#knowyourbenoni Her love for history led her to pursue a new career

BCT: You live in Bedfordview,why did you move from Benoni?

CB: I lived in Benoni from when I was born (1991) until I finished university (2014).

I moved to Bedfordview simply because it is more centrally located for my work.

BCT: Why do you still visit Benoni?

CB: My mother, Vanessa Bower, worked at the Sibikwa Arts Centre for a number of years so I have been involved there since I was six years old.

I used to attend their winter school during the June school holidays.

When I was old enough, I assisted them with general or administrative tasks.

I am a big supporter of theirs and try to attend as many events as possible.

BCT: Tell us about your career as a tour guide.

CB: I started working as a tour guide at the beginning of the year.

I have always been passionate about South Africa and Gauteng and got tired of my office job.

Tour guiding means I am not bound to a desk. I am always out and about and get to meet new and interesting people all the time.

It has also allowed me to put my studies to good use – guests often want to know about the history of the region.

BCT: Tell us about your studies in history.

CB: After I obtained a Bachelor of Social Science degree at Rhodes University (2011 – 2013), I completed an honours degree in South African History, in 2014.

I was lucky that my parents encouraged me to study something that interests me. They encouraged me to follow my passions, rather than to be concerned about money.

I loved History at high school.

Willowmoore High School has an excellent History department with teachers who really encourage learners to develop a passion for the subject.

BCT: What are your goals?

CB: I would love to show people the huge opportunities that exist in the tourism industry. There are opportunities for locals and international visitors.

I am planning tours for local South Africans. They’ll be starting towards the end of the year.

I hope to develop some tours that will explore the struggle history of Ekurhuleni as well as the wealth of art deco architecture in some of the older East Rand towns.

BCT: Do you have hobbies?

CB: I love to cook and experiment with flavours and different cuisines.

I also enjoy yoga and pilates.

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