Growing up, Linda was deeply inspired by the American legal series L.A. Law, which featured cases that dealt with hot-button issues. While the show ignited her passion for making a difference in people’s lives, she soon realised the rigidity and complexity
of law wasn’t for her. Instead, she went into the marketing field, which allowed her to explore her creativity.
“At the time, marketing aligned with my values, ideals and ambitions,” she says, “and I knew I could connect with people, making marketing the perfect avenue to channel my passion and skills.”
Completely family-oriented, Linda finds immense joy in ensuring the well-being of her family and making her loved ones happy and comfortable. Mum of three sons, Hernus, Henco and Heinrich, Linda laughingly says that she thinks they are the smartest and the coolest. “I just love them to bits,” she smiles, fluffing up a cushion on her couch as the sun streams in, highlighting the beautiful orchid on the table next to her.
She adds that simplifying life and cherishing every moment mean the most to her. “I believe in stopping to smell the roses and appreciating the little things. Quality time with my friends, family and loved ones fills my cup. I prefer not to get bogged down by the small stuff; instead, I aim to dream big when tasked to make a significant difference.” This ethos shines through when Linda’s daughter-in-law pops in to say hi and Linda’s warm smile lights up the room.
When Linda and her husband Henri moved to Mbombela in 1998, she had no idea she would grow to love it as much as she does. She bought a Rent a Candle franchise a year later, running it from home for about five years. Linda then joined Justine Skincare, and within six months was appointed the area’s sales manager. Five years later, she joined the Lowveld Media sales team, and after three weeks was offered the position of marketing manager. This new chapter allowed Linda to immerse herself in a role that aligned perfectly with her passion for community engagement, allowing her to work closely with residents and on community initiatives.
Being a people person, Linda thrived in this environment, spearheading projects such as building a kitchen in a rural area and constructing a labyrinth in the botanical garden. The tangible impact of these efforts on the community was immensely fulfilling for Linda.
“As a brand ambassador, I had the chance to both represent our titles and build strong relationships within the community. This role was a great experience that enriched my understanding of effective communication and community outreach,” she explains. One of the most valuable skills Linda honed while at Lowveld Media was time management. With deadlines constantly looming, she learnt to prioritise tasks efficiently and stay focused. “Organising events and campaigns became one of my favourite tasks, as it combined my love of planning with my desire to make a difference,” she says.
This expertise stood her in good stead for her next venture, the purchase of Sanibonani Dry Cleaners & Cleaning Supplies. As a business owner, Linda is constantly learning and growing, striving to make a positive impact in the community. “The role involves everything from strategic planning to day-to-day operations,” she explains. “I work closely with my team to ensure our business runs smoothly, and I take pride in the service we provide. Being involved in the local business community allows me to build relationships, create opportunities and contribute to the local economy. It’s a role that constantly challenges me and helps me grow, both personally and professionally,” she smiles.
I can contribute to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of our country, work that I find incredibly fulfilling as I know I am making a tangible impact
On the topic of community involvement, Linda says the work she does with the SANParks Honorary Rangers is her ‘heart project’. It involves raising funds to contribute to various conservation, tourism and environmental education needs within the Kruger National Park. One of the fundraising initiatives she started is the Kruger Concert for Conservation, an exclusive open-air concert series hosted in unique venues within the Kruger National Park. “This concept is my brainchild,” smiles Linda. “Held under the African night sky, the concerts offer patrons an exquisite Kruger experience while they enjoy world-class music. It’s a unique experience that cannot be bought or booked anywhere else. It’s a hands-on role in which I can contribute to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of our country, work that I find incredibly fulfilling as I know I am making a tangible impact, for a good cause.
“The opportunity to serve is an honour and speaks to my core values. I believe in giving back and making a difference wherever I can. Whether it’s volunteering at local events, supporting community projects or simply helping a neighbour in need, these acts of service make me feel good and build my character. It’s important to me to be a role model for my family and show them the importance of kindness and community involvement.”
Linda and Henri love nothing more than packing their trailer and heading off into the great unknown. Seasoned travellers, they love exploring new places, often going away with the
whole family.
“We love Africa and often visit Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho and eSwatini,” enthuses Linda. “We recently visited Namibia, and my parents joined us. Namibia’s extreme landscapes are spectacular, which is why we love visiting it. The diverse and breathtaking scenery, from vast deserts to rugged coastlines, provides unforgettable experiences and memories for our family. It is one of the most awe-inspiring places in the world.”
A few other places Linda has loved are Singapore and Thailand, where she and Henri honeymooned, Mauritius, Greece, India, Turkey and Dubai. “For my 40th birthday, we went to Corsica, and for my 50th birthday, we planned a Le Boat trip in the south of France,
but because of Covid in 2020, we postponed it till 2022. We then visited France, Monaco and Spain, and the greatest privilege was doing it with the whole family.
For Henri’s 50th birthday, we climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, and visited the Serengeti in Tanzania. Henri and I also enjoy exploring places on our own, setting our itinerary and pace. This allows us to spend quality time together, fully immerse ourselves in the experience and get to know each other. Whether travelling as a family or just the two of us, we cherish these moments and the adventures they bring. I believe life is about creating beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.”
When not adventuring all over the world, Linda loves to relax by connecting with nature and unwinding in serene environments. She loves spending time in the bush, especially at Sabie Park, their secret hideaway bordering the Kruger. “It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge,” she enthuses.
If I could live anywhere in the world, I would always choose to stay in the Lowveld. I love Nelspruit; it’s close to the Kruger National Park, a place I adore
“And I enjoy reading, which allows me to escape into different worlds and broaden my horizons. I also treasure the quiet moments at home, sitting on the stoep with my hubby, simply enjoying each other’s company. If I could live anywhere in the world, I would always choose to stay in the Lowveld. I love Nelspruit; it’s close to the Kruger National Park, a place I adore. The proximity to such a magnificent natural reserve allows me to indulge in my passion for nature and the bush, making it the perfect location for me to call home.”
On so many levels, the world is changing, and while these changes bring both positive and negative aspects, Linda believes it is essential to focus on the positives and how we can navigate through the negatives. “My strength and the most important aspect of my life is undoubtedly my family, and also my faith,” Linda says. “My husband and our beautiful, talented boys, along with their wonderful wives, are at the centre of my heart. Spending time with them and witnessing the incredible men they have grown into brings me immense happiness. It’s not just about being together, but truly cherishing the moments we share.”
I can’t wait to begin this new adventure, cherishing every experience and memory we’ll create along the way
Looking ahead, Linda’s focus is less on career ambitions and more on enjoying the next chapter of her life. Travel is definitely on the horizon; she and Henri are planning to buy a camper and tour Europe, starting in Italy. “I can’t wait to begin this new adventure, cherishing every experience and memory we’ll create along the way.”
Fundamentally, Linda understands that maintaining a good balance in life is crucial, and striving for growth while ensuring peace in daily living is what makes us thrive, both as individuals and within a family unit. “This harmony is the foundation of happiness and success,” she says.
