Shavani Sewpaul – The picture of strength and confidence

Shavani Sewpaul is on top of her game as a poised, self-assured woman, upholding positive life values and pursuing a career to be proud of.

The 39-year-old was born and raised in Suryaville, Lennoxton, where she and her brother made lifelong memories and friends they hold dear. “We were about 15 children around the neighbourhood who were always together. We would give or parents grey hairs with the mischief we got up to every day,” she said with a laugh.

Shavani’s her first job was as a teacher at a pre-school. She later moved to Durban and studied public relations, before venturing into the world of managing casinos for six years.

“I would gladly become a pre-school teacher again in a heartbeat. It was my dream job. Having those children run up to me with so much joy and give me all those hugs, was heart warming,” she said.

Shavani returned to Newcastle to take care of her father when her mother passed away after a long battle with cancer.

For the past nine years, Shavani is the devoted public relations representative at the South African National Blood Service in Newcastle.

“I am honoured to be in this field of work and I carry my job title with pride, knowing I save people’s lives on a daily basis,” she said.

Though she might consider settling down in the future, she said she was happy being a single, independent woman with no ties.

“I believe when I absolutely know I’ve fallen in love and I know for a fact that it will be forever, I might want to get married and start a family,” she said.

She feels blessed with the family she has, especially her parents who taught her valuable life lessons and beliefs she will always treasure.

She regards her brother, Vino Sewpaul, not only her rock, but her hero as well. He taught her that no matter how successful a person is in life, you should never lose your faith, beliefs or forget your roots. Her two nephews, Viyal and Vareek are also the light of her life and she enjoys spending time with them.

“My brother and sister-in-law, Nibha Sewpaul, blessed me with these two amazing beings who bring complete happiness to my life. They also remind me constantly why I do not have children of my own yet,” she laughed.

Shavani regards herself lucky to have a sister-in-law who is always there for her. “If I had a choice in who would be my sister, it would definitely be her, and not many people can say that about their in-laws.

Shavani is proud to say she worked hard to get to where she is, despite life throwing many curves in her way.

“God never puts a challenge in your path that you cannot handle,” she concluded.