MOSSEL BAY NEWS - As an environmental conservation advocate, Erika van der Westhuizen has become a well-known and respected member of the Mossel Bay and Dana Bay communities, always ready to assist all kinds of flora and fauna, from small tortoises stranded on the road to big bucks in need of rescue.
Tell us a little about yourself - who are you and what do you do?
I am a semi-retired resident of Dana Bay who will always remain a farm girl in my heart. I am a dog walker and the chairperson of the Dana Bay Conservancy.
How long have you lived in the Mossel Bay area?
I have been in Dana Bay for nearly 10 wonderful years.
What is your favourite thing about Mossel Bay?
I am a child of nature, so anything to do with the outdoors - the mountains, greenbelts, coastline, fynbos, and obviously the beautiful views.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I try to work in my garden, go to the beach, and swim, but I often give attention to planning strategies to make a difference in the conservancy. I am also an avid bookworm, which sometimes inspires new ideas.
What is something about you that people might not know?
I am a coffee snob, a wine connoisseur, and a whiskey enthusiast. Good quality is important.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on your life?
My great-grandmother, who made me believe I could do anything I put my mind to with hard work and dedication. She taught me the importance of respecting all living things.
What are you most proud of in your life?
First and foremost, my children and grandkids. And secondly, how I always strive to do better in everything I do by never giving up.
What is something you would still like to achieve or do?
Definitely travel more. My biggest wish is to visit Italy for pizza, pasta, wine, the arts, and the people with their passion for heritage.
If you could invite anyone in the world for coffee, who would it be and why?
The new Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs. There is so much to discuss about how South Africa can do better in saving our planet. I do get frustrated by how quickly a minister gets transferred in the cabinet. It makes it difficult to build relationships and get things done.
What is one thing you would like to say to the people of Mossel Bay?
You could make a difference. Don’t make it someone’s problem. Stop fighting, as teamwork makes the dream work!
Nominate our next ‘Ons Mens’ / ‘Our Person’
Would you like to nominate someone for this weekly feature? It could be anyone in the Mossel Bay area you believe is making a positive difference in our community. Send your nomination to linzetta@ groupeditors.co.za or WhatsApp it to 072 729 7121. Please include the following: the name of the person you are nominating, the reason for the nomination, your contact details, and the nominee’s contact details. Who knows - your local hero might be our next ‘Ons Mens’/‘Our Person’!
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