Zubeida prepares for para surfing champs
The Port Shepstone born woman has defied the odd over and over again.
Zubeida Bux (54) of Port Shepstone has gone from writing a book to riding waves.
She is a published author, having written a book entitled Maariyah. It’s based on her life’s journey and inspired by true events.
Zubeida took up surfing fairly recently and has been selected for the KwaZulu-Natal Para Surfing team to compete in the SA Para Surfing Champs at Durban’s New Pier from Friday, July 29 to Sunday, July 31.
As a nine year old, she contracted polio. While it may have impacted her mobility it did nothing to her spirit and she has proven to be a courageous survivor, taking on and overcoming various challenges, including adopting two children and raising them.
She has never shied away from hard work and adventure, having worked long hours for 25 years in the travel and tourism industry, owning her own travel agency at a time, based in Reynolds Street in Port Shepstone.
This gave her the opportunity to visit exotic places, including islands, and through this has been able to scuba dive, jet ski and snorkel.
She now lives in Durban, where she has a wonderful view of Durban harbour. Her pride and joy are her three beautiful grandchildren.
Zubeida thanked the Made For More non-profit organisation which has played a major role in making her dream a possibility – that of taking part in the champs.
She said MFM was doing some excellent work in Durban, with volunteers and coaches who are committed to keeping the paraplegics safe while having fun.
Her personal coach is Owami Zama, a South African surf champion.
“Owami’s enthusiasm, passion and commitment to get me ready for the champs cannot be explained. He makes sure I am on the beach, training. He is the sweetest, strongest coach and one who is constantly pushing my limits,” she said.
Zubeida surfs at least three times a week and trains at gym at least twice a week.
She drives herself around and loves to cook and bake.
“I want people with challenges to know that you can do anything you dream of. It’s never to late to start, don’t wait for tomorrow, life is short, live it.”
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