MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Known for her work at the non-profit Skipper Foundation, Elfie Holden has lived in Mossel Bay for just over two decades, focusing on making a positive impact on others through her love for people and the ocean.
Tell us a little about yourself - who are you and what do you do?
I am Elfie Holden, and I have the privilege of introducing people from all walks of life to the joy of sailing through my work with the Skipper Foundation. By blending my love for people with my passion for the ocean, I use sailing as a tool to make a positive impact on the lives of youth facing difficult circumstances. Additionally, I manage the recreational boating launch facility in Mossel Bay. This role grants me the wonderful opportunity to connect with a diverse community of locals and visitors who share my deep love of the sea.
How long have you lived in the Mossel Bay area?
21 years.
What is your favourite thing about Mossel Bay?
Without a doubt, it is our magnificent bay. It offers some of the best sailing waters in the world, teeming with an incredible array of marine wildlife. What makes it truly special, though, is the community - we are surrounded by people who deeply appreciate, respect and care for this beautiful natural environment.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Free time? If I get a chance, I love to hike and be in nature.
What is something about you that people might not know?
I don't like water. Swimming is not an activity I would choose.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on your life?
Sailing. It has given my family the most memorable times together.
What are you most proud of in your life?
My children - both my own biological children and all of my sailing children. I am incredibly proud of the wonderful, resilient adults they have grown up to become, and it is a privilege to watch them thrive.
What is something you would still like to achieve or do?
I would love to introduce more international sailors to our spectacular bay. My dream is to get them so excited about our world-class waters that they choose Mossel Bay as their go-to destination for international training camps and major racing events.
If you could invite anyone in the world for coffee, who would it be and why?
My husband, Rob Holden. We have so much planning to finish.
What is one thing you would like to say to the people of Mossel Bay?
When we first moved to Mossel Bay, we were so impressed by the beauty, and we were absolutely amazed by how incredibly polite and caring everyone was. The kindness here runs deep. For instance, if someone accidentally stays stationary at a green robot, no one holds down their hooters in anger. Instead, people wait patiently, perhaps only giving a soft, polite tap on the horn after the second light cycle. Even walking into the local Spar, you are guaranteed to be greeted with warm smiles by strangers.
This gentle, caring spirit is what makes our lovely coastal town so special.
As Mossel Bay continues to grow, let's make a conscious effort to preserve this culture of respect and pass it on to every new resident moving in.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
