Beauty, brains and a whole lot of (spiritual) sauce, Abby Plaatjes is a South African media personality/entrepreneur who currently lives and works in Tanzania where she co-hosts on Choice FM. Abby, born in Durban, South Africa has a distinct personality which isn’t just infectious, but filled with a lot of light and energy and is sure to draw you in and keep you intrigued. Her wealth of experience having been in the entertainment industry for over 12 years is admirable and she is still going strong, being her best self and sharing her light. Abby is currently the host of E! Africa’s E! VIP Series. We caught up with her for a brief Q & A session. Read and enjoy!
Whatever you choose to do, never sacrifice your authenticity for fame.
Just a girl who grew up to realise her God given purpose in this world and is trying to fulfill it to the best of her ability.
What do you consider your greatest achievement in life?Achievements is growth we go through to take us deeper and further to living a truly authentic life. Finding God and being mother to my two children are by far at the top of my list.
What is your most treasured possession ?
My Bible and journals. I’ve been writing since I was a teen and have found such a soothing outlet in jotting down my dreams, thoughts and plans. My Bible and at least one journal travels with me wherever I go.
Have you always wanted to be a media personality?I’ve always wanted to work in media and entertainment. Since I can remember I was obsessed with television and old Hollywood especially. Why… I’m not so sure but it was a burning desire of mine since I was very little.. and as we all know, when your heart yearns for something so deeply, you need to fulfill it.
Over the years I’ve learned to constantly work on my craft and always strive to speak words of encouragement, love and empowerment. My initial reason for wanting to have this as a career has changed drastically in the last couple of years and I’m only now able to confidently say I’m doing it for the right reasons.
What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry?
Be true to yourself. Be good at what you do whether it’s music, acting, production or design. Whatever you choose to do, never sacrifice your authenticity for fame. This is not a popular formula because it will take you much longer to achieve your goals, but when you eventually do, you will be able to hold your head high. This industry is cut throat. There’s no maybes. Either you are good or you are not. So work on your craft. Be the best at what you do.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
My brother taught me to treat everyone I meet in life, the same. With kindness and respect. Whether they sweeping streets or sitting on a thrown, everyone deserves kindness. When your energy is authentically positive towards people, they feel it and it is reciprocal.
Which living woman inspires you and why?
Oprah Winfrey. Many of my female icons have passed, Mother Theresa, Princess Diana, Maya Angelou.. but Oprah still carries the torch for women who have lived a tough life and used their testimonials to put a bandage on the world and help heal a very confused generation. I can only pray that this path God has paved for me will leave a great legacy for generations to come.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
The travelling. It’s gives me an instant rush knowing I’m off to a new place with new adventures. Maybe you wanted me to mention a particular person that I’ve met but truth be told, people are very similar to each other, however, the world is always brand new.
If you had to live in a country you’ve never been to before for three months, where would it be?
Oh wow! Uhmmm so many! But probably Cuba!
What is your favourite Quote?
“I’ve found the paradox that when you love until it hurts, there is no more pain, only, more love.” Mother Theresa
Time travel or teleportation?
Both!
What would you like to be remembered for?
That I contributed positively in changing the world for the better by fulfilling my God given purpose. That many men and women benefited from my example of achieving excellence with integrity, humility and prayer and loads of joy! And of course, being the best mom I could possibly be to my babies and having a heart that loved unconditionally.
Instagram – AbbyPlaatjes