MOTIVATIONAL speaker and life coach Tumi Frazier has always had a passion for helping people, so her choice of career came naturally to her.

MOTIVATIONAL speaker and life coach Tumi Frazier has always had a passion for helping people, so her choice of career came naturally to her.

The qualified industrial psychologist uses her academic knowledge and wisdom to empower women and the youth.

In her latest book, Your Moment, which she launched a month ago, Frazier, also a successful businesswoman, shares strategies on how to thrive in difficult times and how to develop personally and as an entrepreneur.

She covers these issues through topics ranging from career management to self- image and self-esteem.

Frazier says personal development is key to improving one's life. And this includes altering patterns and exercising.

"Exercise as a relaxation mode is good. After all, a healthy mind requires a healthy body."

She believes that it is important for people to learn to say well done to others and to themselves. She also urges people not to let their environment determine what they become.

Obstacles will always exist, but one needs to have a clear sense of purpose, Frazier says.

"When I was at school the obstacle was 'Bantu education', but our teacher told us that perfecting our English skills was important.

"I practised daily and it helped to build my confidence. Good communication skills are a competitive advantage."

Frazier, who grew up in Katlehong on Gauteng's East Rand, says her upbringing and positive mind shaped her into the person she is today.

"I was raised like anybody else in the township. Back then children were brought up by the whole community and you couldn't be seen doing anything wrong by an elder," laughs Frazier.

She says that her role as "a type of counsellor and problem solver" to family and friends started during those early days.

"You know you get that one person that everyone shares their problems with. Well, I am that person," Frazier says.

So it came as no surprise when she decided to study psychology, she says.

"One thing I couldn't accept about psychology was that people are never seen as normal. I wanted to observe progress."

So she decided to study Industrial psychology instead and focused on leadership development.

"I think it is very important to change people's thinking and, in doing this, alter behavioural patterns. I love motivating people and women especially. My dream is to go back to the townships to help develop people's leadership skills."