Whatshot
John Steenhisen
John Steenhisen
Please can you state your full name and status:
John Steenhuisen, Chief Whip of the Opposition in Parliament
Describe yourself in 30 words
South African who is passionate about our country and its future. Dedicated to ensuring we maintain a vibrant multi-party democracy where our Constitution is protected and our people prosper.
What is your idea of perfect joy?
A work-free weekend with my wife and my two children on a beach on the East Coast.
Which historic character do you most identify with?
Robert Kennedy, his drive, guts and enthusiasm to never stop fighting for a better tommorrow.
What do you consider as your biggest extravagance?
I have a vice when it comes to Cuban cigars.
Which words do you most overuse?
unconstitutional
What is your ultimate disappointment?
That I still have not won the lottery despite buying tickets regularly
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My wife Terry and my two beautiful girls, Ashleigh and Caroline
Where is your most favourite place in the world?
The East Coast of South Africa, My best time of my week is flying home to uMhlanga
Which talent would you like to have?
To be able to play the saxophone
What is your current state of mind?
exercised about where we are heading as country
What is your favourite holiday destination?
Mozambique
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My two girls, they are smart, funny, entertaining and without doubt my greatest achievement
What do you fear most?
Failure ( and sharks!)
If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
Skabenga the Oyster Box Hotel cat, completely spoilt in a beautiful environment.
What is your most treasured possession?
My collection of political biographies, many of them signed.
Where would you like to live?
I am very happy in uMhlanga, but considering a move to Ballito
What is your favourite occupation?
I am lucky enough to be doing my dream job, every day is an adventure
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
My temper, I anger too quickly
Who are your favourite authors?
Jeffrey Archer, Robert Dallek
Who are your real life heroes?
John and Robert Kennedy, Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, George S. Patton, Mahatma Gandhi and Tony Leon
What do you dislike most in life?
Apart from intolerance its definitely traffic and cellphone companies
What is your motto?
Its a quote from World War 2 General George S Patton that hangs in my office: "do your damnedest in an ostentatious manner all the time"