Our former educator in focus:

MRS YD GOVENDER

Meet Mrs YD Govender, a remarkable educator whose passion for teaching has touched countless lives. Born on October 4, in Pietermaritzburg, she embarked on her teaching career after matriculating from Woodlands in 1976. Over the next 22 years, she enriched the minds of young learners at Woodlands with lessons in Physical Education, Natural Sciences, and Biology. She then spent 18 years at Heather Secondary School, where she dedicated herself to teaching Mathematics, Maths Literacy, and Life Science. Mrs Govender's commitment to education goes beyond the classroom — she is a loving wife, a mother of two daughters, and a doting grandmother to a two-year-old grandson. Her lifelong dedication to learning and teaching continues to inspire both learners and fellow educators.

IN HER WORDS...

LEARNING NEVER STOPS

Thank you for allowing me to share some lessons I’ve learned along my journey. I consider myself a lifelong learner because life never stops offering new experiences and insights. Each day brings something new to discover, making my life more inspiring and joyous.

VANAKKUM TO MY HEATHER SCHOOL FAMILY

“Vanakkum” to my Heather School family. My mother always greeted everyone with this Tamil word, and it’s only now that I’ve realized its deeper significance. According to the Tholkappiyam, one of the oldest surviving Tamil grammar texts written over 3,000 years ago, “Vanakkum” is more than just a simple greeting; it’s a profound expression of respect, acknowledging one’s soul and their connection to the creator.

My parents interacted with people from all walks of life—different ages, races, and social statuses. From them, I learned to treat everyone with good manners, love, respect, and dignity, always seeking to see the good in others. They taught me to do everything from the heart, not for praise or reward, and to keep God at the centre of my universe. I believe in the principle of karmic action—doing unto others as you would have them do to you.

I’ve also learned to value my name and identity deeply. If I respect and love myself, I can extend that same respect to others, valuing their views and feelings, even when we don’t agree. One key lesson I’ve learned is that once words are spoken, they can never be taken back, and the way you make someone feel can stay with them forever. Learning to listen and to mind my own business are skills I’m still acquiring.

FOMO AND LIFE EXPERIENCES

Many of you know that I’ve always had FOMO—the fear of missing out. Whether in school or on holiday, I’ve always been eager to soak up every experience, enjoying every minute of teaching and learning. On holiday, I’m like Speedy Gonzales, rushing to capture every beautiful scene, often leaving my family behind with no photos of us together because I’m too busy photographing the attractions.

A recent experience on Mount Sinai in Egypt, however, taught me a valuable lesson. I couldn’t rush up the mountain as I usually would because the journey started at midnight, and I had to follow the guide slowly up the 10 km rocky path to the summit, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. From this, I learned to slow down, appreciate the beauty around me, and create a personal “11th commandment”: Thou shall not rush.

A LIFETIME OF DISCIPLINE AND JOY

For many years, I’ve followed simple rules that have brought joy and ease to my life. Making my bed each morning transforms my space, and I’ve stuck to an exercise routine five times a week for over 50 years, which has kept me healthy, reduced stress, and allowed me to maintain the same dress size. I challenge all of you to try the Zen Swing, as taught by Troy Casey, the "Certified Health Nut" on YouTube, for one month. It will energize your mind, body, and soul. My motto is inspired by Regina Brett: “No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.”

Dancing has also been an integral part of my life. I’ve enjoyed various styles, from classical ballet and Bharatnatyam to Spanish, ballroom, and modern dance. For the past 15 years, I’ve been passionate about line dancing, which not only keeps my body fit but also sharpens my mind with its demanding coordination and thought, while keeping me connected with many friends.

REFLECTIONS AND GRATITUDE

Over four decades as an educator, I’ve gained many nuggets of wisdom from my colleagues. One that stands out is how male colleagues can disagree on certain issues and remain great friends, resolving conflicts quickly without taking things personally. This has taught me to fight my own battles, mind my own business, and remember that what others think of me is their opinion, not my reality.

As educators, we have valuable knowledge and experience that we must use to guide, support, and motivate our youth to become better members of society.

To all the incredible women in my life, I salute you. We’ve shared magical moments together, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating our joys. You are always close to my heart, and thinking of you fills me with tremendous joy.

Wishing you all God’s abundant blessings of love, laughter, and happiness.