5 MINUTES WITH TUMI MORAKE

With so many balls to juggle as a mother and businesswoman, Tumi Morake gives us a sneak peek into her busy yet colourful life.

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You’re a comedian, actress, TV host and now author, what has it taken for you to be this successful?
I have yet to give myself a good enough reason not to go after the things that make me curious, or the opportunities that present themselves to me. Everything I do is usually a means to an end.

Your book And Then Mama Said ... was released on the 8th October 2018, what are the lessons that have shaped you as a mother?
My mother's ability to take knocks made me feel like struggles are a natural part of life, not a debilitating phenomenon meant to break you. She made me a mother who can laugh with her kids and still be seen as a disciplinarian. Through her, I know the importance of my children seeing me at my best and my worst so they can be less hard on themselves when they face life's challenges.

How do you balance life as mom, wife, and businesswoman?
Since I have never heard any man discuss balancing those things I figured it is doable to prosper in career and family. Our roles are fluid in the family, which makes it easy to step in when any ball is dropped at home or at work. The secret is to constantly be on the same page as a couple. Then tag-teaming is a breeze.

What’ next for Tumi?
I am going into filmmaking and doing more overseas travel with my comedy.

What do you like doing for fun?
I enjoy gaming apps and entertaining. We also do a lot of SANParks holidays, as a family to take a break from the concrete jungle.

Where is your favourite place to visit?
Amakhala Bush Lodge, it’s heaven on earth. The kids are always thrilled to spot members of the Big 5, the food is amazing and the hospitality is unmatched.

What is most challenging about being a mom of three school-going kids?
School is expensive, hahaha! Picking between buying a new car or paying annual fees to score that discount can be painful. They are also mini individuals with their own schedules and keeping up with that can be a nightmare. Giving each child individual attention has to be a scheduled event because most of the time all three are there and the focus is split.

You have a Netflix special in the pipeline, what does this mean for you?
I suppose it means I have a bit of a lead in if I try to play more in North America. It also means more people get to know my name globally, creating an opportunity for me to grow my brand and comedy. I have had many firsts; this one has been extra special.

What do you dislike the most about being in the public eye?
Not being able to wear my tracksuit pants and a dodgy t-shirt with no make-up and going to the shops. I miss privacy sometimes.

Any words of inspiration for Jet Club readers.
You don't need anyone's permission to be amazing or successful. It can be hard, it can be scary, but that's what makes chasing your dreams exciting.

What is your favourite movie?
Django

What is your favourite food?
Prawn Chow Mein

What’s your fashion style or favourite outfit?
I really enjoy wearing jumpsuits and shirt dresses. I love sneakers too.

If you have a joke perhaps for our Jet Club family?
What’s brown and rhymes with Snoop? Dr Dre.


Images: Supplied