Zani Suttle

My full name is Zanele Suttle (pronounced “Zah-nehleh”) and is a South African Zulu name that means “the last girl.”

I’m a vivacious, tenacious, gutsy girl next door. I have a passion for children, traveling and people. 

LIFE MANTRA:

If you are easy on yourself life with be hard, if you are hard on yourself life will be easy,” by author Zig Ziggler.

BACKGROUND:

I was born in the US but raised in both South Africa and the US.

I consider myself both South African and American – a true African-American. With my mother being South African and my father being American, I grew up with the best of both worlds and was taught two different cultural values.

FAMILY:

My father, Dr Earl Suttle, is a highly sought after International motivational speaker and sport psychologists consultant for the NBA and NFL players.

My mother, Dr Felicia Mabuza-Suttle, is a journalist and savvy businesswoman. She used to be a well-known television talk show host in South Africa - formally known as “South Africa’s Oprah.” 

My older sister, Lindwe Suttle is a well-known singer, songwriter & entertainer in South Africa and Europe.

EDUCATION:

I received a full tennis scholarship to Syracuse University and studied Advertising. I then transferred to the University of Georgia, where I received a full academic scholarship and graduated in 2004 with a BA degree in Advertising and Journalism.

CAREER:

I’ve worked in several industries from fashion and beauty advertising, event PR and hospitality, and entertainment journalism.

I'm currently the Chief Happiness Officer and Creative Director of a girls apparel line - Polkadot What.

ADDITIONAL FUN FACTS:

-        I am the founder and head coach for Super Duper Tennis - a tennis program for kids under 10 years old in NYC. www.superdupertennis.com

-        I co-produced and hosted a travel show with my sister. The show focused on promoting positive perceptions of African countries - through fun, fashion and food - to America and the world.

 -        I'm married to a Dane and learning Danish. 

 -        I'm a proud mother of a 9 month old girl.