I could never have dreamed the life I lead. Given where I started, it's remarkable to me the constant adventure that my life has become.

Of course I'm totally biased, but I think my mom is an amazing educator. She continues to work tirelessly for the kids in her classes, year after year - despite the innumerable obstacles she faces. She is a huge inspiration to me.

Living here in North America - I have been Americanized. When I go back home now, there are things that I have far less tolerance for in South Africa. We've come such a long way in terms of race relations and the economy as well as people's willingness to move on. There are still a lot of things that are frustrating about being in South Africa.

No matter what is going on around or within you, everything at some point must change. It's harder to accept when things are great - and a source of strength when change is what you need. Either way, it reminds me to try my best to be fully present in every moment.

Anything is possible - even the most far-fetched idea can come to being through a series of seemingly small decisions and actions.

Id love a werebear. But I guess you need that seductive element of danger. And though bears can be dangerous, when you say werebear it just sounds kind of cuddly. Probably has a rainbow on his belly.

Celebrate yourself. Follow your passions and eccentricities, because they are yours alone. You are unique! If everyone did that, I'm pretty sure there would be world peace.