The secret life of .... Shirley Randell Nyirarukundo

Shirley Randell Nyirarukundo is an Australian, mother of 4, grandmother of 10. She is the senior education, gender and governance for empowerment adviser for SNVRwanda since February 2006. Nyirarukundo is also the founder Secretary General of Rwanda Association of University Women (RAUW), and vice President of International Federation of University Women (IFUW). What is your favourite word? Sister Who is your childhood best friend? My mother The worst job you have ever done? Cleaning up spilt food and broken crockery after a severe earthquake destroyed my 2001 Christmas dinner for 20 people in Vanuatu. Your greatest achievement... Supporting women in Rwanda to start the Rwandan Association of University Women What keeps you awake at night? My emails What is the most important lesson your mother taught you? My mother taught me not to be afraid to dive into icy cold water in the Indian Ocean because in no time at all my body would feel comfortable. My favourite clothing style... Saris The best invitation ever… “Will you marry me?” What do you hope to be doing five years from now? Skydiving in Dubai The craziest thing you have ever done in life? Getting drunk (only once) on my 40th birthday on expensive champagne and port made by women winemakers while celebrating International Women’s Day. The most expensive thing you have bought recently? Chlorine for my swimming pool. What would you like to wear to a party? An exotic, sparkling Umushanana (Rwanda’s traditional dress). What has been your greatest disappointment? Neighbourhoods cats eating the birds in my garden. What do you like cooking? I love eating good food that others have cooked for me. If you were given chance to edit your past, what would you add? Nothing – I’m content and have no regrets. What’s your favourite game? Playing computer games with my grandchildren. Ends