Back in the Spotlight: Sarah Lahbati on confidence, resilience, and her showbiz comeback

When Sarah Lahbati revealed her pregnancy in 2012, her career took a dramatic swing that presented both joy and challenges. At the height of her career, she chose to step away from the limelight to focus on her growing family. The news was met with mixed reactions, but Sarah embraced the new chapter with dignity and courage. She welcomed her first son, Zion, with then-partner Richard Gutierrez, and later, their second son, Kai.

“I've discovered a depth of love I didn't know existed until my children came into my life. A mother's love is indescribable,” she reflects. “I am willing to do anything for them, and I constantly strive to show them that my love for them will only continue to grow.”

Over the years, as she took on new roles, different challenges came to the surface. As a mother of two boys, her heart breaks every time she leaves them for work. “I’m grateful to be blessed with so much work that allows me to provide for my children, which is my number one priority, but it comes with the heartbreak of lost time away from them,” she said. Yet, she finds solace in a simple truth: “Everything I do is for them and their future. Nothing matters more to me than family.”

Her recent split from Gutierrez ushered in another set of hurdles. Sarah Lahbati had to navigate the complexities of co-parenting and help her children adjust to the new family dynamics. “Despite any imperfections that may arise, my approach to mothering them remains unchanged, and they feel and understand this deeply,” she reflects. Ultimately, she also had to face a pain in her heart. “My biggest lesson has been that ‘love can end’. Despite the pain, I’ve learnt it’s okay to start again, to believe that love still exists.”

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As is often the case in show business, the breakup quickly became fodder for local news and tabloids. It even sparked rumours about her tendency to indulge in extravagant spending. Sarah, with her characteristic grace, laughs it off, saying, “I believe there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself as long as you're rational about it.”

One of her cherished treasures is her ability to maintain a positive mindset amid negativity. “People will always have something to say, regardless of your actions, and I simply don’t have time for that when there are so many beautiful things happening in my life to focus on.”

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The much-anticipated return of Sarah Lahbati to show business with the series Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa came during a challenging time in her life, yet she also sees this as a “beacon of light”. She plays the role of Mercy Balmores, the daughter of a judge with a tainted past. “Mercy constantly faces bullying, manipulation, and control from her father, yet she remains steadfast in fighting for what is right despite the challenges,” she describes. “It has allowed me to creatively explore and embody a character with whom I sometimes find personal resonance.”

Despite her strengths, Sarah admits to grappling with the pace of her busy life. She finds solace in creative outlets like journaling and following practices that keep her focused. “I am open about the fact that I see a therapist. With all my responsibilities—being a working mom of two, a provider, and managing hectic work schedules—I find it crucial to stay grounded.”

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Self-care is another cornerstone of Sarah Lahbati's life, woven into her routine. Amid her hectic schedule, she sticks to a healthy diet, proper sleep, and tried-and-tested beauty treatments. Visits to her beloved beauty clinic, The Aivee Clinic, for solo pampering sessions are a non-negotiable part of her routine. 

For women on-the-go who want to look effortlessly stunning like her, she advises to prioritise skin care. Her beauty routine with Aivee Skin products, including the Aivee Lumi Cushion, Lip Kiss, and Lumi Mineral Powder, helps her achieve a polished and confident look. “I find that I don’t need multiple makeup items because, for instance, the Aivee Lumi Cushion serves as an excellent base and contour while also providing skincare benefits, just like the Lip Kiss and Lumi Mineral Powder.”

For Sarah Lahbati, feeling confident and empowered in her own skin is more than a priority—it’s a way of life. “After giving birth, I've come to appreciate my body's ability to create life, and part of that journey included accepting my stretch marks. Embracing them has been a powerful act of self-love and acceptance,” she shares. Her journey to self-acceptance and individuality aligns perfectly with The Aivee Clinic's values, where Sarah has found support in maintaining her inner and outer well-being.

Sarah is living proof of finding beauty in life’s twists and turns. “Making a comeback after having two amazing boys and starting fresh is something I really take pride in,” she says. Her story, marked by both struggles and successes, unfolds with inspiring grace and grit. From overcoming personal and professional hurdles to embracing new beginnings with an open heart, she continues to inspire: “My hope is to continue showing women that it’s okay to start over, to pursue their own careers, and to take charge of their lives.”

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