Meet Dallas Dweller Lumbie Mlambo
Lumbie Mlambo grew up the youngest of 10 children in a rural part of Zimbabwe, Africa. Her family were farmers who raised cattle and grew crops (largely, corn) to feed their large brood. "I grew up feeling loved and supported, learning from them the value of not judging others, being humble, appreciating the little things and understanding that positive change for the better can come, no matter how hopeless the current moment may seem," say Mlambo of her childhood. She discovered a passion for computer science and Information Technology and moved with her husband's job to Indiana where she earned an Associate's Degree in Computer Science from Indiana University at South Bend and later returned to Texas to get her B.S. in Computer Science and Mathematics from Texas Woman's University. She launched her career in Software Development in 1996 and later worked as a business analyst and project manager in the IT Industry. Her background includes an extraordinary 10-year stint as a Software Engineer with JP Morgan Chase, where she was in charge of developing mortgage-related consumer software.
"My life was more clearly revealed during recovery from a stroke in 2001 that left me partially paralyzed," says Mlambo. "I have since recovered, but I consider myself forever a stroke patient." As a result of that experience, she started a lifestyle magazine in 2009 called Equanimity. to share meaningful content for all. The goal, Mlambo say, "is to inspire, motivate, and empower people to thrive and not give up on their dreams but to realize that they have a potential to rise and be somebody and become productive in their communities. Equanimity which means mental or emotional stability or composure; balance." In 2013 she founded a non-profit organization with the sole purpose to provide charitable services to aid disadvantaged communities worldwide." JB Dondolo Inc. is named after her father, JB Dondolo, and the non-profit promotes and develops projects that stimulate growth and improve people’s lives in low-income areas. Mlambo has been married for 30 years and has two sons.
Guest, Cary Deuber, Lumbie Mlambo, Stephanie Hollman attend the Equanimity Awards 2016. Photo by Kleone Young
RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH LUMBIE MLAMBO
Q; Where do you go or what do you do to around town to relax, recharge and reconnect?
A: I spend time with my family watching old movies at home. There is nothing like relaxing at home in your comfortable clothes. Also, I love coffee so to relax I sometimes find myself at Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks.
Q: What are your 3 favorite Dallas restaurants?
A: Applebee’s: I love their mashed sweet potatoes and moist chicken breast. Red Robin: I love their crispy chicken salad and sweet potato fries. Gather Kitchen: I love everything. I get to pick my own ingredients and make a meal. If it doesn’t takes good, I only have myself to blame.
Q; What are your favorite Dallas stores to shop?
A: Kohl’s! Every time I shop at Kohl’s I get cash back. So, I’m constantly going back to buy more. It’s never ending but I love it! Dillards because I love the way their outfits look on me. And I love their beautiful shoes. And Macy’s because I love how their pants fit me. When I really need a nice pair of pants, I know I can find them at Macy’s.
Q: What's your favorite Dallas festival or event?
A: Grapevine Main Street Fest: I love the food. The turkey drumsticks and roasted corn are my favorite. You get to sample all types of food and appreciate the cooks for their efforts. I also love The State Fair of Texas. This is a place where you hear about crazy fried foods never heard of before. You get to eat things you avoid in your daily routine, but it’s ok and fun to get out of your comfort zone. Lastly, I enjoy the Dallas International Film Festival. This event showcases great talents, both known and unknown. You get to watch all sorts of movies and appreciate the effort that these talents put into the making of the films.
Q: When I say "Dallas" what 3 words immediately come to mind?
A: Cowboys, Stockyards, Roads
Q: What is one Dallas tourist attraction every local should experience?
A: Fort Worth Stockyards
Q: Tell me something about you that most people don't know.
A: I like magic and I think I could be a good and very rare magician. Time will tell, LOL!
Q: What do you think makes Dallas such a great place to live, work and raise a family?
A: Dallas offers great opportunities for all sorts of employment. A lot of companies have opened up businesses and therefore created new jobs. Also, a lot of people have moved in, settled, and started families.
In line with Mlambo's values and ongoing desire to give back to the community, Equanimity has a powerful philanthropic aspect as well. The magazine stages a yearly charitable gala for JB Dondolo, Inc. to help raise funds and to acknowledge and award people who serve and make an impact in their communities. Hosted by musician Daniel Dodd-Ellis and WFAA’s Alanna Sarabia co-host of Good Morning Texas, this year's Equanimity Awards Benefit Gala will take place on July 28 and award change makers in the community. Awards will be presented throughout the evening to honor citizens who are using their platforms to make change in the world. Entertainment will be provided by country singer IMAJ, musician/songwriter TOLU, and comedian Alfred Kainga. Proceeds from the gala will specifically go towards Phase II of the Hospital Hope Project, which will entail fixing and building new structures at the Igusi Clinic in Umguza, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe. This effort will impact a community of 20,000 people. Click HERE for more information or to purchase tickets.