My passions
Outside of Engineering
Tennis
Tennis has been part of my life since I was five, shaping me both on and off the court. Competing in provincial, national, and collegiate levels taught me how to thrive in both individual and team environments. Every serve and rally strengthened my communication, focus, and persistence; while learning to adapt under pressure sharpened my strategic thinking. Tennis is where I first learned that true success comes from discipline, teamwork, and never giving up on improvement. These are qualities I now carry into every challenge I take on.
Art
Art has always been my creative outlet; a space where logic meets imagination. Whether I’m sketching with charcoal (my favorite medium) or diving into a crafty weekend project, art helps me express ideas visually and think outside the box. I love transforming simple concepts into something meaningful, a skill that naturally flows into my design and engineering work. It reminds me that creativity isn’t just about beauty; it’s about innovation, experimentation, and seeing potential in every blank canvas.
Travel
Travel has been one of my greatest teachers. Having explored over 20 countries by the age of 23, I’ve learned to adapt quickly, communicate across cultures, and approach challenges with empathy and curiosity. From my roots in South Africa to the canals of Amsterdam, the vibrant streets of Thailand, and even the tropical beauty of the Seychelles, every journey has deepened my appreciation for different perspectives and ways of life. These experiences have shaped how I connect with others and solve problems creatively. Travel constantly reminds me that growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and experience the world through someone else’s lens.
Fishing
Fishing has been a lifelong passion that started when I was just a kid, tagging along with my dad and uncles on early morning trips. We used to chant silly “fish-catching” songs, believing they brought good luck; and somehow, they often did. Those moments taught me patience, focus, and the value of slowing down to appreciate the process. To this day, fishing reminds me that success often comes to those who wait, observe carefully, and act with precision. These lessons apply as much to engineering as they do to life.
Outdoor Sports
If it gets me moving, I’m in! Whether it’s hiking, horse riding, golfing, swimming, or playing badminton in the garden, I love anything that gets my heart pumping. Staying active keeps my mind sharp and my energy balanced. I even skydived once because sometimes you have to take the leap, literally. These experiences have taught me discipline, courage, and resilience. They are qualities I bring to both engineering and leadership.
Gaming
Gaming started for me in high school after I convinced my parents it wasn’t just a distraction. What began as a fun pastime quickly became a way to sharpen my strategy, precision, and teamwork. First-person shooters taught me to stay calm under pressure, make split-second decisions, and communicate effectively with my team; all while keeping things fun and competitive. Gaming taught me how focus and collaboration can lead to both victory and growth, which translates directly into how I approach problem-solving and leadership today.