Brenda Shankey
This week's Friday's Child is Derry woman Brenda Shankey. Brenda (nee Wilkinson) hails originally from Gleneagles but now lives in Belfast where she runs a male grooming business with her husband Jason.
The couple have recently opened their third salon on the trendy Lisburn Road area, and also run a million pound website. Recently Brenda picked up the L'Oreal Male Image Award 2008. She also took part in the hugely successful 'Life Swap' programme for BBC 'Spotlight' swapping lives with a single mum from Armagh for a week to highlight the huge poverty problems in Northern Ireland.
Brenda has two children, Lauren and Will.
How would you describe yourself?
I would describe myself as being happy, carefree, passionate about life and caring in everything I do.
Happiest childhood memory?
I remember running through the fields in the lashing rain with my dad, sisters and other kids from Steelstown village in Derry.
First Job?
My first job was at the age of 15 at Harvey's salon on the Strand Road. I guess that's where my love of hair styling and grooming came from!
Favourite book?
'The Secret' by Rhonda Byrne.
Favourite Film?
My all time favourite film is 'The Sound of Music'. It's an absolute classic, which is lovely and innocent unlike so many other films today. I never get tired of watching it or singing along- although I think others would prefer if I didn't sing to it!
Favourite TV programme?
I am really intrigued by documentaries about the struggles of human life. I love watching 'Panorama' and unusual Channel 4 programmes. It was great to see this genre come to life when I was asked to be involved in the BBC 1 'Spotlight' programme. I had to swap lives with a single mum from Armagh for a week to highlight the huge poverty problems we have here across the province.
Favourite Expression…
"If you do what you always did you'll get what you always got."
Favourite method of relaxation?
I love swimming – it really helps me relax and it's great for shifting a few of those unwanted pounds!
Favourite Holiday destination?
A cruise where there's plenty of sunshine. I love to stop off and do a bit of sight seeing and celeb spotting in Monaco as well.
Who would you most like to meet?
Gordon Ramsey- there's just something very attractive about him and what he does. I can't explain it but he is definitely extremely charming, charismatic and he can really cook, which is also an added bonus!
What makes you angry?
Malicious gossip and vindictiveness.
What makes you happy?
My children, working hard and making others happy.
What human quality do you most admire?
I really admire integrity as it is an admirable quality to have. People who stand by their beliefs and values are a great inspiration to me.
What human quality do you least admire?
Jealousy - there is no need for it at all. If you are content within yourself, you should not need to envy what others have - being truly happy is what counts.
What has been the most embarrassing thing to happen to you?
The most embarrassing thing ever was turning up to a formal in the same dress as a drag queen - does that say a lot about my style? I hope not!
What's the worst thing that's happened to you in life?
Suffering from post natal depression was one of the worst things that have ever happened in my life. It was a difficult time for me and my family but thankfully I came through it and am now stronger than ever.
What is your greatest fear?
I don't believe in fear, I believe in courage. Life is full of the unknown so you must learn to face it head on instead of running away all of the time and courage enables you to do this.
What has been the high point of your life so far?
I have had plenty of highs and lows. One that stands out in more recent years is raising awareness of local poverty through the 'Spotlight' TV programme. Since my involvement with the documentary I have been approached to become actively involved with the Save The Children charity here. This is a huge privilege and I look forward to many more high points through my work with Save The Children..
How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be thought of as a positive, bubbly person who made a difference and brought happiness to others.
What is your most treasured possession?
My husband! I know that this sounds terribly cheesy but he keeps me sane through all the madness. He is a huge pillar of strength and he supports me through the thick and thin and I am so lucky to have him in my life.
If you won the lotto what would you do with it?
Firstly I would have to buy my mum and dad a retirement home to say thanks for all they've done for me. Like anyone else I'd also jump at the chance to clear my mortgage. Finally, I would love to follow through to completion a project for banishing child poverty here in Northern Ireland.
If you could be granted one wish in life, what would you ask for?
Eternal peace and happiness.
If you could write your own epitaph what would it read?
The way to happiness:
Keep your mind free from hate
Your mind free from worry.
Expect little, give much.
Forget self and think of others.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Derry
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 14 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
