Recently awarded the title of Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in KZN, Kloof resident Lal Jayamaha can’t help but nurture everything he comes across – from the beautiful relationship with the love of his life, Jacqui, to his prestigious tour company Serendipity … all the while striving to improve life for those around him
Story and pictures Katrine Anker-Nilssen
Many moons ago, Lal Jayamaha was working as a tour guide in his home country, Sri Lanka. “I was going through a difficult time and looking for someone who would love me 100%, someone I could love 150% back,” he says. “My prayers were answered when I met Jacqui.”
Jacqui was raised in Sri Lanka, but relocated to South Africa with her parents as a young teenager. Her first love was always the theatre and he studied drama at UKZN. “I got into television as a presenter of wildlife and eco-tourism programmes, and later began producing documentaries,” she says.
In 1992, Lal guided Jacqui’s family on their return holiday through the country, and his serendipitous encounter with Jacqui was the catalyst to their beautiful journey together. “We have a very special love story as I found my true love back in the land of my youth,” says Jacqui. “Lal is the epitome of a gentleman. He is extremely wise and the most optimistic, positive human being I have ever met.”
Shortly after returning to South Africa, Jacqui found a work opportunity for Lal and he immediately moved across the world to be with her. The couple married in 1994 and, 23 years later, they couldn’t be happier. “The love and trust we share keep our relationship strong. We talk about everything and at times argue about silly things, which adds spice to our bond. We share the same interests and values, and we inspire and motivate each other to keep the inner fire burning,” says Lal. “There is no secret to our love,” adds Jacqui. “It is simply just love.”
Jacqui was a single mom to Ryan, Travis and Dane when Lal walked into their lives. “Lal has been a constant source of calm and gentleness, and the boys know he is there for them unconditionally,” she says.
“I had to win their hearts first, of course,” says Lal. “It all happened so beautifully and progressed naturally. I am so fortunate to be their wicked stepdad!”
Lal has a daughter, Cobijn, from his previous marriage, who teaches French in Holland. The Jayamahas also have two precious grandchildren. “Our blended family consists of an extremely talented, sporty and crazy bunch of loving and vital personalities,” says Jacqui.
Once settled in South Africa, Lal quickly realised he wanted to work for himself. Twenty years ago, with two trusted partners, Serendipity Tours was born. Today they have 65 employees in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town. “I am very target-oriented, so Serendipity never stopped growing,” says Lal. “We faced a lot of challenges in the beginning, but we were determined and we trusted our instincts. We made sure we always managed everything within our means.”
The Honorary Consul post is something Lal is evidently excited about. “The initial discussions about this post started a few years back, but nothing much happened as Sri Lanka had elections and a new government was formed. However, in July 2016 the new Sri Lankan High Commissioner in South Africa took the matter forward,” explains Lal. There was lots of correspondence between the two governments and, of course, plenty of papers to sign by the relevant ministers. But late in November 2016, Lal got the news that the position had been approved. “It is an honour to represent your country in any sphere. I plan to promote tourism and trade between the two countries, as well as focus on economic development,” he says.
In December alone, Serendipity sent 60 people to Sri Lanka, a sure sign that this beautiful island is on the increase as a tourist destination. “Sri Lanka is the most traditionally and culturally rich country, and so ecologically diverse. It’s the land of serendipity indeed,” says Jacqui. During the couple’s annual visit with family and friends, Lal negotiates holiday packages to promote in South Africa while Jacqui challenges herself to learn a new curry dish. “She can make any Sri Lankan woman jealous with the meals she prepares,” says Lal proudly.
So, what’s next for this determined yet humble man? “My dreams are wild and scary,” laughs Lal. “I’m setting my eyes on a new mission now. Maybe a diplomatic position somewhere?
“Though I am in a very comfortable position with my travel business, I keep looking for challenges to inspire me. I need new goals,” he says. “If I can make a difference in other people’s lives and assist them in becoming successful, that gives me immense joy and happiness.” *
Lal Jayamaha
031 201 0630
www.serendipitytravel.co.za
