Cindy, 50 (in October) – The 50 Over 50 Women’s Portrait Campaign

 

Cindy, 50 (almost)

 

Where are you from, and where do you currently live?

Cape Town, South Africa and currently living in Jakarta, Indonesia

 

If your friends were to describe you, what would they say?

Gregarious, Passionate, Fun, Loyal, Caring

 

What is your favourite quote or saying?

“Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get” (Forrest Gump).

 

What would you say you are most proud of?

Becoming a mother of two beautiful children who immigrated to New Zealand with their dad when they were teenagers.

I am proud of how they adapted themselves to a new country and for all they have achieved over the past 11 years.

I am also proud of how I picked myself up after two divorces.

My first marriage I feel now like I married my “best friend”.  I was young and as many young marriages do we grew apart.  My second marriage unbeknown to me, turned out to be terrible… a true con artist.

He started off charming, however after a while it became obvious he was lying from the beginning of our relationship. This not only hurt me but also my family and friends.

I was devastated and had no option but to get divorced. I lost nearly everything I had including our business, home, car, etc., and at the age of 38 I had no option but to move back into my parent’s home.

I was an emotional wreck.  There were times when I felt completely hopeless.  Due to my state of mind, I was often not able to be there when my children needed my support as well as put my family through many difficult times.

I knew I needed to make some positive changes and decisions in my life which I’m proud to say “I did!”  One was to have a fresh start and get away from the negative influences that were surrounding me.

So I completed a series of yachting courses and took a position as a Sole Stewardess on luxury yachts in both the South of France and Florida.

A couple years later I received a job offer in Bali, Indonesia selling property.  After a few years of success, I was offered a position as the Operations Manager and Wedding planner for an Australian-owned top resort in Bali.

While working in Bali, I often had to travel to Singapore to renew my Indonesian Visa. During one of my visa trips “life threw me a box of chocolates”…

I met a caring and considerate man who made me laugh so hard my stomach ached.  I knew instantly he was the one!!! We had a long-distance relationship for a year. I moved from Bali to Singapore and in 2019 we were married.

My husband is from the USA and his job requires that we move locations every 3 to 5 years. We are currently residing in Jakarta awaiting our next assignment.

I am so proud of where I am today and for not giving up!!! I love my life. Thanks to my loving and supportive husband we get to travel and explore new places as well as see our family and children every year.

 

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be confident and set healthy boundaries… people will love and respect you more.

Don’t ever judge or compare yourself to others.  Follow your OWN dreams and passion in life because that is what will lead you to your ultimate happiness!!!

Choose your friends wisely as they usually end as a reflection of yourself.

Knowledge is power… no matter how far you go in life, don’t ever forget where you come from and always stay grounded and humble.

The world is your oyster… if life knocks you down, don’t ever give up!!!

Love and respect your family. You only have one.  Every day is a Blessing and a Gift that should never be taken for granted!!!

 

What is a goal or dream you still wish to accomplish?

My dream would be to own properties in the USA and in South Africa to use during our retirement with family at each location.

My goal is to complete my book (autobiography/memoir) called “Freedom to Fly” for my children and future grandchildren one day.

 

What are your thoughts on ageing?

I enjoy wine so I love the saying “Like a fine wine we get better with age”

When I see my 50s approaching I see a beautiful woman who has grown into a strong, honorable, and determined person who knows what she wants. I adapt to life a lot easier and carry less stress on my shoulders.

Because I have experienced what most people go through in a lifetime, I am no longer afraid of change and open to accepting challenges that come my way.

Due to the unexpected death of my dad when I was 5 years old (and my brother who was only 10 weeks old) family has always been important to me.

Fortunately, I have an amazing mom and wonderful stepdad (and step-sister) who has been a part of my life since I was 10 years old.

I am grateful for the endless support my parents have given my children and I. Not to mention all the exciting adventures we’ve had over the years.  I appreciate them immensely and cherish every moment we have together.

Life is short: “Forgive quickly, kiss slowly, love truly, laugh uncontrollably and never regret anything that makes you smile”.

What did you enjoy most about The 50 Over 50 Women’s Portrait Campaign? And how did the experience leave you feeling?