Page 16 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 8 2024

HOME FRONT
SPO TLIGHT ON corde to Zimbabwe, offering an unforgetta-
LAURINDA BOW WINTER IN
ble experience to those on board. But it’s
not the grandeur of these events that she
dwells on; instead, Laurinda speaks with
A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE AND INSPIRATION THE
more pride about the personal connections
she’s made along the way and the oppor-
PILANES-
tunities to learn from others. “I’ve always
sought out the paths less travelled, not for
the thrill, but for the chance to create mean-
ingful experiences.”
FACING ADVERSITY WITH GRACE
AND RESILIENCE
In 2008, Laurinda faced one of her greatest
challenges—a cancer diagnosis that doc-
tors said would leave her with only a few
months to live. But Laurinda’s response
was anything but typical. “I never saw it as
the end,” she says, her eyes shining with
determination. “Instead, I asked myself,
‘What am I supposed to learn from this?’
Every challenge is an opportunity to grow,
and I focused on the positives.”

Sixteen years later, Laurinda’s story is not
one of survival but of thriving. Her battle
with cancer became a catalyst for deeper
reflection and a renewed commitment to
making the most of every moment. “I’ve
never had time for self-pity,” she explains.
“Life is too precious to waste on what could
have been. I believe in using every setback
as a stepping stone to something greater.”
I had the privilege of sitting down A HEART FOR COMMUNITY

with Laurinda Bow, The Paddocks AND GIVING
Laurinda’s involvement with The
representative for the BDA. Paddocks and the BDA is a natural
extension of her lifelong commit-
Laurinda’s story is a ment to the community. She has
always believed in the power of
testament to the quiet connection, whether through
organising local projects or
strength that lies within, simply being a supportive
presence for those around her.
which has carried her “Community is at the heart
of everything I do,” she says.
through life’s challenges “It’s about creating a space
where everyone feels valued and
and fueled her passion for supported.”
giving back to the community. Her acts of kindness are often small,

quiet gestures—buying groceries for a
struggling neighbour or offering encourage-
ment to someone having a tough day. “I
A FOUNDATION OF STRENGTH AND there for them, to ensure they had the sup- don’t do it for recognition,” Laurinda insists.
COMMUNITY port they needed to thrive,” she reflects. Her “It’s about making a genuine difference,
Laurinda’s journey began in South Africa, dedication paid off, with her son becoming even if it’s just for one person.”
rooted in the rich traditions of her Portu- head boy at school and achieving numerous
guese and Italian heritage. Her parents, accolades—a reflection of the values she LOOKING AHEAD WITH HOPE AND
who arrived in South Africa with nothing instilled in them. DETERMINATION
but hope and determination, taught her the Despite all she has achieved, Laurinda
value of hard work and community. “My par- A LIFE RICH IN EXPERIENCE AND remains focused on the future and is eager
ents were my greatest inspiration,” Laurinda ADVENTURE to continue her work in cultural exchange
shares, her voice filled with warmth. “They Laurinda’s love for exploration led her to and tourism. She dreams of bringing more
built their lives from the ground up and establish Bow International, a company people to experience the unique beauty and
always reminded me of the importance of dedicated to showcasing the beauty of diversity of South Africa. “There’s so much
staying connected to our community.” South Africa to the world and providing more I want to do,” she says with quiet con-
enriching travel experiences abroad. “Travel fidence. “I’m excited for what’s to come.”
From a young age, Laurinda excelled in has always been more than just seeing new Laurinda Bow’s journey is a powerful
sports—a passion that taught her discipline, places,” she says. “It’s about connecting reminder that true strength lies not in grand
perseverance, and the importance of team- with people, understanding different cul- gestures but in the quiet, consistent actions
work. These qualities would later guide her tures, and bringing those experiences back that build a life of purpose and meaning. As
through some of life’s toughest moments. home.” we celebrate the end of Women’s Month,
After the heartbreaking loss of her husband her story encourages us all to embrace
over 30 years ago, Laurinda devoted herself Laurinda’s most remarkable achievement resilience, find joy in the journey, and make
to raising her two sons. “I wanted to be was organising a trip that brought the Con- a positive impact wherever we can.

14 DPL issue 8 2024
16 DPL issue 1 2024