A memoir of resilience, passion

FOR Gloria Arendz-Theiler, growing up in Elsies River, on 13th Street off Epping Avenue, in a three-bedroom house her father built himself, shaped much of who she is today. Now, she splits her life between Zurich and Camps Bay, but her roots remain deeply intertwined with her early years.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

GLORIA Arendz-Theiler chronicles her life in her book.

(IAN LANDSBERG Indepenent Newspapers)

Later this week, she will launch her book, Glorious... Unbroken, a work that she describes as both a legacy for her children and a story to inspire anyone overcoming adversity. A book of self reflection that evolved into much of a memoir.

Her parents instilled values that continue to guide her. "Always put yourselves in the other person's position. That's what my parents taught me. They always said to view people through your own eyes and not through what others say about them. You are only as good as how you feel and the respect you give."

Those lessons in empathy, respect, and integrity became the foundation for everything she has achieved.

Even at a young age, Arendz-Theiler showed determination and ingenuity. During Apartheid, she was mistakenly identified as Portuguese to gain entry into a beauty school.

"It was actually not that difficult to retain that persona," she recalled. "They all thought I was Portuguese. They had no idea I was coloured. If they had known, they would have reacted differently.

"When they realised I was this lovely young coloured girl, the aura around me changed. I could navigate all the chaos happening around me."

The director of the school suggested the idea, and it worked seamlessly, giving Arendz-Theiler access to opportunities otherwise denied to her.

One memory stands out vividly: Arendz-Theiler was reminded thereof when she walked into a small restaurant near the school.