Rising Strong: Tales of two resilient women

Resilience, what does it mean? For many, it's the ability to bounce back from adversity to stand firm in life's challenges. However, for resilient women, it goes beyond mere survival; it's about transformation, courage, and the relentless pursuit of growth despite the obstacles. In this interview, we explore the stories of two remarkable women who exemplify the true essence of resilience, sharing their triumph, strength, and unyielding determination, irrespective of the odds. Dayna Camilleri Clarke caught up with Lorinda Mamo and Claire Sammut to learn more.

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Lorinda Mamo

Lorinda Mamo founded HappyPlay Co. and embodies the power of creativity as a tool for resilience and connection. With a background in biological sciences and a career in design and storytelling, she's known for her iconic quote, "Every great design begins with an even better story." Her creative hub, HappyPlay Co., offers workshops and experiences that inspire joy, imagination, and connection through crafting and play.

As a mother to a medically complex child and a breast cancer survivor, Lorinda's journey is one of courage and unwavering positivity. These experiences shaped her belief in the transformative role of play and creativity in navigating life's challenges. Lorinda also delivers workshops for entrepreneurs and companies, helping them explore creativity as a driver of innovation and resilience. Known on social media as A Bird with a French Fry, she shares her journey of positivity, resilience, and creativity through social media, public speaking, and podcasts, inspiring others to approach life's challenges with hope and courage. Through her work and personal story, Lorinda inspires others to find joy and strength in every chapter of their lives.

What inspired you to pivot from a background in biological sciences to pursue your passion for art, design, and creativity?

Although my formal education was in biological sciences, my heart was always drawn to creativity. In 2010, my husband and I started a small side business creating websites, which evolved into a creative advertising and branding agency. However, when my son was born in 2013, his medical complexities, and soon after, my journey with cancer became a priority. We ended up losing and closing our business just as it was beginning to grow.

Being in and out of the hospital with my son and navigating surgery after surgery, I couldn't commit to a regular job. At the same time, I needed an outlet for my psychological and emotional well-being, as well as a way to earn some income. That's when I turned to my creativity. I began making small accessories, selling them online, and even supplying shops between hospital visits and surgeries in London. It was a powerful reminder that creativity had always been my true calling, and it ultimately laid the foundation for what was to come.

Facing significant challenges, such as your son's medical complexities and your breast cancer diagnosis, how did you find the strength to rebuild your personal and professional life during those trying times? 

Focusing on my passions gave me purpose and joy, even during the most challenging moments. There was so much happening that I could not change, and creativity helped me cope, provided a much-needed distraction, and gave me a sense of accomplishment. Creativity wasn't just a hobby; it was my therapy and a way to channel my energy positively.

How did your experiences as a mother and caregiver influence your decision to create HappyPlay Co.? 

Spending so much time in the hospital with my son further deepened my love for play and continued to open my eyes to its power. Play became a tool for communication, especially when we had to explain complicated things to my little boy, like his surgeries and treatments. It brought him joy, even in challenging circumstances, and helped him process what was happening in a way words couldn't.

At the same time, I realised how much play and creativity were helping me as well. Those small moments of crafting or playing with him allowed me to switch off from the stress and reconnect with a bit of joy, even when my heart was shattered. 

These experiences solidified my belief in the importance of play—not just for children but also for adults. Creativity allows people to reconnect with their inner child, unlocking memories and emotions they might not have tapped into for years—just watch any adult pick up a crayon! 

Interestingly, HappyPlay Co.'s idea has been my dream since I was pregnant. Having always loved crafts and now embracing parenthood, I envisioned a creative space where people could come together to nurture creativity. I imagined a place for parents to spend quality time with their children while also carving out time for themselves—creating a space for anyone seeking creativity, connection, joy, and inspiration. HappyPlay Co. also houses KIN CafeBar, which offers an all-around unique opportunity for the community and creatives to gather and connect over refreshments while engaging in creative activities or just visiting.

In what ways has creativity served as a tool for healing, growth, and reinvention in your journey?

Creativity helped me see that I was more than our illnesses and struggles. It gave me a sense of accomplishment and pride, even when everything else was dark and uncertain.

There's something therapeutic about making things with your hands—it releases serotonin and dopamine, the "feel-good" chemicals that boost positivity. For me, creativity wasn't just a way to pass the time; it was a way to remind myself of all the beauty life still had to offer.

What key lessons did you learn about resilience and gratitude while navigating personal and professional challenges?

One of the biggest lessons I've learned is the importance of perspective. My son's and my health challenges taught me to focus on what truly matters in life. Gratitude became my anchor, and I learned to appreciate the small moments of joy and connection, even amid adversity.

For me, resilience is about accepting that life will have its ups and downs and finding ways to adapt and move forward. Creativity was my way of doing that, and I encourage others to embrace it as well.

What is your long-term vision for HappyPlay Co., and how do you hope it will contribute to the lives of children and families?

My vision for HappyPlay Co. is to continue growing as a vibrant creative hub where people of all ages can come together to create, learn, and connect. Whether it's a child discovering a new craft or skill, a family bonding over creative activities, or an entrepreneur exploring how creativity fuels innovation, HappyPlay Co. will continue to develop the space and varied experiences that bring joy and inspiration. It's about more than just crafting; it's about offering an environment where people can switch off, make new friends, and rediscover the joy of play.

HappyPlay Co. is already quite a unique destination, offering party events that are different and creating memorable experiences for families and individuals alike. The aim is also to continue developing and producing products that enhance and extend the play experience outside of HappyPlay Co.'s premises, allowing the magic of creativity to continue well beyond the events.

Ultimately, I hope it will encourage people to embrace creativity to enrich their everyday lives and strengthen their relationships.

What advice would you offer to individuals looking to restart their lives, rebuild after adversity, or reinvent themselves meaningfully?

Focus on your journey. It's easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others and feel like you're falling behind, especially when challenges set you back. But life isn't a race; it's about finding your path and moving forward at your own pace.

Find something you're passionate about, and let that guide you. Passion can be a powerful motivator, whether a creative hobby, a new skill, or simply reconnecting with what makes you happy.

Remember, resilience isn't about avoiding challenges but learning to navigate them with hope and determination.

www.facebook.com/HappyPlayCo

Claire Sammut

Claire Sammut is a dynamic professional who has carved a unique path by excelling in two highly demanding and varying fields: restaurant management and professional boxing. As the operations manager at Marilu's Restaurant in Siggiewi, Claire oversees daily operations with a results-focused approach, ensuring exceptional service quality while creating a positive team culture. With extensive experience in recruitment, training, customer service, and cost management, she has developed an impressive track record of leading hospitality ventures to success.

Claire holds the remarkable distinction of being Malta's first female professional boxer outside the culinary world. Previously ranked 33rd globally in the lightweight division, her boxing journey reflects a deep dedication to discipline, perseverance, and breaking barriers. She has inspired many by proving that excelling in physically and mentally demanding arenas is possible.

A University of Malta graduate with a Bachelor's degree in History of Art, Claire's background includes contributions to the arts, education, and community initiatives. Her multifaceted career has seen her play roles ranging from teacher and artist to logistics manager, consistently showcasing her adaptability and drive for excellence.

Balancing her professional and athletic pursuits, Claire exemplifies how passion and hard work can lead to success across diverse domains. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and her commitment to paving the way for others in business and sports.

Boxing and managing a popular restaurant are both physically and mentally demanding. How do you stay resilient and maintain focus in such high-pressure environments?

I plan and make lists but have learned to be flexible and not get frustrated over 'to do' stuff that has not been done or unforeseen circumstances. I strive to do the most important things, like training in the morning. I take a short nap before my evening shift at the restaurant, which splits my day into two separate sections. In this way, I can face my work clearly. I have learned that rest and recovery are essential. My rowing coach, Dr. Michelle Vella Wood, told me that that is the difference between an amateur and a professional. A professional knows when to stop.

What lessons from your boxing career have translated into your role as a restaurant manager at Marilu's? How do those experiences shape your leadership style?

Training as a boxer taught me how to break down difficult combos or movements. At work, when something is tedious, or I'm doing it for the first time, I similarly break it down into steps to pluck up the courage and succeed in completing the task. The hard training sometimes gives me a slow-mo vision of incidents and helps me dissect and understand what is happening better.  Meeting diverse people from all walks of life throughout these years has sharpened my gut feeling. How I plan a fight, focusing on the dominant aspects of my opponent, has taught me how important it is to choose my battles. Boxing has taught me to lose gracefully and make the best out of every situation.

Claire vs Gail fight

You've undoubtedly faced societal expectations and stereotypes in both fields. How have you navigated and overcome these challenges, and what advice would you give to others confronting similar obstacles?

I try not to give in to what society expects of me and not to care about the opinions of people outside my circle. Here's where I will share my mantra! I love the climax of the song 'Innuendo' by Queen: 'You can be anything you want to be, just turn yourself into anything you think you could ever be'. I live by it. When people tell me I can't do something, I take it as a dare and do everything I can to achieve it. It goes without saying I am highly competitive and ambitious. I want to do things properly, and I enjoy learning new things and taking an interest in people and their hobbies. I try not to get carried away.

Both boxing and catering are male-dominated. Things are changing slowly. More than ever, I believe women from my generation in Malta are significant game changers. I feel I'm part of this movement.

Fight corner with Quenda

Balancing professional boxing, managing a popular eatery, and personal life is no small feat. How do you find the mental and emotional strength to juggle these responsibilities?

The hardest part is the financial aspect. It's the one that is mostly beyond my control.

Who or what inspires you to push forward when the going gets tough, and how do you measure personal growth in your professional and personal life?

My inspiration is my family, especially my parents. They are so hardworking and kind. I like to have 'conversations' with my grandmas. I wonder how they were at my age and what obstacles they had to face for me to have the life that I have today.   

I keep and have always kept a physical diary that doubles up as a journal.  I jot down comments, informative notes, mantras, appointments, and feelings. At the end of the week, month, and year, I review the previous week, month, and year and review it - my decisions, the people in my life, and my habits. My close friend Chiara and I (who attended the same primary and secondary school together) call it the curse of the 'everyday better'. Quotidie Melius (better every day) was the motto of our school.

Sometimes, as an athlete, I also measure my personal growth in kilos. The less I weigh, the more disciplined I am. I am optimal physically and mentally at a certain weight, which has a feel-good effect on me.

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