Five Minutes with Nel 

Do you collect anything? 

I do, I collect Tarot cards. All the different ones, from older styles to more modern decks. Some are very scary, some are very pretty, but I love collecting all the different designs. Whenever we travel and I see those witchy shops, I love going in there and looking for new decks.

How many languages do you speak?

Two — Afrikaans and English, of course.

If you could choose to be anything for a day, what would it be?

I would like to be a plate because I love food. And if I’m a plate, well, the world is my oyster — who knows what will be “on my plate” for the day?

If you could visit anywhere in the world you’ve never been, where would you go?

I would definitely go to Egypt. I’ve been to many places around the world, but I’ve never been to Egypt. I find Egyptian history very interesting. When I was younger, I really wanted to be an archaeologist and go to Egypt to explore all the tombs and historical sites, like Lara Croft.

Tell us about growing up in South Africa.

I’m from a town called Bloemfontein in South Africa. I lived there for practically my whole life. 

Growing up in South Africa between 1983 and 2012 was a unique, often intense experience shaped by enormous political, social, and cultural change likeapartheid, the democratic transition, and the first two decades of freedom, so childhood during those years was anything but static.

One of my fondest memories of South Africa is my first trip to the Kruger National Park with my grandparents. The vast landscapes, the early morning game drives, and the thrill of spotting wildlife made it unforgettable, but nothing compared to seeing the Big Five in real life.

The moment that stayed with me most was coming face to face with a massive African elephant. Standing so close to something so powerful yet so calm was humbling. It wasn’t just an encounter it felt like a connection. In that moment, I knew I had found my spirit animal.

What do you love most about Beaumaris?

As an expat, we don’t have family or a community here because they’re all overseas. So, what I love about Beaumaris is that it has always made me feel like I belong, and I’ve always felt welcomed. We’re like one big family, and I love coming to school every day.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I feel incredibly privileged to be in a position where I’m not just seen as an administrative staff member, but as someone who can build genuine relationships across the entire Beaumaris community. From the cleaners, to the staff, to every single student and their families, I value those connections deeply. Being a very social person, this aspect of my role brings me so much joy, it’s what makes the experience truly meaningful for me.

What is your favourite music?

My favourite music is alternative and pop and some "Doef Doef" There’s a band called Springbok Nude Girls that is definitely my number one alternative band. And I’m a very big Michael Jackson fan. I saw his movie and I absolutely loved it.

What is your ideal way to unwind and relax?

I love watching true crime documentaries. I get into bed and just watch true crime documentaries — it’s so relaxing! I also enjoy playing Call of Duty.  

What were you like as a student?

I was a bit of a wild child. I was the kid who broke the rules and coloured outside the lines. My grades were average, I was really focused on sport, and I certainly had my fair share of visits to the principal’s office.”

What was your favourite subject at school?

That’s a difficult one. I liked a lot of subjects, but if I had to choose one, I would go with Business Management, which is partly why I chose this career. Also, the Business Management teacher was the coolest in the school.

What would you sing at karaoke night?

The Best by Tina Turner — while thinking of Shannon, of course.

Who would you like to swap places with for the day?

The Pope — I want to know all the “secrets” that are kept inside the Vatican.

Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?

Beth Dutton from Yellowstone....

Thanks, Nel!

Interview by Lara K (Year 10) & Oliver P (Year 11)