From Benoni to… Ontario
Sharon Lowe (56) moved from South Africa to Canada, in Oakville, Ontario, when she was only 16, but still has fond memories of swimming in her clothes in a water feature at the Benoni Bunny Park.
“I remember feeding the bunnies carrots, playing with the goats and swimming in the water feature in our clothing,” said the former Benonian.
Lowe is the second person to be featured in a weekly column detailing the lives of former Benonians who have created a new life abroad.
READ: From Benoni to… Sussex
BCT: How long did you live in Benoni and when did you leave South Africa?
SL: I lived in the old mining town from the age of five to 11 (1966 to 1972). I moved to Canada at the age of 16, in 1977.
BCT: Why did you family decide to emigrate?
SL: My dad was concerned for our safety and my eldest brother was 21, so we either had to move as a family or never move at all.
BCT: You are a psychotherapist in private practice, but what else keeps you busy?
SL: There is a massive South African community in Oakville.
We have a butcher who stocks boerewors, biltong and lots of South African products.
There is also an SA wine club, but I don’t attend their functions.
I used to ski (in my younger years), but I now dogsled, snow shoe and camp.
BCT: Was it difficult to adjust to life in Canada, especially considering the cold weather?
SL: At first I hated it, but then I started to do winter activities and now love it.
It was a huge cultural shock at first, but I felt safe and I am able to thrive as a woman in my new country.
I have had far more opportunities here than I think I would have had in South Africa.
BCT: Would you relocate to South Africa?
SL: No, I love living here and have been here longer than I lived in sunny South Africa.
I do return to Africa from time to time, but I love my new life.
Do you know a former Benonian now living overseas?
If so, we’d like to interview them.
Email details to benonicitytimes@caxton.co.za
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
