Our New Chapters

Four well-known women chat to Stephanie van der Plank about what shapes their lives, from milestone birthdays to new passions...

Food writer and TV chef Sarah Graham, 35, lives in Bryanston with her husband Rob, 34, and their two daughters Sophie, five, and Isla, three.

I’m always brimming with ideas for the next step in my food journey. It’s an inspiring industry to be part of, and I’ve loved working on every aspect, from my blog to the recipe books, and TV series. I’ve got my eye on a new Food Safari destination, which is exciting, and I can’t wait to see if season one bags an award at this year’s SA Film and TV Awards. Hold thumbs!

I try to force myself to appreciate the moment, whether I’m working or just at home with the girls. When we film Food Safari, the schedule can be quite full on, so I need to remind myself to stop and just look up. We’ve shot on the beach in Mozambique, and in the middle of the bush in Zimbabwe, and sometimes it’s worth going off schedule so we can appreciate our spectacular surroundings. Similarly, when I’m at home with Sophie and Isla, I force myself to put my phone away in the afternoons so that the girls have my undivided attention. They grow up so fast; I don’t want to miss a thing.

Filming on location isn’t as glamorous as it sounds. We cart a fully-equipped oven everywhere we go, and sometimes have to lug it over several sand dunes to find the best spot – I’m always worried that the sweat of exertion will show on camera! The weather’s unpredictable, too, and can blow away herbs I’ve just chopped, or melt the sorbet before I’ve plated it. There’s never a dull moment.