Monique, The 40 Over 40 Women’s Portrait Campaign

Monique, 50 

I have been described by my friends and family as…

Consistent, ambitious, thoughtful, and always busy!

My best qualities are…

Honesty and straightforwardness.

I am most proud of…

Living my dream and making things happen – nothing is a coincidence.

My favourite quotes…

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” — Dr. Seuss

What advice would I give my 20-year-old self…

Don’t let anyone intimidate you! Dare to be strong, dare to question, dare to live!

We all experience many lifetimes in this one life. What did you find were the most poignant changes as you entered your 40s?

It’s never too late to go to University. I completed my master’s degree at 50!

Thoughts on aging and a dream I still have…

I will never stop dreaming and living my dreams.

Age, for me, is not about slowing down or giving up, it’s about change, contemplation, and living.

 

Monique and I have been friends since we were 8 years old! It was so special to photograph her for The 40 Over 40 Women’s Portrait Campaign.

She lives in Sweden, and it was great having her visit Cape Town a few months ago.  And perfect timing to have her here for the campaign and a double celebration of her 50th birthday year.

We had such a good laugh when Zazi, my neighbor Jo’s cat, kept jumping into the shot.  I think it’s time I get a new cat!

Monique has this beautiful energy and has an amazing way of bringing people together.  She is always the life and soul of a party or family gathering and she lives life to the absolute fullest.

When she’s in Cape Town, I always get to see more of my city, as we are always venturing out to try a new restaurant or new place.

Before Covid, I used to fly to Sweden at least twice a year to spend time with her and her children (my godchildren).  And I can’t wait to be back there in a few weeks time!