How We Give Back

From cooking to raise money for charity to being an understanding friend, four famous women reveal acts of kindness, both big and small

Actress AMRAIN ISMAIL- ESSOP, 42, lives in Cape Town’s southern suburbs with her nine-year-old daughter.

I live by the saying that you can never step into the same river twice – both you and the river will be different. It’s about constant change, about how every day brings the possibility of a new beginning with it, about doing things differently, and constantly learning about yourself and the world around you. I don’t believe in the idea of mistakes or regret, but rather that every experience is a chance to learn.

I’ve come to realise that feeling comfortable in my skin is an ongoing process, and that it’s okay if I don’t have my ducks in a row all the time.

Two years ago, I had a very different outlook. There’s a myth in society that ‘life begins at 40’ and that’s when everything should fall into place. When I hit that milestone birthday, I expected to feel fabulous, but I soon realised that reality doesn’t always meet our expectations. I was upset at first, because I still felt a bit unsure of myself, but I decided to stop trying to measure up to an ideal and rather be happy in my own skin. That’s when the fun started!

Having my daughter is the best thing in my life.

She’s so wise for a nine-year old; she keeps me grounded. This year, she saved up to buy a sewing machine and we’ve been having fun creating bits and bobs together. Those simple moments are the ones I cherish most. Although we didn’t stay together, her dad and I are committed to giving her the best life – he’s a very good dad.

It’s easy to think, “Will my time really make a difference?” and become overwhelmed by the idea of giving back, but everyone can contribute.