King David alumnus’s life story an inspiration

Ariella Levin Fine shared her life story of overcoming deafness with New Beginnings on Saturday, 27 July.

At just 26 years old, Fine has already lived a life that exemplifies resilience, grit, and grace. In her talk, titled “Mind over matter”, she related how she was born profoundly deaf, and received her first cochlear implant at the age of two and a second at five. From those early challenges, she grew into a determined and capable young girl who studied successfully mainstream at King David Linksfield School, where she later matriculated.

Her journey didn’t stop there. With a clear idea of what she wanted to achieve and a deep commitment to helping others, she pursued studies in biokinetics, and now works as a qualified biokineticist in a thriving practice in Johannesburg. Her story isn’t only of overcoming adversity, but of thriving in the face of it.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, she recently celebrated a joyful milestone in her personal life – her marriage to a wonderful partner who shares and supports her passion for health, movement, and achievement.

Fine also finds freedom and focus in the water. An avid long-distance swimmer, she has completed the challenging Robben Island swim multiple times, a feat few can claim. Swimming isn’t just a hobby, but a symbol of her strength, endurance, and ability to push through barriers.

What made her talk at New Beginnings so impactful wasn’t just her story, but the authenticity and warmth with which she told it. With a natural charisma and an infectious zest for life, she captivated her audience, many of whom were deeply moved and inspired by the way she has turned obstacles into opportunities.

She spoke candidly about her early struggles, the support she received, and the mindset that carried her through, always choosing to focus on what could be done, rather than what couldn’t. Her message was clear: with determination, support, and belief in oneself, anything is possible.

Fine is quite simply, an inspiration, not just to those who face challenges, but to all of us who sometimes forget the power of perseverance and the beauty of a life lived fully.