YOUR WOW WOMAN Diane: Activist, Freedom Fighter, Educator

NOMINATED AND SUBMITTED BY Karen Chandler Cain

1. Name of the WOW Woman you are nominating.

Diane Hendricks.

2. Location.

Bot River / Cape Town, SA

3. What has she dared to tackle, or done to innovate, achieve, soar, lift-up others, overcome challenges, defy expectations/norms, etc?

Diane has been a tireless activist, freedom fighter, educator for her entire life. From a primary school teacher to University of Cape Town trainer of teachers, she has continued to expand her impact and share her knowledge. She fought against the apartheid regime in the 80s-90s. She helped establish the Bot River Advice Office to support her community.

4. What are some of the outcomes/results of her accomplishments, actions, causes, etc.?

She fought against the apartheid regime in the 80s-90s. She helped establish the Bot River Advice Office to support her community. She has had an immeasurable impact in training teachers through the Schools Development Unit at UCT.

5. What can other women learn from her?

Commitment to one's beliefs. Surviving loss - her son, her brother, countless dear friends gone too soon. Importance of faith. Standing up for what you believe in. Valuing family above all else. Importance of sense of humor. Joie de vivre.

6. Why does she inspire you in particular?

Diane has endured many hardships in life, including personal loss, racism and political oppression. And yet, Diane is the one that lights up the room, the joy of the party. She has a buoyant life energy while also being sentimental and deeply emotional. Her energy is boundless. Her sense of humor is raucous; she keeps her family in stitches. Her laugh is contagious. Her honesty is heartfelt.

7. Your name.

Karen Chandler Cain