“The great danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” –Michelangelo
Today is New Year’s Day and with that comes new hopes, new opportunities and new goals. Check out my life’s purpose and 2026 Goals below:
My Life’s Purposes
Fill the world with kindness and love
Make a difference – level the playing field for people who were born with the cards stacked against them
Change perceptions about differently-abled people
2026 Goals
Continue to be kind, honest, grateful, loyal (to those who deserve it) and filled with wonderment
Organize Morgan’s Breath of Life Birthday Party
Visit Breath of Life as often as possible and make a monthly contribution
Organize all the birthday cakes for the kids at Breath of Life this year
Raise R35 000+ for Breath of Life in honour of my birthday
Buy 10-20 soft toys so that i have enough for every goodbye and birthday at Breath of Life for the year
Call the twins weekly (when they have access to a phone) and take them on an outing at least twice this year
Organize a birthday cake for the twins
Buy groceries for the house at least four times a year
Choose people who choose me and support friends who understand there’s a heart attached to the helping hand and prioritize the relationship – with time and effort(showing up in real-life)
Enjoy Australia (if we go)
Focus on wellness – continue to eat well, continue to get sunlight, continue to be grateful, start exercising, get regular dental cleanings, prioritize sleep
Enjoy little things – create perfect momentsdaily
Have more fun – maybe continue going to the beach, take a pottery class…something
“Make measurable progress in reasonable time.” – Jim Rohn
As we near the end of 2025 it is again time to review the goals I set at the beginning of the year
My 2025 Life Purposes and Goals in Review
My Life’s Purposes
Fill the world with kindness and love [did my best]
Make a difference – level the playing field for people who were born with the cards stacked against them [did my best]
Change perceptions about differently-abled people [did my best]
2025 Goals in Review
Continue to be kind, honest, generous, grateful, loyal and filled with wonderment
Every day be the best SuperSidekick to Superhero Catherine Constantinides (she’s the best, most hardworking real-life Superhero I’ve ever met she totally deserves me forever and no matter what else I’m doing in life I will always be here for her)
Maintain and strengthen my deep friendship with Michelle Rielly
Raise at least R34 000 for Breath of Life
Become financially independent – earn more than enough to pay for my own medical aid and groceries ( Update: I bought groceries for the house once or twice this year – it’s a start )
Have more fun – maybe take up art of some kind or simply going to the beach more often ( Update: I spent more time at the beach this year of which I’m proud)
Focus on wellness – pray every day, have good diet, exercise, good sleep, gratitude and get more sun (Update: I need to work on regular prayer, sleep and exercise everything else is good )
See Michelle Rielly in real-life again – I miss her lots
Choose people who choose me – no more chasing people (Update: this is still a work in progress)
Visit Paternoster (Update: the only chance to get there was in April during my brothers graduation but it was still an hour away so didn’t get there)
Visit Europe – go to Paris and Rome – and go paragliding in Switzerland (Update: I made it to Rome – it was stunning)
Go whale-watching with Southern Cross Cruises in October ( Update: I saw whales with Southern Cross Cruises on October 11th – it was awesome)
Stay at Crawfords Beach Lodge (Update: after what we spent on Rome I didn’t have the heart to ask my family for a stay 40kms away but maybe next year)
Read 24-48 books (Update: by December I was on book number 8)
Do 34 or more good deeds – one of the deeds must be having one or more trees planted (Update 1: Visions of Change helped me plant 5 trees) (Update 2:I wasn’t counting my good deeds but I’m pretty sure I covered 34)
“By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third, by experience, which is the bitterest.” — Confucius
As I reflect on 2025, I’ve been thinking about the parts of the year that shaped me most. Here are the four things I’m proudest of:
1. I showed up at Breath of Life — and raised over R50 000. I visited often, I stayed present, and I did the work from the heart. This remains one of the most meaningful parts of my year.
2. I significantly reduced my sugar intake. Last year I had a KitKat almost every day; this year I was eating veggies for breakfast. A small change that made a big difference in how I feel.
3. I created more balance in my life. In 2024 I was consumed by “impact at all costs.” This year, I learned you can still serve with intensity and go to the beach more. That balance is growth.
4. I finally made it to Italy and Spain. I saw the Colosseum, the Vatican, and so many beautiful places — a dream made possible by my family who funded the trip. I’m still grateful
Cakes by Cakes and Sprinkles East London for the kids at Breath of Life
The small things are the big things in disguise.
As I reflect on 2025, I find myself filled with gratitude to everyone but most especially to Cakes and Sprinkles East London who worked with me to create custom birthday cakes for the babies at Breath of Life .
Thank you Cakes and Sprinkles East London for infusing my love for each baby into a cake in the form of a story – you’re a small business that touched my soul in a big way, I’m eternally grateful for the magic you brought to Breath of Life this year. Thank you!!
The Miss Earth South Africa is a leadership and empowerment programme that was established 22 years ago to help educate, inspire and galvanize change in communities that help to benefit both People and Planet.
Recently announced as the new Miss Earth South Africa Winner for 2025, Jenique Botha; who is completing her LLB Law at the North-West University; is set for Manila, Philippines compliments of Cathay Pacific Airlines and the Miss Earth South Africa Organization.
Cathay Pacific has been named one of the ‘Top 3 Best Airlines’ in the world at the World Airline Awards by SKYTRAX and it’s no wonder that they are the preferred carrier and airline partner for this year. Over the past two decades, Catherine Constantinides and Ella Bella Leite have been working in the environmental and sustainability arena, educating and inspiring young people to think differently and use the Earth’s resources in better ways so as to benefit both people and planet.
Jenique Botha has been involved with several different projects since she started her Miss Earth journey in May of this year working with abandoned animals, participating in elephant conservation and statistical data capturing in Limpopo with the Elephants Alive Organization, while planting trees as part of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment DFFE 1Million Tree Campaign.
The international travel will bring South Africa together with participants from 100 countries across the globe who will compete for the title of Miss Earth International, while sharing the environmental challenges faced by each country.
Jenique has been supported by the Miss Earth South Africa organization and they have together with Skin Renewal SA, Samsonite SA, Newsclip, New Romantics Couture, the Dutchess Signature Designs, ensured that all her green and glam needs are met. This is an opportunity to thank the team that have worked with our queen to prepare her for this next chapter; Vince & Reg Bespoke Hair Design, and The Nail Café in Bedfordview have all supported and prepared Jenique for the International trip, where she will represent South Africa with pride and a passion for our beautiful environment and wildlife.
South Africa wishes her well on this adventure and will follow and support her, on her @missearth_sa journey.
Thabo Eco Hotel was a buzz as a beautiful day was enjoyed celebrating sustainability, leadership, beauty and empowerment. The Miss Earth South Africa organization, have worked on the ground in communities for the past 22 years. The new winners for 2025, who will continue the greening work for the next year, have been announced.
Miss Earth South Africa 2025 is Ekurhuleni’s Jenique Botha, flanked by her 1st Runner Up: Brilliant Dzavana from Tzaneen, Limpopo, 2nd Runner Up: Tshiamo Morare from Atteridgeville, Tshwane and Mpho Moleya from Midrand was announced as the 3rd Runner Up.
Jenique Botha, is a 22 year old, student at the North West University studying her LLB and is a BCom Law graduate. “I am honoured to carry this prestigious title and look forward to championing the organisations sustainability and climate programmes as we continue to charter a new chapter together.” Botha said.
Hosted by Thaba Eco Hotel, a venue which is synonymous with sustainable living, this was the perfect venue to match a perfect Spring day in the heart of the city. Together with the support from sponsors and partners; Skin Renewal SA, Cathay Pacific, Samsonite, Brand South Africa, Newsclip, and 321 Technical Systems, these environmental ambassadors are chosen to represent our country after having proved themselves worthy of such a prestigious title through their school projects, educational workshops, community outreach work and vegetable garden initiatives.
“This title does not come without responsibility and these young ladies are committed to serving people and planet. It is an opportunity for these young women to become active participants in protecting and preserving our planet. We need passionate people to take on this fight for our planet and for our home.” Says Ella Bella Leite: Educational Director.
With her sponsored flight from Cathay Pacific the winner will represent South Africa at the international Miss Earth in the Philippines this November, where she will showcase the work done here in South Africa, in order to combat climate change, food insecurity, ocean and river health, waste management and bring attention to recycling and waste in schools. The international Miss Earth is the third largest beauty pageant in the world, Miss Earth focuses on “Beauty with a Cause,” inspiring global environmental consciousness and climate advocacy.
Catherine Constantinides, Executive Director of the programme, shared her thoughts on the significance of the moment, saying; “This programme proves that sustainability and women’s empowerment are two sides of the same coin. When young women lead environmental change, communities shift, and narratives evolve. Empowered women are not only changemakers—they are earth-shakers.”
This year’s winner receives an awesome prize package, which includes a set of luggage from Samsonite, a longtime partner of the programme, a handbag and shoes from Europa Art, David Green Eyewear, Silver Lining Gumboots for all her clean ups and plantings, premium skincare treatments from Skin Renewal SA for the year of her reign and quality skincare products from Lamelle South Africa, professional styling and haircare products from Lanza professional healing haircare, Gifts from Bio Sculpture, Clothing from Nicci Boutique, Jeans from Lee Cooper SA, A fully paid International trip, Evening Dresses sponsored by New Romantics, and a national costume designed by The Duchess. Special thanks go to Kryolan Professional Make-Up and Lanza Professional Healing haircare who took care of the finalists.
Reuben Louw, CEO of Thaba Eco Hotel, expressed pride in hosting this year’s announcement, “Thaba Eco Hotel was the perfect choice for this celebration. From our solar farms to water conservation and advanced waste management systems, sustainability is not just a value—it’s a way of life here. I’ve always admired Catherine Constantinides and Ella Bella Leite for the incredible work they’ve done for the environment, for communities, and for empowering women over the past 22 years. We are proud partners of the Miss Earth South Africa Announcement for 2025.”
Together, with these partners and the powerful young women who take part in the programme each year, the Miss Earth South Africa continues to drive a message of hope, action, and sustainable change—one empowered woman at a time.
Follow @MissEarth_SA on socials and follow the journey to the international Miss Earth in the Philippines.
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others
On this World Humanitarian Day I reflect on the journey I’ve been on since I turned 18, first with international organizations and for the past 8 years with Breath of Life, none of it has been easy but all of it has been worth it. Thank you so much to each and everyone of you that has been on this journey with me -I am me BECAUSE YOU BELIEVED IN ME!
Advice for aspiring humanitarians
1. Pick an issue your heart breaks for
2. If you ask you won’t receive – you have to tell a story with feeling
3. It will be hard, remember your why and don’t quit
In line with the theme for Mandela Day, “It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity,” Merchants of Light NPO, Virgin Active Bedfordview and Kit Kat Cash and Carry Benoni and Toyota Knights, went out to share their Mandela Day with a community in Primrose Germiston.
Merchants of Light, believe that small acts of kindness, a simple bowl of food, a warm blanket, or a gesture of love, can create bonds within a community and ultimately in our nation. They would like to thank the team from the Virgin Active Bedfordview and Kit Kat Cash and Carry who supported this initiative. One hundred and fifty grocery hampers were distributed; each parcel caters for a family of four. A loaf of bread and a hot meal was served to 250 people, who also received bags of oranges, clothing and blankets.
Outreach programmes are done on a continuous basis. The success of this programme rests on the support and partnering with like minded business entities, who believe that we can make a difference. During the week of Mandela Day, Merchants of Light managed to feed 2410 people and distribute 400 grocery hampers with Kit Kat Cash and Carry. This activation spread across Germiston, Primrose and Kensington, Southern Suburbs of Rosettenville and Turfontein, Kliptown and Pimville Soweto. Merchants of Light, have several active projects that run throughout the year, Weekly feeding schemes, school shoe and stationery drives, along with disaster management and relief. From packing of toiletries, mattresses, and blankets for victims of floods and fires, to cooking or dishing up bowls of hope and light. If you are able to support this initiative please contact @theMerchantsOfLight or message 082 5050 664
Cathay Pacific joins Miss Earth SA on World Environment Day
The Miss Earth South Africa leads tree planting and vegetable garden project at Zodiac Primary School in Lenasia in Celebration of World Environment Day last week.
The special initiative focused on the planting of trees and the creation of a sustainable vegetable garden on the school grounds. More than just a greening activity, this project aimed to inspire and educate the young minds of the school—particularly the Grade 3 learners—on the importance of environmental stewardship, food security, and collective action.
The Grade 3 learners managed to transform a corner of the school that was baren and forgotten and turned it into a beacon of hope and sustainability through collaborative efforts led by the partners of the Miss Earth South Africa, such as Cathay Pacific, Skin Renewal SA, Samsonite, 9Five Fertilizers, Wild Route, 3Sixty Compost and the Toyota Knights.
“Our goal is to plant more than just trees and vegetables; we’re planting seeds of hope, knowledge, and responsibility,” said Ella Bella Leite, Director of Miss Earth South Africa Leadership and Empowerment Programme. “Together with our partners, we’re showing learners what it means to care for the earth and for each other. It’s about People and Planet. This garden is an example of how environmental action and social impact go together, reminding us of all that by investing in the youth and their home, we are able to nurture a better future for everyone.”
The newly established vegetable garden will be integrated into the school’s feeding scheme, directly contributing to nutritious meals for learners and reinforcing the school’s role as a safe, supportive space for children to grow, both academically and physically. This is a step forward in tackling food insecurity in the community – one garden at a time.
The day was filled with energy, education, and purpose, as learners got their hands dirty alongside volunteers and representatives from each partner organisation. With tools in hand and hearts full of excitement, the children were taught how to care for their new garden, gaining practical skills that will last a lifetime.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. ” – Margaret Mead
Yesterday at midnight my #Nisha34 birthday campaign for Breath of Life officially closed thank you so much to everyone who helped – the gross amount is R57 386 while the net amount (after payment portal fees) is R54 455. The R54 455 will be paid out to Breath of Life by Backabuddy within a week and Breath of Life will use the money to buy diapers and other baby essentials as well as to cover the salaries of the carers who look after the babies and to cover the running expenses of the house (electricity, water, etc). Thank so much to everyone who gave of themselves and their resources to help make my birthday wish of making a difference at Breath of Life come true. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
