Reinvention comes easily to Suzette van der Merwe, Miss South Africa 1990, who morphed from pageant titleholder to senior executive in charge of corporate Social Investment at a major telecom company with ease.
Now, the 50-something-year-old Suzette is making another big change in her life – one that takes her back to her first love: creating beautiful interior spaces. Suzette has thrown her talent and skills behind Pencil & Oak and joined the Paarl, Western Cape-based high-end furniture and décor company as its brand manager.
Suzette began her new journey in 2019, the year she turned 50 and had a health scare. “I asked myself the question: If I have 20 summers left, how, with who and where am I going to spend them?” Her plan – to retire from corporate and take a year-long sabbatical while considering her options – was derailed by the pandemic.
Live life with love & passion
Earlier this year Suzette moved her family to the Cape Winelands where they are about to build their dream home. “It was a conscious decision to live a more balanced, authentic and healthy life. It’s only when I slowed down and had an honest conversation with myself that I was reminded of my first love and passion.”
In her own words: “I have had a remarkable career and enjoyed every moment of it. But the magic of life is that we have different seasons. I look forward to the next chapter.”
She said: “Since I can remember I’ve always loved making beautiful spaces. As a young girl, I used to move my bedroom furniture around every week…and still do! It’s like I’ve come full circle, finally able to turn to the creative side of my talent.”
Pencil & Oak specialises in craftsmanship where customised furniture and high-quality products are made from the finest ethically sourced materials. Co-owner and founder, Stephan Smith, said of Suzette: “She epitomises what our brand stands for: A world-class, respected, quality person with timeless style and longevity. We look forward to her helping us grow our brand, as she comes with a wealth of corporate experience and creativity. We are proud to have her join our team.”
