Training and Human Resources Manager, The Clothing Bank, South Africa

"I would like to again express my thanks for this opportunity. I think the best way to explain the development which has occurred for me is to use my metaphor for growth, the Blossoming Baobab Tree. Before I was this harried little engine lugging tons of baggage (a lot of it not even mine!) across the countryside of my life. Some of the baggage was so old that I couldn’t even remember why it was in the carriage. I was so busy ‘doing’ that I didn’t even stop to refuel at times and was constantly racing for the goal and the reward/recognition at the end. Only there was no end and sometimes no recognition. I felt betrayed, disappointed and had lots of self-doubt. As the Blossoming Baobab Tree I have found renewed vision and certainty of who I am and what I have to offer. I have found this ‘new way’ so much better – less stressful, lest frenetic. I have learnt to assess where I am, what I am able to do and what I need. It has changed the way I do things – more for my own contentment and sense of achievement, and less to please others. It has also changed the way others view me and interact with me. So as I enter this new phase of development, this 44-year-old Blossoming Baobab Tree is surveying her domain, checking the shift in the winds and preparing to bear fruit – when she is ready! Lol!"