Fueling life with purpose, passion, wellness

“This month is a gentle reminder to be kind to ourselves. To pause, reflect, and celebrate the strength it takes to keep going, especially when no one is watching.”

It’s a message that resonates deeply with Gule-Burley, who has spent her life redefining success on her own terms. Her impressive CV spans radio, business, and now wellness, but the path to fulfilment didn’t come without challenges.

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The idea for the DurbaNite Race – a community-centred wellness event that encourages people to literally take the first step toward better health – was born from her own transformation.

“I started running at 35 with the goal of finishing Comrades. I didn’t think I could. But six races later, running had become a part of who I am, not just for fitness, but for mental strength and discipline. I realised others needed a space like this too.”

Held once a month, the DurbaNite Race has grown into a symbol of social unity and wellness.

“It’s more than just a race. It’s after-work, it’s about making friends and spending time with family. It’s also about consistency as most races happen once a year. This is every month.”

Before her running shoes hit the tar, Gule-Burley made her mark in boardrooms and broadcasting studios. Early in her career, she worked at SAA – at a time when the corporate world was still steeped in patriarchy and tradition.

“I walked into a workspace where the old South African flag still hung. It was intimidating but my father’s advice stuck with me: ‘These men know things you don’t – learn from them. They may not have a degree like you but they have worked there longer than you.’ That changed everything.”

Even with success, she never sought to blend in. “I never wanted to be one of the guys. I love being a woman – gentle, but not to be mistaken for weak. You don’t have to lose who you are to lead.”

While Gule-Burley has become a mentor to many, she still draws strength from the women who shaped her.
“My mom is my biggest role model. She raised five children alone before she met my dad, who accepted us all. She moved mountains for us. Her strength taught me to be kind and gentle – but also fierce when necessary.”
She credits media figures like Felicia Mabuza-Suttle, radio leader Trish Taylor, and her own siblings for teaching her the value of community, resilience, and giving back.

Asked how she manages the juggle of work, wellness, and personal life, Gule-Burley doesn’t mince her words.
“Fear is natural, but don’t let it stop you. Failure is part of the process. We spend too much time worrying about people who don’t like us. Rather use that time to grow. You can’t please everyone, and you don’t need to.”
Her own turning point came at the finish line of her first Comrades Marathon – in 11 hours, 59 minutes, and 3 seconds.

“I nearly gave up. I was crying, praying. But I pushed. And when I crossed that line, I knew nothing would ever scare me again.”

It was the same mindset that gave her the courage to launch Vuma FM, and later create a programme to empower women with entrepreneurial skills.

“Everybody has to run Comrades at least once in their lives – it changes you. Every time I am faced with a mammoth task, I remind myself that I completed the Comrades Marathon – The Ultimate Human Race – therefore I can do anything,” she said.

“My advice to the young women rising up is to trust yourself. Be honest and don’t be afraid to ask for help. A ‘no’ never killed anyone. And to the more established women – see people’s potential and give them a chance.”

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