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Beyond Survival: Danielle Wiggins on Breast Cancer, Faith, and Learning to Live Again
Learn how Ohio TV journalist and breast cancer survivor Danielle Wiggins is approaching a significant milestone in her recovery.
Meet JournHE to the AltHER Participant Jasmaine!
One of the most significant lessons Jasmaine has taken from the program is learning how to treat herself.
Rediscovering Herself: Ayana’s Journey of Faith, Healing, and Preparing for Love
After years of believing marriage was not for her, Ayana Miller set out on a path that would challenge her understanding of love, identity, and the plans God has for her.
Beyond the Baby Registry: Bibi Babatunde-Ikotun’s Mission to Help People Prepare for the Realities of Parenthood
In her new book, The Parenting Playbook: Preparing Your Heart, Home, and Family for the Journey of Parenthood, Bibi Babatunde-Ikotun helps people prepare for more than a baby's arrival.
The Pain No One Believed: Esther’s Long Fight to Be Heard
Discover Esther’s long fight to be heard after years of debilitating pain, dismissal and misdiagnosis, leading to an endometriosis diagnosis and a plea for women’s pain to be taken seriously.
TWSC Series: Learning to Stand Tall - Meet JournHE to the AltHER Participant Serena Miller
“God makes all things beautiful in His time. Our timing is not God's timing, but God's timing is never late.” – Serena Miller
TBT: Gems from Lucky Ndanu's Story - Confronting Fear
What followed was fear, tears, surgery, and the loss of a breast—but also a deeper understanding of her strength, her body, and her purpose.
TWSC Series: JournHE to the AltHER - Meet Blossom Parkinson
Read about Blossom's journey to the altar that is still unfolding, and how her relationship with herself has changed.
Everyday Sheroes: How the Pain of Rejection Compelled this Woman to Rescue Over 600 Teen Mothers
How this woman turned the pain of rejection into advocary that has rescued over 600 teen mothers
TWSC Series: Getting to Know Cindel Pluviose - The Woman Behind JournHE to the AltHER
Keep reading to learn some interesting facts about Cindel Pluviose, the woman behind JournHE to the AltHER.
TBT: 7 Lessons from Elsie Wandera’s Endometriosis Journey
7 lessons from Elsie Wandera's endometriosis journey and how it inspired the Endometriosis Foundation of Kenya and a wider movement for awareness, advocacy, and better care.
TWSC Series: From Her Journey to the Altar to Helping Other Women Find Their Way
Discover how Cindel Pluviose turned her journey of faith, healing, marriage, and personal growth into JournHE to the AltHER, a mentorship for women.
When God Writes the Second Chapter: 5 Key Lessons From Ps. Sandra Baingana's Story
Every story of redemption begins with a moment of breaking. For Pastor Sandra Baingana, that breaking came through public confession, rejection, and the weight of being a single mother. What the world saw as an ending, God was quietly shaping into a beginning.
How to Have ‘The Talk’ With Your Young Ones
Talking to children about body image, sexuality, and puberty doesn’t have to be awkward. It’s an opportunity to affirm their worth and identity as God’s creation.
When the Time Is Right — “I, the Lord, Will Make It Happen.” (Isaiah 60:22)
After nine years of marriage and seemingly unanswered prayers, God brought a long-awaited blessing. A beautiful reflection on surrender, hope, and divine timing.
Confidence in Every Shade: Nancy Brittney’s Mission to Include Every Woman
From pageantry to beauty innovator, Nancy Brittney launches cosmetics line with 26 foundation shades focused on inclusivity and empowering women with albinism.
TBT: 5 Life Lessons We Can Learn from Teresa Njoroge’s Journey
Discover 5 powerful life lessons from Teresa Njoroge’s inspiring journey—from wrongful imprisonment to founding Clean Start. A story of resilience, faith, and second chances.
4 Lessons Life is Teaching Me About Friendships
Overcoming broken trust, I found freedom in redefining friendship. Here’s what I’ve learned about healing, boundaries, and connection.
She Lost Her Mom, Then Became One to Many
Dorothy Daka is a remarkable woman and our Everyday Shero. At just 27, she has not only carved out a promising career as the head of sales for a tour operator in Blantyre, Malawi, but she has also embraced a calling much deeper: motherhood in its most selfless form.
A Father's Day Tribute: To All My Fathers
My grandfather, whom I lovingly call Dad to this day, took it upon himself to shield and protect me as if I were his own child. He stepped into the role of my father when my mother returned to school, becoming my anchor and my hero.
Lessons from Roselyne's Journey
Roselyne’s story is raw and deeply inspiring. She could’ve stayed silent and let pain consume her. Instead, she used it to fuel a movement.
How Trauma May Be Affecting Your Relationships
Is past trauma preventing you from forming healthy relationships? Here's how you can show up in relationships while honouring your healing journey.
How My Curiosity and Empathy Paved the Way to Personal & Professional Success
My friends, my mom, and my sisters used to tell me I was “too caring.” They’d say, “It’s okay to care, but don’t go overboard, or you’ll end up hurt.” And they were right, in some ways. I have had my heart broken by friends, by boyfriends—but still, that instinct to care never left me.
Getting to Know Carlene A. John
Did you read Carlene's story? She is the kind of woman who defies labels. By day, she works in radiology, up long before the sun, putting in the kind of grind that pays the bills. But outside of scrubs and scanners, Carlene is a vibrant force of nature: a model, beauty enthusiast, and the proud daughter of West Indian roots who isn’t afraid to call herself “greedy” when it come
From Selling Sweets to Philanthropy: The Inspiring Journey of a Fashion Designer with a Heart for Her Community
It all started with a little girl selling sweets to help her family. Today, Sazini Tshuma is a well-known entrepreneur and philanthropist in Bulawayo. Get to know her.
Embracing: My Body
Growing up, I was just this bubbly ball of fire, so energetic. But when I got to high school, things changed. I experienced a lot of verbal bullying. At the time, I didn't really realize it was a form of bullying.
Embracing: My Voice
The biggest thing I didn't like was my voice because it came out with lots of authority, and sometimes, it felt as though I was commanding things.
4 Ways to Deal with Vulnerability Hangover as a Survivor
Are you dealing with vulnerability hangover? Discover four ways to care for yourself after sharing your survival story.
How This Fashion Model Is Defying Industry Norms & Championing Self-Acceptance
New York-based fashion model and Savage X Fenty Beauty Ambassador Carlene A. John shares her story of embracing vitiligo and how self-acceptance contributed to her success.
Embracing: My Post-Baby Body
Struggling to embrace your post-baby body? Here's a different perspective to help you learn to love your new body.
Embracing: The Colour of My Skin
Chandi Raeis one of the most dynamic women I've met. She walks boldly in her calling and is the visionary behind the Tell Your Story Conference, Vanish Board Healing Retreats, and Grown & Global Travel Group.
This Part of Your Story Matters
Does God seem silent when you're hurting? Find out how you can keep the faith and still praise Him in the midst of your storm.
Embracing: My Name
Dr. Praise Matemavi, transplant surgeon and associate professor of surgery at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, shares how she learned to embrace her name.
The Dark Side of My Knees
As I look down at my knees, I'm reminded of the pain and insecurity that have followed me for so long. The dark colour of my knees, a constant reminder of the abuse I suffered as a child, has become a symbol of my deepest insecurities.
Bibi Babatunde-Ikotun: How I learned to Own My Scars
Having a hard time embracing your flaws? Bibi Babatunde-Ikotun shares encouragement to women struggling to embrace physical imperfections.
APRIL: Celebrate What Makes You Different!
Celebrate what makes you, you this April on The Weight She Carries. Our differences make us special, unique, and strong!
Re-Defining Beauty as A Model with Albinism
Living with albinism? Nancy Brittney discusses albinism in the beauty industry and how she found love and learned to embrace her unique beauty.
Endometriosis Foundation of Kenya Founder Shares How Her Endo Journey Sparked National & Global Activism
Founder of the Endometriosis Foundation of Kenya Elsie Wandera shares how endometriosis pain threatened to cripple her life.
Thriving Through Pain - 13 Tips for Maintaining a Resilient Mindset with Endometriosis
Do you struggle with keeping a healthy mindset when you’re down with pain? Me too. It’s hard to see how things will work out for you when all you know is the disruption of pain, missed opportunities, canceled appointments, and false starts. Living with endometriosis is costly – socially, financially, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. It almost feels impossible to progress
A Mother’s Plea to Find Her Missing Daughter
Imagine going through an entire day not knowing what happened to your only child. This is the nightmare that Letty Mpofu is living through.
How This Survivor Used ‘Healing Through Language’ As a Form of Therapy
Tracy Masocha, a published author and survivor of sexual, emotional, and physical abuse, is advocating writing as a form of therapy towards healing.
XOXO: Dear Hurting Human
Anytime my body flares up and the pain is intense, I always think about other people living with chronic illness. And today, I can’t help but write to you, dear hurting human.
Story Update: A Dream Come True for Flavour Joy
Do you remember Queen Joy Katwesige? The remarkable multi-award-winning advocate with a mission to see a generation free of stigma and gender-based violence. Well, we have an exciting update for you. We first introduced Queen Joy, also known as Favour Joy, to you back in January. At the time, she was living in the orphanage where she had grown up with about 40 other children. H
Join Us for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2024
Take a stand and be part of the solution! Play an active role in putting an end to gender-based violence by joining Southern Afrika Dialogue (SOADI), in partnership with The Weight She Carries, in the fight against GBV.
Angela Mutie: "How God Restored My Heart"
Today, Angela’s story has come full circle. Six years after choosing herself and her son, she is now happily married to a wonderful man who loves her deeply. The couple married in August 2024. I asked Angela to share their beautiful love story.
God’s Ways are Not Our Ways
I would read Matthew 6:33 half-heartedly. I was afraid that God would fail me. I saw my mother work hard in serving God and in her business, but we still went without food sometimes, missed out on rent and were sent home for lack of school fees.
Inspiration: Meet Boxing Champion Monica 'Savage' Mkandla
Monica Mkandla, the recently crowned champion of the World Boxing Association Pan Africa Bantamweight, is a 25-year-old Zimbabwean boxer who lives in South Africa.
Essential Considerations for Your Therapy Journey
First, you need to identify your pain. Are you experiencing mental or emotional turmoil that’s inhibiting your daily functions for more than a week?
Young Woman Born with HIV Empowers Other HIV+ Women: “Be Vibrant and Never be Afraid to Speak Up”
From childhood, l was on medication that l was required to take daily. The relatives l lived with would always emphasize that l should take the medication diligently.
Everyday Sheros: Iris Nozizwe Zemza Mhlanga
Nozizwe Mother of Nations Trust was formally established in 2018 by lris Nozizwe Zemza Mhlanga, a pharmacologist turned philanthropist.
Trusting the Therapeutic Process Even When It Feels Uncertain
“Healing from trauma can sometimes feel like you are always playing catch-up in life. Slow down, don’t rush, and trust the process.”
To Love is to Accept Care
Living with a chronic illness is teaching me that a self-reliant mindset can be dangerous. We need people; we’re wired for connection, and it’s okay to receive help.
With Love from a Fellow Endo-Warrior
I thought severe cramps before, during, and after ovulation were normal. So, I dismissed them as such. A week before my periods, I would experience excessive back pain, throwing up, and a running tummy all at the same time. I would have flu symptoms and just think my immune system was down. Because these symptoms affected my whole body, I didn't know that it was endometriosis.
Endo-Warrior ‘Barbs the Emotional Alchemist’ Speaks on Social Stigma & Learning to Be Kind to Herself
I think my hysterectomy was one of the final stages because the endometriosis had spread to other parts of my body. In 2010, half of my bladder was cut off. The disease also spread to my appendix, and I had an appendicectomy in 2012. It also spread to my spinal cord. So, mine progressed to other organs.
Two Relationships, Two Different Types of Grief: Rebuilding My Life After Heartbreak
A woman shares how she processed grief and rebuilt her life after heartbreak.
My Endo Journey: I Am Not My Diagnosis
The month of March is endometriosis awareness Month. Endometriosis is a medical condition where tissue similar to that which normally lines the uterus, grows on other parts of the body. It’s a chronic illness that affects 1 in 10 women globally. I am among the women living with Endometriosis.
How I Found the Courage to Leave a Polygamous Marriage and Pursue My Dreams
At the age of 15, Mary became the fourth wife to a man three times her age. It later became evident that this was not the life for her. She wanted more out of life and dreamed of going back to school. Today, she stands on the other side of that dream having achieved an impressive 20 points in her Advanced Level exams last year. She desires to pursue a degree in law. This is her
Embracing Healing: A Personal Journey Through Therapy
"Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate." - Carl Jung
I Started School at 14; Now I Hold a Degree and Run a Business
Business started early for Beatrice Mulanshi. She started out as a kidpreneur who began baking and selling at the age of ten to help her mother put food on the table and hopefully raise enough to pay her school tuition. She now runs a small business called Prestigious Scone.
Meet Agricultural Engineer, Dairy Trainer & Motivational Speaker Miriam Mapako
Miriam Mapako is an agricultural engineer and dairy trainer specializing in mastitis control in dairy parlours. She is also a personal development transformational speaker and thought-provoking content writer.
Forgiving an Unspeakable Offence
Jane Awour never imagined that the end of her marriage would be marked by a vicious acid attack that would require 28 reconstructive surgeries.
Everyday Sheros: Cathrine Banda
Cathrine Banda has embarked on a solo philanthropic mission of improving her community one step at a time. With a great vision and a big heart, she has become the go-to person in her community whenever there is a need.
Meet HIV/AIDS Activist Who is Living Boldly and Victoriously
My name is Joy Katwesige, also known as Favour Joy across social media platforms. l am a woman born and living with HIV.
How Trusting God’s Leading Led Me To Purpose & A Thriving Ministry
If there is one thing I know it's that each time God gives us an assignment, He will always provide for it.
My Journey to Motherhood As an HIV+ Woman
Every HIV-positive woman wants to bear an HIV-negative child, and because of improved science, it is indeed possible to have an HIV-negative child as long as your viral load is undetectable.
In-depth Story: Picking Up the Pieces After an Abusive Marriage
We often go to great lengths to preserve the image of a happy home because of the social standing marriage affords us. We know that married women are viewed as having greater “value” and garner more respect than women who are single, widowed, or divorced, and we want that. But sometimes we are left with no choice.
From Kidpreneur to Seasoned Businesswoman: Navigating Success & Heartbreak
Pretty Dube has become a popular face in the streets of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, over the years with her trolley of lunch boxes filled with colourful sweets and a smile to go with it.
Author & Life Coach Evermore Kangani: “Success Comes in Layers”
Evermore Kangani is a published author of Power of Prayer and Beauty for Ashes. She is a professional life coach, cohost of a relationship show, a leader, nurse, and minister of the Word. She seeks to heal the world through Christ and helps people discover and use their spiritual gifts.
Award-winning Businesswoman Victoria Gazi Takes Us Back to the Beginning
Victoria Gazi is a dynamic, accomplished yet humble 26-year-old entrepreneur who describes herself as an accountant by profession, a marketer at heart, and an entrepreneur by choice. She runs three businesses and was the second runner-up in the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce Businesswoman of the Year award for Matabeleland South.
Broken But Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series - Understand that Life is Unfair, but be Fair Anyway
Life has a way of dealing us cards that seem profoundly unfair. For some of us, those cards include the heavy burden of childhood sexual trauma, an experience that leaves scars that run deep. But did you know that in the face of life's unfairness, we have a choice—to let our wounds define us or to rise above them?
Rumbidzai Mutendera: How I Found Restoration & Purpose After Divorce
Finding out that my husband had another woman when l was pregnant with our second child really broke me. All l wanted was a successful marriage, and so l prayed for God's intervention in the hopes that my husband would relent and come back to me. But that was not the case. Clearly, God had other plans to restore me to the person l was born to be.
Getting to Know the Woman behind Shamiso Consultancy International
Shamiso Kenneth-Zuro is many things, but her identity as a child of God tops her list. She describes herself as a Christian and pastor who practices compassion ministry, teaches revelatory insight, and translates hard-hitting spiritual insights into everyday language that empowers individuals to activate purpose and maximize potential.
3rd Annual Coffee for Champions to be Held this Friday
Peperusha Binti is back this year for another sickle-cell fundraiser event taking place this month at the Royal City Hotel in Kisumu, Kenya.
Losing My Love 30 Days Before Our Wedding
Memory Matsvimbo is a woman who has risen from grief and became someone she never thought she could be. This is her story:
Caroline Kagia Discusses Family Triggers & Challenges Women Face Maintaining Sobriety
Caroline Kagia isn’t new around here. And if you’ve been hanging with us for a while, you’ll recognize her name. We first featured her story on The Weight She Carries backin 2019. And what a remarkable story she has – one that delves deep into the hidden realities of addiction and reveals just how tight its grip can be.
Finding My Voice: Overcoming Trauma and Depression
For a period in her life, Roselyne Wandaki lived with two family members whom we will call Aunt Tina and Uncle Adam for the purposes of this story. The couple had grown children who were out of the home.
Consolata Kapuya Talks Living Authentically and Loving God Passionately
The above is an excerpt from one of Consolata Kapuya’s books, I Am Authentic. Her passion for God is palpable; her life is an open book, which makes her as authentic as one can get.
Leading with Pride, Passion & Poetry
Chidadiso Francesca Mbazo, whose first name means 'my pride' in the Shona language, is young but already making waves in her chosen field, the Arts. Driven by passion, she has proved that nothing will deter her.
Broken But Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series -Embrace God’s Freedom
God does not want us to labor for love. He loves us for who we are, His children. Unless I embrace His offer of love and grace, I’ll live my life laboring and begging for crumbs yet my Father owns the bakery.
Dr. Annia Gombakomba on Overcoming Fear & Success in Business
Dr. Annia Gombakomba is a lawyer who studied law at University of Bedfordshire and practises in the area of Immigration and family law. She is the legal, social and public adviser to many clergy including bishops and pastors, and is the legal adviser for The Women & Family Resource Centre, where she provides legal help and life coaching to women who are victims of domestic viol
Life, Ministry & My Miraculous Journey to Motherhood
Concillia Mudzi is a woman who loves God and whose mission is to make a difference in the lives of people she meets. She is driven by the desire to showcase the love of God to all the people that come her way. We caught up with Concillia to find out more about her.
From Newlywed to Widow: How Sharing my Story Led to Healing and Purpose
The ink had barely dried on their marriage certificate when her life was thrust into an abyss of confusion, loss and despair. Many whom she sought comfort from turned their backs and wanted nothing to do with her. It took five years to garner the courage to share her story. Once she did, the weight slowly began to lift.
Getting Up Close and Personal with Founder of The Tanyaradzwa Initiative
Tanyaradzwa Guta describes herself as a passionate feminist with an accounting qualification. She is affiliated with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), holds a Diploma in Mental Health, Human Rights & Recovery from the United Nations World Health Organization, and a Certificate in Social Accountability Monitoring for Adolescents and Young People’s Sexual
Serial Author Busisekile Khumalo Opens up about Early Years & Her Love for Penning African Stories
Busisekile "Busie" Khumalo desribes herself as a vivacious reader who fell in love with books when she was in Grade 4.
Bouncing Back Stronger Than Ever After an Abusive Marriage
To onlookers, Vivian Moyana (née Munjanja) embodied success. She was pursuing her MBA, climbing the corporate ladder and had a beautiful family. What they couldn't have imagined was the private battle raging within the four walls of her home. After enduring years of abuse in a toxic marriage, she mustered the strength to leave. This is her story:
Award-winning Coach Jessie Mhaka Opens up About Overcoming Clinical Depression, Anxiety & Chronic Stress
Jessie’s journey is one of compounded strength. She recently shared with The Weight She Carries how she has survived clinical depression, an anxiety disorder and chronic stress.
How I Started a Business with Just $20
Many men and women are becoming business owners and making a mark in their chosen industries. We spoke to a young woman named Rumbidzai Patricia Marodza, who became an entrepreneur after her marriage almost fell apart due to strained finances in the home. This is her story:
Savvy Businesswoman Thelma Chimbganda Shares Her Journey Through the Highs & Lows of Entrepreneurship
Thelma Chimbganda is our kind of woman. Her take on life and the tenacity she has demonstrated in being a serial entrepreneur and navigating the failures along the way are just what we need to start the week! Get to know who she is by reading her entrepreneurial journey.
Getting to Know Mental Health Advocate & Businesswoman Blessing Masola
Blessing Lulwama Masola is an award-winning social worker who is passionate about mental health and recently scooped a ZimTrade Social Impact 2022 award.
Starting Over: How I Walked Away From Abuse into an Unknown Future
Broken-hearted, bitter and lost, I walked into an unknown future - a future which was uncertain. I had let marriage become a huge part of my identity, and I was not sure what would be next, but I walked away anyway.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - Growing up an Orphan
The other day l was giving out a lecture to my son on how blessed he is for having two parents living together because l never had that. I insist that he be grateful and thank God for that beautiful blessing, we might not have much or be able to provide him with everything that he needs at the moment but nonetheless, he should look around him and be thoughtful of others without
The Rose Gift Foundation Co-founding Director Patience Tarumbwa to Speak at Upcoming Empowerment Seminar this Weekend
Period poverty remains one of the major setbacks in girl-child emancipation in Zimbabwe. A study by SNV Zimbabwe shows that 72% of adolescent schoolgirls do not use sanitary products simply because they cannot afford them. It further states that 62% of schoolgirls are forced to miss school every month due to the lack of sanitary wear.
Filmmaker Amanda Ranganawa Talks Latest Film 'Depth of Emotions'
Lights, Camera, Action! That's all I can say to sum up Amanda Ranganawa's everyday life. The young filmmaker has written over 15 scripts, some of which have already been sold and produced. Others are yet to make it to the big screen.
Righteous Chawane Takes on Fashion World as SITA Head of Delegation for South Africa
Whenever we are faced with a trying situation, we have two options: crumble and give in or rise up and turn our pain into positivity. Righteous Chawane is a woman who chooses to do the latter.
TWSC Story Update: Constance Garawaziva - "Opportunity Met me at my Lowest"
We first got to know Constance Garawaziva back in 2020 when she shared her story of healing from heartbreak and tragedy. If you missed her story, you'll want to read it first here. Constance is back with us today to give us an update on some new developments in her life.
Meet Providence Moyo: Founder of Divine Pro
Providence Moyo describes herself as a Bulawayo-based entrepreneur, Christian and mother of two. Her business ventures include nutritional food and beverage manufacturing, and she sits on the board of Divine Pro Foundation, which seeks to change the lives of orphans, vulnerable women and youth.
Meet Writer, Author Margaret Chideme
Margaret Chideme has turned her love for writing into a collection of poems based on her life. We wanted to learn more about her blog, Maggie's Diary, and the inspiration behind her book First Thirty. So we asked Margaret to tell us who she is in her own words.
Everyday Sheros: Fadzai Mavindidze Creating Smiles and Opportunities for Underprivileged Kids
My name is Fadzai Mavindidze, born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. I am a mother of three. For the past 10 years, I have been living and working in the corporate world in the United States. But as they say, home is where the heart is, and that is the case for me.
Meet Self-Taught Chef Nombini Dingela
Nombini Dingela is a 36-year-old single mother to an amazing 17-year-old boy and a self-taught chef. The loss of her father four years ago inspired her to finally take her love of cooking to the next level. Since then, Nombini has covered significant ground and received recognition as a businesswoman.
Determined to Succeed: How I Rose From Tragedy to Triumph
Irene Kendi is an outstanding woman who has faced many challenges but rose above them all. Her childhood was marred by the rejection of her father and the poverty that ensued. There would be tougher days ahead, but Irene refused to let her circumstances dictate her destiny.
Tired of Fighting for Your Dream? Four Female Doctors in History who Will Inspire You
Do you ever feel like you’re fighting a losing battle in the pursuit of your dreams? If you are feeling this way today, you’ve in good company.
Community Care Trust Founder: “Always do What Your Heart Tells You”
People whose hearts have experienced the deepest heartache are often the most giving. Georgina Georgetta Shaban is the executive director of Community Care Trust, an organization that focuses on helping those in need and empowers women, orphans and youth by teaching them entrepreneurial skills.
From Humble Beginnings to Phenomenal Doctor
Dr. Thandeka Ngcobo is a 29-year-old South African medical doctor who graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery against all odds.
Women’s Rights Activist Elizabeth Iweanoge: “Every Woman is Entitled to her Dream”
Elizabeth Iweanoge is at the forefront of making sure women in her sphere of influence know their worth and are treated with dignity, equality and respect.
A Second Chance at Life – Pt 2: Finding Love as an HIV+ Woman
A couple of weeks ago, Precious Mwewa Kaniki shared her story of contracting HIV at age 14 and struggling to adhere to treatment until a medical crisis jolted her into action.
Getting to Know Dr. Ratidzo Mutangadura
A few weeks ago, we published a story about the outstanding phenomenon that is Dr. Ratidzo Mutangadura and her charity called Chengetai.
My Passion Paved the Way
Lynn Mazerenganwa is a multi-talented woman who isn't afraid to go after her dreams. Her love for public speaking led to a remarkable opportunity that changed her life. She opened up to The Weight She Carries about how, at just 26, her passion, dedication and hard work opened doors for her.
A Second Chance at Life
I tested positive when I was just 14 years old. Honestly, it came as a huge shock to me, and I quickly went into denial mode, which caused me to withdraw from all my family and friends. I was very lonely. There was no one to talk to.
Dr. Kwanele Kunene: My Teacher Said I'd Never Become a Doctor; I Did
Dr. Kwanele Kunene defied the odds when she chose to follow her dreams and reject the voices of those who didn't believe she had what it took to become a doctor. Today, she holds a PhD in chemistry and runs an NGO called Zosukumizizwe with her twin sister. This is her story:
In-depth Story: Lucky Unganqotshwa Mthembu - Rebuilding my Life After an Abusive Relationship
I was engaged to a person who was very abusive emotionally, physically and financially. At the onset of the relationship, he was extremely loving, attentive and the future seemed bright for us.
My Journey from Unplanned Pregnancy to University Graduate, Author & Founder of Help One Helper
Ntombizodwa is a former domestic worker, university graduate and author of the book Brightness of Diamonds through Soil. She is also the founder and director of the non-profit organization Help One Helper, and above all, a mother to a 17-year-old daughter.
How Former Swimming Sensation Dr. Ratidzo Mutangadura is Empowering Girls and Encouraging Men to Join Conversations on Menstruation
Dr. Ratidzo Mutangadura grew up in a Christian, middle-class family in Harare, Zimbabwe, where she, along with her two sisters, were encouraged to excel in whatever they set out to do.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - What's in your Hand
August is my birthday month. It's times like these that really get me thinking about how far I have come and how much I have grown, not only physically but mentally, socially and spiritually.
Award-winning Film Writer, Actress Amanda Ranganawa on Living her Dream
Amanda Ranganawa is a filmmaker, corporate model, brand ambassador and actress. As an Honours in Theatre graduate from the University of Zimbabwe, Amanda has proven to be an undeniable talent and is the writer of the multi-award-winning film Kushata kweMoyo, which was aired on DStv Channel Africa Magic.
Becoming Farie Jules: How I Overcame Child Marriage, Depression & Divorce
Farai Juliet Magada, known as Farie Jules, is a daughter, sister, mother, survivor, fighter, believer, emancipated woman, creative, philanthropist and lover of beautiful things. This is her story in her own words.
In-depth Story: Surviving a 769-km Journey on Foot to Safety
Anita Grace is a South Sudanese woman with incredible wisdom and a powerful story. Seeing the woman she is today, it’s hard to imagine the horrors she has lived through.
From Pain to Gain: How Recovering from Heartbreak Birthed my Business
Kerita “Kerri” Choga is a 35-year-old entrepreneur who is also a medical lab technician by profession. She is a free-spirited woman who enjoys life and is often misunderstood because of her opinions on life in general. She’s a passionate woman who takes business seriously and always pushes for the best.
Everyday Sheroes: Thandeka Mahlangu - Using Art to Transform my Community
My talent to draw was revealed very early in my life. At school I would always draw better than anyone. Even if I had tried to take art seriously at the time, there was not enough money for me to get the proper tools to work with, and there was no art shop to begin with. And so I used whatever I could find to draw.
Meet the Woman Behind Ivy's Kitchenette
Ivy Mango Chatora, who is based in the UK, has turned her childhood passion into a thriving business and loving every part of it. As the woman behind Ivy's Kitchen, she has forged her own path by creating a multifaceted business that incorporates what she loves: food and decor.
Redefining my Future After Heartbreak, Trauma & Depression
Sharon Mashaba is a 25-year-old brave, resilient and smart young woman whose goal is to reach greater heights. She is from a small village called Shigamani in Limpopo and as a survivor of sexual trauma and depression, is determined to never allow her past experiences stand in the way of her dreams.
Dr. Mejury Chipato on Overcoming Rejection & Rising from an Impoverished Community
Mejury Chipato has many roles. She is a medical doctor, microbiologist, pastor, entrepreneur, businesswoman, philanthropist, leader, mentor, author and life and business coach. She has also won multi-awards, including the Zimbabwe Achievers Awards and has been honoured by The International Internship University (India) as one of the Most Inspiring Woman of The Earth awardees an
Brenda Ndlovu: From Teen Mom to Accomplished Radio Producer & MC
Brenda Ndlovu, also known as MaBrrr because of her positive and energetic vibes on radio, is a warm-hearted, bubbly, self-driven woman who desires to see other women unlock their potential and exceed limitations. Brenda was born and raised in Bulawayo, the second-largest city in Zimbabwe.
Reclaiming My Health After Debilitating Pain & Loss
From the time she was 13 years old, Jemimah Nzisa suffered debilitating pain, excessive vomiting and heavy bleeding each month during her menstrual period. In fact, she often had to seek treatment from a hospital nearby just to manage the pain and address her dehydration. It wasn’t until years later that she was diagnosed with fibroids and sadly lost a pregnancy to it.
How This Medical Student is Pursuing Her Dreams & Shaping Young Leaders
Shylette Ngwenya is a medical student who describes herself as a smart young woman who will stop at nothing when it comes to achieving her goals.
Why This Former Single Mom Tells Others to Never, Ever Give up on Love
Cecy K is a lively YouTuber from Namibia who shares her life experiences and insight on a variety of topics ranging from life in Namibia to single parenting. In addition to meaningful discussions about life and relationships, her YouTube channel is peppered with light-hearted videos of her doing the latest TikTok challenges or dancing with her kids. It’s evident that this fun-l
The Force Behind Miss Twin Sisters
Twins Rutendo Yolanda and Rumbidzai Olinda Taruvinga grew up in a high density suburb called Budiriro in Harare, Zimbabwe. Although they later moved to Westgate, the twins consider Budiriro home.
TWSC Submission: Healing from Extreme Betrayal
Everything changed when I was about 11 years old. My parents began having conflict and my father ended up moving out of our home, leaving my mother to take care of seven children single-handedly. The eldest was 13 and the youngest was still breastfeeding. I was the third eldest. My dad sold the house we were living in and left us all quite desperate.
Everyday Sheros: Raising Two Children with Albinism & Supporting Countless Others
Most of us have come across sad, unbelievable stories surrounding albinism more than once in our lives. From babies being killed soon after death, to ritual killings and children being hidden in their homes.
In-depth Story: Finding My Way Back to God After Vowing Never to Pray Again
A series of tragedies led to her bold proclamation, ‘I will never again pray to this God.’ The pain was too severe for words. She was saved, so why was her life so difficult?
"I Started High School at 20; Now I have a PhD in Commercial Law"
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. (Psalm 126:5) That's the scripture I thought of when I listened to Dr Julieth's story. My eyes filled with tears as she narrated to The Weight She Carries how her journey towards her doctorate has been.
Getting to Know HIV Activist & Entrepreneur Susan Wairimu
A few months ago, we published a story about HIV activist Susan Wairimu. She talked about the challenges of finding love as an HIV-positive woman. But what impressed us the most was how determined she is to never lower her standards simply because of her status.
Undeterred: Zimbabwean Musician Chipo Muchegwa
As l was lazily scrolled through Facebook one day, l came across a video and was so moved by this young lady's voice that l knew I had to speak to her. Chipo Muchegwa was born without arms and has short limbs, but this has not deterred her from making her mark in the music industry.
My Mental Health Journey as a Caregiver
As a journalist and radio personality, it's much easier for me to take a recorder or pen and interview a source. It's much simpler to hear someone's story and imagine being in their shoes. One of the hardest things I have had to do is write about myself. It’s just difficult to admit you have a problem and you need a solution for it.
Fashion Creative Tendai Marowa Talks Ambition, Drive & Empowerment
Tendai Marowa is a fashion creative, former Miss Cosmos 2012 -2013, former national mentor for Miss Cosmos South Africa and founder of The Legacy Of True Beauty. Born in Zimbabwe but now based in South Africa, Tendai is also officially Ms Cosmos Zimbabwe 2022-2023 as well as the brand ambassador for End Girl Hate: Bringing Women Together.
Fun Facts: Epic Women Legends - the First Women Boston Marathon Runners
It's the weekend and we're in a celebratory mood. We've been waiting all week for a reason to celebrate and here we are. We've been trying to tell you that women rock and we're coming through with even more proof! Check out two epic women in marathon history and tell us what you think!
In her Shoes: Hagar and the Spring - Pt.1
Hagar was a foreigner and a slave. As Sarah’s maidservant, she had one job – to attend to Sarah. Biblical scholars believe Hagar was one of the servants given to Abraham in Egypt when Pharaoh took Sarah for himself (Genesis 12:16).
Certified Addictions Professional Caroline Kagia Pens First Book "Still I Rise"
Caroline Kagia is not new to The Weight She Carries. She has shared her story with us and is a regular contributor. She is very candid about her struggles with alcoholism in the past and her recovery journey.
Interview w/ Marsha McWilson Pt. 3 - Meeting & Working w/ Tyler Perry
Marsha McWilson is a recording artist, TV actress, motivational speaker, certified hair stylist AND the FIRST Black woman to be inducted into the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame!!!
My Journey with HIV & Surviving Cervical Cancer
My name is Precious Shongwe. I am from Eswatini, a woman openly living with HIV and a mother of two adorable kids: a boy aged 16 and a girl aged 9. I am also an activist and a cervical cancer survivor.
Interview w/ Loyiso Lindani Pt. 2 - How HIV Saved My Life
In Part 2 of my interview with Loyiso Lindani, she talks about the day she was diagnosed with HIV, how she processed the news, the impact it had on her relationships and why she says HIV saved her life.
Chenesai Monera: Passion, Purpose & Photography
Chenesai Monera is a creative and socialite at heart who enjoys the company of people, positive influences and all things media-related. She is also a Christian and enjoys God and the things of God.
Dr. Mary Wanjiku Gichuhi: From Domestic Abuse Survivor and Refugee to Serial Best Selling Author, Celebrated Speaker & PhD Holder
Almost five years ago, Mary Wanjiku Gichuhi fled Kenya for safety in the Netherlands. She fled to save her life and that of her unborn child after being stuck in a dysfunctional, toxic and abusive relationship for years. She only managed to leave with her passport and a spare cloth in a small bag. She was pregnant at the time.
Interview w/ Rose Tsalwa: From Tragedy to Triumph
Every now and then we come across someone whose story gives us all the feels. I had a wonderful time interviewing Rose Tsalwa and her story moved me. She possesses such strength and has survived some devastating lows in her life.
A Woman's Candid Battle with Depression, Anxiety & PTSD
Sasha Lee was knocked down but got up. She decided to not be bitter but to be brave, keep fighting and see the good. She didn’t let the hard stuff win. Sasha comes back to share her most candid experiences with depression and anxiety
From Small Town Girl to Thriving Businesswoman
Novuyo Hlabangana is a 27-year-old woman born and raised in Tsholotsho, Zimbabwe. She is the face behind Lucent Designs and has managed to fit in and thrive in the construction industry despite the challenges she has faced as a woman.
Fun Facts: Epic Women in History - Part 3
It’s Friday and we are back with another installment of our 'Epic women in History' series. In our past articles, we simply listed the women's names and their inventions/accomplishments.
Speak Out with Caroline: Single Motherhood & I
My journey into motherhood began at the age of 25. I must admit that it was quite a confusing and difficult time, considering that I was unmarried, a church girl and in the choir.
Meet Sizolwenkosi Mazolo: CEO & Founder of Ingcebethu Pvt Ltd.
Sizolwenkosi Mazolo is an accomplished 31-year-old woman who is the founder of a food processing business called Ingcebethu Pvt Ltd. She describes herself as a single Seventh-day Adventist Christian woman and a business strategist who studied business management and strategic management.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Dear Survivor
I’m sorry for what happened to you. It hurts, I can see. I see your desire to change your past. I can hear you asking, ‘Why?’ I see how exhausting it is to show up every day in masks that don’t fit you anymore. I see how fleeting control is to you. I see your lips moving, but I can’t hear your voice. Want a hug? Some water maybe? A walk in the park? I see your pain, dear surviv
Interview w/ Loyiso Lindani Part 1 - Unpacking Trauma
Loyiso Lindani has managed to turn challenging circumstances into a powerful story of survival, self-realization and self-acceptance.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Choosing Faith over Fear
I’m in the middle of a crisis as I write this. I was so tense a while ago I couldn’t eat. This feeling is so familiar. I want to quit, I just want to sit in a corner alone, with my eyes closed. I had a chat with my mom a while ago and what she shared threw me off balance. I didn’t anticipate any disruptions today. I had my day planned out, avoided some conversations to stay foc
Profile: Deborah Mbale
I am a self-motivated lady who’s a lastborn in a family of three girls. My dad is a pastor and my mom is a teacher by profession. I was born on December 12, 1999. I’m the founder and executive director at Mai Mbambande Foundation.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Learning to Appreciate my Body
I was supposed to write this in December. I even had an outline. But when I sat down to type out the words, my mind went blank. It was unbelievable. Where did the psych go? I lost it. My inner person was quiet and numb.
How Heartbreak, Shame & Rejection Birthed a Powerful Ministry
Today, Pastor Sandra Baingana is in full-time ministry, a mother of six and married to an amazing man, Mr. Innocent Baingana, whom she co-owns an engineering firm with. Her ministry, Road to Redemption Ministries, has catapulted to success within just two years of its existence and drawn nearly 50,000 followers from around the world on Facebook alone, and her church services ar
Interview w/ Mandisa Dukashe - Abundant Life and Love After HIV Diagnosis
Mandisa Dukashe is living with HIV and knows first hand the challenges that come with a positive diagnosis. In our interview, she talks about growing up with an absent mother, working as a child to provide for her siblings, being diagnosed with HIV and ultimately finding true love.
Loyiso Lindani on How HIV Saved her Life
We have all encountered heroes at some point in our lives: people who exude power, confidence and truth. Loyiso Lindani is one such hero to not only me but to many of those who have met her. Loyiso has managed to turn a challenging situation into a powerful story of survival, self-realisation and self-acceptance. She shared with The Weight She Carries how HIV saved her life.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Overcoming Fear
I grew up being fearful of men around me. It’s a fear that was imprinted in me after multiple childhood sexual violations. I was never fearful of my male friends though. But this changed after being assaulted sexually in a relationship. I would panic every time a man would stand next to me even for a second. I avoided busy streets and bus stops for fear of being touched inappro
Got Empty Cup Syndrome?
I see you, sis. You’ve spent so much of your life giving yourself to other people that when you do anything for yourself, it feels like you’re stealing. You feel so unsettled when you can’t respond to a text message immediately or take a call because you’ve been so available for so long. And now when you’re too busy to attend to someone else’s needs, or too tired, not only are
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - Love
As I was walking past a shop window in town, I was reminded that we are in the month of love. Red outfits, red roses, red wine – everything red!
A Love Story: Finding Love After Trauma & Addiction
Twenty-three years ago, Regina Chari’s life was very different from the one she enjoys today with her husband, Nyasha, and their two daughters.
HIV Activist Susan Wairimu Metta on Living with HIV and Dating: “I am not Lowering my Standards”
Many single people will tell you that dating in today’s world is ridiculously frustrating. For people living with HIV, the struggle of dating is amplified…to the 10th power. But don’t tell Susan Wairimu Metta to forget about love or that she should lower her standards just because she is HIV positive. The 40-year-old HIV activist is determined to live life to the fullest, and t
Getting to Know the Face Behind Hair by Tsitsi
Tsitsi Gwemba is a woman in her early 30s who describes herself as an example of God’s grace.
Broken But Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series - Verify Your Thoughts
I first knew that I had control over my thoughts in 2012. I had an unhealthy mindset, and this bothered me a lot. I wanted to change, but I didn’t know how to. I was tired of the heavy weight that I felt on my chest every day. My moods would get triggered so easily. It was annoying.
From Heartbreak to Healing & Finding Love as a Single Mother
In her early twenties, Ps. Sandra Baingana discovered that she was pregnant. Despite having been in a relationship with the father of her baby for many years, it became clear that she would be raising her child as a single mother. She was devastated, but over time, God healed her heart.
A Woman's Story of Finding True Love After Heartbreak
A pearl is a rare, valuable treasure that needs no polishing or cutting by man. Pearl Spilile Muguti, is a woman who has lived up to her name. She is a rare treasure and a strong lady who has gone through hardships in life that were meant to break her, but today she celebrates her strength and resilience. She is a 36-year-old mother of two, lives in South Africa and is the foun
Broken but Beautiful: Forgiveness Series - Grant Pardon
Pardon is a ticket or an official document given to a convict to release them from further punishment. Pardon is offered to those who accept responsibility for their crimes and have reformed characters. Convicts who receive pardon are restored to society and are allowed to enjoy the rights of citizenship in their country.
Everyday Sheros: Right to Mobility Founder Shares How She Stumbled into Charity Work
Yvonne Chikasha personifies the above quote by the wonderful and courageous work she is doing. She shared with The Weight She Carries how it all came together.
Speak Out with Caroline: Embracing the New
Change isn’t always easy. Many times though, it is inevitable and eventually works out for our good. Change could also come about as a result of choices we intentionally make. Choices that we will later look back on and be grateful for taking the bold step towards the freedom we have been searching for – knowingly or unknowingly.
Interview w/ Marsha McWilson on Childhood & Early Success
Marsha McWilson is a recording artist, TV actress, motivational speaker, certified hair stylist AND the FIRST Black woman to be inducted into the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame! In this clip we talk about her childhood and how she achieved success at a young age.
Stepping Out of my Comfort Zone: A Woman's Journey to the Top
My name is Mrs Beauty Kujinga, née Nhidza. I am a 35-year-old lady from the Gutu rural area, and I am married to a lovely husband, and we are blessed with one boy and two girls. I grew up in Gutu, and my mother passed away when I was only 10 years old. My father remarried a very kind lady whom I don’t see as a stepmother but my real mother. I am a site manager at a service stat
Interview w/ Mental Health Coach Faith Gor on Healing, Forgiveness & Upcoming Coaching Program
Earlier this week, I interviewed my friend and sister Faith Gor who is part of our TWSC team. I'm currently in Harare, Zimbabwe and on the day of the interview, we were in the middle of tropical storm Ana. Despite some issues with the video quality, Faith and I had a powerful, powerful conversation.
The Trouble with Sense - Part 1
The story of this religious leader and his remarkable faith leads me to wonder how many times I’ve missed out on a miracle because it didn’t make ‘sense’ to believe any longer.
Broken but Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series - We Own Our Scars; They Don't Own Us
Scars don’t bleed, they tell a story.
TWSC Submission: Starting Over as a Single Mother of 5
I am a mother of five. I was married very young and had my firstborn a few days before my 18th birthday.
Grace Anne: A Product of Personal Development
Grace Anne is a young woman, a visionary and an aspiring leader who seeks to make positive change in the society she lives in and beyond. She is the eldest child of two and said that she was shy and timid growing up.
Broken but Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series -Follow the Light You Have Received
In the previous article, we discovered that God is interested in reconciling with us and that we can come to Him just as we are. The next layer in forgiveness is not staying the way you are. It’s choosing to practise the truth you know in spite of how you were violated.
Breast Cancer Survivor Lucky Ndanu: “My Mastectomy was a New Beginning for me”
Lucky Ndanu was in her final year of college when she felt a lump in her right breast. Then came the diagnosis: breast cancer. She was only 22 and life was just beginning. The best course of treatment involved a mastectomy, her doctor advised. That was a hard pill to swallow. How would she look afterwards, she wondered? Eventually, she chose to look at the mastectomy as a new b
Beauty & Wellness Consultant Grace Zichawo Talks Growing Multiple Businesses
Grace Zichawo is a certified beauty, etiquette and wellness consultant, an entrepreneur and a spa educator. She is the founder a Grace Beauty Chic, a beauty shop that sells professional beauty and wellness products and provides wellness experiences and spa consulting in Harare, Zimbabwe. She is also the founder of Elite Wellness Consultancy, a subsidiary of the internationally
TBT: Gems from Nandipha's Story - Setbacks are Temporary
Can you imagine going back to high school in your 20s and having classmates who are 16/17 years old? That's what Nandipha Sithilanga did. She fell pregnant in Grade 10 and couldn't proceed with her education at the time. Her son had special needs, so she spent the next few years focusing on getting him the care he needed.
Empowered to Empower: How Chef Mhle Uses Her Skills to Inspire Community Development
Mhlelusizo Ncube, known as “Chef Mhle,” is a chef by profession and has evolved into an entrepreneur and community builder.
Readers' Choice: The 5 Most-read TWSC Stories of 2021
We’re just hours away from 2022, and we cannot wait to ring in the new year! We've got big plans for TWSC in the new year, and continuing to bring you content showcasing extraordinary women who have decided to rewrite their stories with God's help is definitely our goal.
How Finding her Identity in Christ Helped Angela Mutie Learn to Love Herself Again
Angela Mutie went from being a domestic violence victim to Mrs Universe Kenya 2018 for Machakos County. She first opened up to The Weight She Carries about surviving an abusive marriage back in 2019.
Celine Njoki's Encouraging Message to Survivors of Sexual Trauma: "You are a Masterpiece"
Celine Njoki has survived severe physical, sexual and emotional abuse at the hands of several people throughout her life. She was abused by family and “friends”, and gang rapped 3 times, with the most recent attack occurring in April 2018.
Multi-award Winning Model Ayanda Candice Sibanda: Learning to Love my Imperfections
Ayanda Candice Sibanda, a multi-award winning model and activist, narrates to The Weight She Carries how she has learned to embrace her imperfections despite what society had to say.
Re-loving my Body After Years of Sexual Exploitation
Grizelda Grootboom’s story is riveting. Her childhood came to an abrupt end when she was gangraped by four boys at age 11. What followed were years of living on the street. At 18, she was betrayed by someone she trusted and became trapped as a sex slave for many years. After what can only be described as sheer horror, Grizelda was finally able to escape that dark world.
#BodyPositivity Day 22: "You can Accept me for who I am or Keep it Moving"
LaTonia Tillman was a teenage when she first noticed some white spots on her skin. Following a series of tests, she was diagnosed with vitiligo. The news was crushing. After years of struggling to love herself wholly, she is now embracing her condition and encouraging others to do the same.
Re-loving my Body After Sexual Trauma, Body Shaming & Binge Eating
Looking back at my life, it always made sense that I had a terrible perspective of my own body – destructive even. When my body was put through so much from a young age – criticized, used and abused – I almost felt like my body deserved punishment in its own way. Equally so, I thought I was comforting my body just trying to cope. Truthfully, I was still being self-destructive.
TWSC Submission: Rebuilding After Tragedy -A New Lease on Life
It was 2 December 2017, a normal day when we all woke up and prepared for our daily work. As usual, we gathered as a team and praised God through songs and prayed for journey mercies. This working day involved shifting from one location of work to another, so our journey of more than 200 kilometres began.
Re-loving my Body After Losing my Baby and Womb
I remember the next day when I woke up after the surgery. I remember thinking that I was less of a woman. The womb defines a woman, and that is what came to the front of my mind. I felt crushed. I felt that I had suffered a major loss. I compared it to the loss of a person. I saw it as a dual loss – the loss of a baby plus the loss of a uterus.
#BodyPositivity Day 16: "Childlessness does not define me"
When Editah Hadassa married her husband nearly 15 years ago, she didn’t expect to have any difficulty having children. But as the years went by, it became clear that she was having trouble conceiving. Though she had the full support of her husband and family, she felt stigmatized by her community.
GBV Survivor & KRT Founder: Speaking Out Changed my Life
My name is Tatenda Nyakutya. I am a lady who is in her early 30s born in a family of five: two girls and three boys. I’m a mother to many children, though I have one biological daughter and several adopted children. I come from a strong Christian background because my parents are pastors, and that is where I draw my philanthropic nature from.
#BodyPositivity Day 15: Allow Yourself to be Seen
Dara Cosby was born three months prematurely and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Doctors didn’t expect much for her. She would have a difficult life and achieve very little, they concluded. They were wrong.
#BodyPositivity Day 14 - "Positive Vibes Only"
Growing up was tough at times for Taida Chikuni because people often focused on her weight. She was body shamed constantly but eventually learned to appreciate her body on her own terms.
Re-loving my Body After Being Publicly Shamed - Interview w/ Lucy Weisiko
Imagine living in a community where everyone shames you for a decision your family has made to protect your body. This is what Lucy Weisiko endured as a child. Her parents made the brave decision not to allow any of their daughters to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM) -- a common practice in the community she was raised in.
#BodyPositivity Day 13: "Refuse to be Confined by Society's Perception"
A big congrats to Ayanda Candice Sibanda on her most recent accomplishment -- becoming Miss Africa Zimbabwe 2022!! Ayanda has several awards to her name including:
#BodyPositivity Day 12: "You are your own magic!"
The very first interview I did for TWSC back in 2017 was with my friend Berlange Presilus who embodies body positivity. She opened up about how she hid behind long skirts and pants for most of her life so no one would see her her right leg, which is affected by a condition called KTS.
Procrastination Station
Why do now what you can put off until tomorrow? That, my friend, is the question a serial procrastinator such as Yours Truly asks pretty much daily. Whatever the task at hand might be, must it absolutely be done immediately? “Because I tend to work really well in a high-pressure situation” is the lie I often tell. In my defense, I believed it to be the truth. But with some grow
Re-loving My Body After Alcoholism
Life is beautiful, life is exciting. With each new day comes new possibilities, new expectations and new beginnings.
Women Behind ‘Man You Rock’ Give Voice to Boys/Men During 16 Days of Activism Against GBV
Fikile Cele and Youandi Gilain have teamed up to empower men during this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence which began on Nov. 25. Traditionally, the campaign focuses on women and girls, but these two women have decided to call attention to abused men and boys who often suffer in silence.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - This is Why you Should Always Celebrate your Birthday
(Enter Mary and Phil, a couple living with their 5 sons, a few chickens, a fluffy Cat, 2 Manchester Terrier dogs and a well kept garden. Mary is in her mid-thirties and Phil in his mid 40s.)
New Month, New Theme - Reloving my Body After...
Hey TWSC Fam! All month-long, we will be bringing you stories about women who have learned to love their bodies again after physical trauma, injury, disability, addiction, gender-based violence, abuse, health crises and more! AND...we want to hear from YOU. Tell us your story!
Interview w/ Vonciel English on Faith, Purpose & Vision for Latest Brand Cloud by Day | Fire by Night
Vonciel English, founder of Perfect English Development Solutions, is such a warm and beautiful spirit. I met her a few years ago and the light within her was so radiant it let a lasting impression on me.
How this Single Mom Overcame Child Marriage, an Abusive Relationship and Tragic Loss
When life gives you lemons, you are expected to make lemonade, but uuuum....it is not as easy as that! My name is Chamu Sue Ellen Chaunoita. I am 35 years old and a single mother of two beautiful girls. Today, I am a purchasing clerk at a tobacco company in Harare, Zimbabwe, a diploma graduate in office administration and a certified nurse aide with the Zimbabwe Red Cross Socie
Makanaka Makeover Bar Founder: 'Rough Roads Lead to Beautiful Destinations'
Ivy Evidence Muchengi is a 34-year-old entrepreneur, motivational speaker and advocate against gender-based violence. She is the woman behind Makanaka Makeover Bar and Six Inches. The Weight She Carries caught up with her to learn more about her brands, what drew her to business and who she is as a woman.
The Cost of Fear
I talked a little bit the other day about how decisions made based on fear can be detrimental not only to ourselves, the impact is far reaching. In Exodus chapter 1, the Israelites had increased in numbers over the years and became so numerous that the Egyptians became fearful of them. They were afraid that they would be able to overpower the Egyptians or form allies with their
Humble Beginnings: From Neighborhood Vendor to Company Owner
Farai Mukamba is a vibrant young entrepreneur from Masvingo, the founder of Fah Roh Candy Shop.She attained an honours degree in marketing management from Midlands State University. She is also a life coach certified by the International Coaching and Mentoring Foundation. Farai started her candy business from scratch and has so much drive. She encourages and equips young women
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Find Time to Meet God Daily
Abuse robs us off the ability to build a meaningful relationship with God. It’s hard to see how a loving God would permit any of His children to be abused. I personally grew up with an avoidant attachment towards God. I prayed with my lips, but my heart was numb. I felt obliged to follow religious practices, I feared burning in hell, so I managed to pull an ‘ideal Christian lif
TBT: Gems from Doreen's Story - Inherited Issues
Doreen Moraa is one of 5 children born to a discordant couple, meaning one is HIV-positive and the other is HIV-negative. Three of her siblings were born HIV-negative while Doreen and one other sibling contracted the virus.
POST-ME: Grow, Baby, Grow
Growth is not comfortable. It requires you to continue to press forward and fight through doubt and fear. It's the tension you experience that facilitates growth. Muscles grow when they are forced to withstand a weight they have not been conditioned to bear. That weight causes the muscle to tear, but it builds back stronger. It may have been caught off-guard, but the tear will
Celebrating Growth w/ Business Mentor Matthesa Gregg
Matthesa Gregg is a friend to TWSC and has an online business she launched over 2 years ago. Finding time to grow her business, maintain her day job and raise a family has required mental discipline. In this video, she talks about the growth she has seen in herself and provides encouragement to other women entrepreneurs.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - My Growth
Personal growth to me means understanding who you are and what you are all about; taking small steps towards becoming the best version of yourself physically, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and even socially.
Meet Three-time Author Audrey Chirenje
I am a single parent to three amazing girls. I am a Christian, and I attend Celebration Church. I come from Chihota, and I grew up in Avondale West. I attended Avondale Junior School and then Waddilove Primary and then Waddilove High School up to A-level. I have a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing degree with the Institute of Marketing Management (IMM-SA). I am a
Broken but Beautiful: The Forgiveness Series - Pt. 1
In Part 1 of The Forgiveness Series, Faith Gor uses a powerful illustration to demonstrate how unpleasant yet necessary forgiveness is to our healing journey.
Interview w/ Chandi Rae on Upcoming Conference, Growth & Taking Leaps
Chandi Rae is a serial entrepreneur and the creator of Vanish Board and the Tell Your Story Conference. She joins me to talk about her 4th annual conference coming up this Saturday (Nov 13, 2021).
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - The F-word
This is not your usual F-word, perhaps it is. The thought of it gives me chills and emotional instability sometimes. It’s the word that many of us avoid because it demands us to walk on unpleasant paths we’d prefer not to travel on. Truth is, though it leads to peace and freedom, it is a painful process. Forgiveness is what I’m talking about.
Smiling Through Pain: Marvelous Fungurani’s Journey with Fibroids
Many women have uterine fibroids at some point during their lifetime. But you may not know you have them because they often do not present symptoms. Some women, though, have had to deal with more severe symptoms just like Marvelous Fungurani, who has lived with such symptoms for some years now.
Meet Multi-talented Entrepreneur & Business Mentor Dineo Molokoane
Dineo Molokoane is a publisher, author, entrepreneur and business mentor. She is originally from Rustenburg in Tlhabane and currently resides in Pretoria. This amazing author has a background in informational technology with over eight years of experience in the IT industry. Her entrepreneurship journey commenced in 2015 after she saw the need to invest in human capital and cre
Catching Up With Princess Siziba
A couple of years ago we interviewed an author, speaker and entrepreneur named Princess Siziba who had overcome many challenges as a teen mom and was determined to be successful. Well, since then, Princess has made in greater strides and now owns a publishing company. We decided to reach out to her and find out all about her new venture!
Dear Hopeless Romantic
Don’t believe the hype, sis. Don’t let them sell you a lie. True love still exists. Real, committed, “you and me” kind of love. The twenty-first century will try to convince you that the safest way to love is not to love at all. Casual hook-ups and meaningless sex are the way to go. And if that’s truly your cup of tea, then have at it, sis. Don’t let this romantic true-love bel
Forgiving The Father Who Violated Me
My name Zizo Izabelo zam Apleni, which means “These are my shares”, given to me by my maternal grandmother. My mum had me when she was in university, but my father denied the pregnancy, and so I became my maternal grandparents’ child. It is a very loving family: secure, warm and loving. At Christmas, everyone gathers at home for a big celebration where we share our dreams and a
Surviving Grief: [VIDEO] Interview w/ Marsha McWilson - Part 1
Marsha McWilson is a recording artist, TV actress, motivational speaker, certified hair stylist AND the FIRST Black woman to be inducted into the Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame!!!
TWSC Submission: The day I became a widow at 22
It was in the evening, around 5 pm and I heard people wail while coming towards the direction of my house. I had gone to the rural areas to stay for some time while my husband remained working. I didn't suspect anything at first because I was in shock. I couldn't think clearly and I was restless because those villagers crying had information on what had happened and I didn't.
Overcoming Grief with Shalena Hackney Nikiema
Watch my interview with Shalena Nikiema on grief. Shalena has lost many family members. One of the deaths that impacted her the most was the loss of her brother who was killed in 1997. At the time, Shalena was pregnant and eventually had a mental breakdown. She shared her story on The Weight She Carries a few years ago. Today she revisits some of the darkest moments in her life
My Divorce Birthed my Business
My name is Rumbidzai Patience Magaya, a mother of three turning 35 years [old] in November. I went through divorce early 2019, and I was a housewife then. When I was married, I discovered that my ex-husband was living a double life. When I say double life, I mean he had secretly married another lady without my knowledge. Some relatives knew about it, but I was in darkness.
Healing from the Loss of Our Mom: O. P. R. Muvengwa
Twins Tatenda Rungisa and Tafadzwa Rungisa Chivenge are behind the company TwinConnect. They have celebrated many wins over the years but recently opened up about losing their beloved mother, O. P. R. Muvengwa.
Surviving Loss: [VIDEO] Interview w/Cola Bennett - Author of C.O.L.A - Casualty of Love's Apologies
Cola Bennett's life has been filled with multiple traumas - from being sexually assaulted on several occasions to losing her precious son at the age of 8. Cola isn't new here. We first published her story 3 years ago when she had just published her book.
Surviving Loss: Interview w/Cola Bennett - Author of C.O.L.A - Casualty of Love's Apologies
I am so excited today, to have a chance to speak with Cola Bennett. Now we've had a little bit of history here in that we ran a story about three years ago, I believe was three years ago. And at that time, you were just publishing your book. And you had been working really hard to get it out. I remember, it was a busy time for you. So I'm so glad that we can come back and have
TWSC Submission: Her Name was Faith
My name is Francisca Wairimu. I’m a born-again Christian. I love Jesus. I'm an ordained pastor. I'm very passionate about winning souls. In Africa, women suffer very much and go through a lot of pain in life. I don't know where to start…
TWSC Submission: Trusting God After Loss
Grief does not quickly go away. It took me some time to accept that I had indeed lost my first child. It really pains me to this day when I look at the scar which now remains a painful reminder of my loss. I got married in December 2019, and a few months later we found out we were pregnant. Both [my husband and I] were very excited about the new addition to the family.
TWSC Submission: In-depth Story – Losing my Babies
I never knew that someday I would talk about this. I did not even believe it myself. I love life; life is beautiful. I love books; I read a lot. I read almost everything that is readable. I love traveling when I can. I’m a single mom of three. I love my children to bits.
Fun Facts: Epic Women in History - Part 2
We're back with another fun facts post on the things women have invented. Our contribution to society is nothing new, but little is spoken of our inventions, particularly those created in traditionally male-dominated fields. Some of them were discredited at the time but fought to maintain ownership of their ideas.
TBT: Gems from Lucky’s Story – Embrace the New You After Loss
As you probably know by now, grief is our topic for the month of October. We recognize that grieving involves more than the loss of life, it can be the loss of anything significant to us. October also happens to be breast cancer month and I want to take us back to a story we published last October on a woman named Lucky Ndanu. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was i
Everyday Shero: [VIDEO] Interview w/ Kuchengetana Trust Founder Samantha Murozoki
For the past 535 days, Kuchengetana Trust Founder Samantha Murozoki and her team of volunteers have been cooking over 1,000 meals per day for people in need in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. Every single day, the team works tirelessly from 4 a.m. to late into the night.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - A Different Kind of Grief
When I was told that the month of October was going to focus on grief, it gave me a lot to think about as one who has lost loved ones as well as other things.
TWSC Submission: Healing from the Sudden Loss of my Sister
My name is Claire and I would like to share about my loss. I lost my sister due to postpartum hemorrhage on the eve of my birthday. It was her first child and she had a lot of dreams for her child. It's been 4-5 years but everything is still fresh in my mind.
Fun Facts: Epic Women in History - Part 1
I know you don’t need me to tell you how phenomenal we are as women, but just in case you need a reminder, here are some pretty neat facts that will have you stepping into the weekend proud to be a bonafide sis.
A Crowd Instead of Solitude
We find Jesus here at a low point emotionally. He has just been told about the beheading of his cousin John the Baptist. I’ve often wondered…since Jesus is God and knows everything, how did hearing the message of John’s death affect him? What I have learned about grief is that even when you know death is eminent, it still leaves you devastated. Knowing something intellectually
Overcoming Loss: Workit Founder Sheila Chanda Bwali
Today, Sheila Chanda Bwali describes herself as a very enthusiastic person who is deeply passionate about what she does and a strong believer in innovation and creativity. Sheila runs an organization called Workit, a company management system that helps employees work collaboratively with each other by increasing efficiency and productivity using an interoperable ecosystem of d
October Theme: Grief
Happy new month! We excited October is here because it marks the first month that we will be focusing on themes for our stories. As our community grows, we have found it increasingly necessary to organize your content in a way that it can be easily accessible to you. We're open to your feedback so please do feel free to let us know how you think we can improve our content.
TBT: Gems from Princess' Story - Shadows are Temporary
We did a story a few years ago on a woman named Princess Noma Siziba who had authored her first book Why l Never Gave Up, which detailed her struggles as a teen mom and how she overcame numerous obstacles. Princess has made even greater leaps and bounds in recent years (we’ll cover that in an upcoming story) but today, I'd like us to look back on some of the highlights we glean
Fighting for Justice: A Family at Odds
My parents would host parties at home in a bid to entertain guests and their workmates. I was only 11, and on this particular day, a close friend to my father decided it was too late to go back home after the party, so he was accommodated for the evening. Little did we know he had a plan that would change everyone’s life.
Dear Average
I see you out here living your best regular life, working your regular job, having your regular dinner in front of a regular TV show, and going to your regular bed in your regular pyjamas. You don’t identify with the hustle culture so highly praised on social media. You’re quite content to clock in and out at your 9-5 and have your regular weekends to yourself. You have no wild
TBT: Gems from Christine's Story - No, You do Not Have a Bad Omen
Two years ago, I met a woman in Nairobi, Kenya named Christine Khatima. I had interviewed her a few months prior for a story for TWSC and meeting her in person was an honour. She is hands down one of the strongest women I have met and she doesn't look like any of the trauma she has been through.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - It was Rape, Actually
Today’s topic is one that is difficult to wrap one’s head around but is sadly happening every single day. Sexual assault is often perceived as a straight issue: men raping women. Woman-to-woman rape and sexual assault globally remains unaddressed. How does a woman rape another woman? Or simply put, how does a woman rape?
Style Cabin Zimbabwe Founder Shares Her Story of Trauma, Tenacity and Triumph
Life has a way of taking away from us; but it has the capacity to give, particularly if we stay true to our dreams and aspire for the best. Sharon James, now the managing director and founder of Style Cabin Zimbabwe, a home decor and furniture company that specializes in exclusive lounge suites, modern sleigh beds, headboards, arm chairs and more, was not born with a silver spo
TBT: Gems From Sharon's Story - Rising from Desolation
Three years ago, we published a story about a woman who climbed to Mt. Everest's Base Camp just one year after surviving life-threatening surgery to remove multiple fibroids.
Everyday Sheros: Survivors' Network Founder Awah Francisca Mbuli [Video]
In 2015, Awah Francisca Mbuli was trafficked to Kuwait. After months of domestic servitude and various abuses, she managed to escape and eventually returned to Cameroon. She shared her story with us in 2018 which you can read here.
Determined: Dr. Chipo Mutambo Nyathi Shares How Education Liberated and Empowered Her
My name is Chipo Mutambo Nyathi. I am a projects director at Gezubuso Projects in South Africa and completed my PhD at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in public health and completed it earlier this year. But looking back at my life, college and high school was a struggle for my mom because I went to a school which was way beyond her means.
Cookbook Author and Chef Liziwe Matloha Shares Her Love of Food
Born and raised in Boskop, a rural area in Potchefstroom, South Africa, Liziwe Matloha is a chef, a cookbook author and food editor. She is also a wife and mother of three.
13 Fun Facts About Your Tongue
We’re back with more interesting facts about your body. The reason we do these fun facts is to show you just how fearfully and wonderfully you are made. By taking the time to focus on how intricately you are designed, our hope is that you can begin to appreciate the real you so much more. You are a masterpiece that God carefully wove together long before you could even apprecia
TBT: Gems From Jasmine's Story - When we Don't Get the Reaction We Hoped
A couple of years ago, I attended a women's conference in Dayton, Ohio called the Tell Your Story Conference created by Chandi Rae. One of her speakers was a woman by the name of Jasmine Frazier. This was the first time she was telling her story publicly and I couldn’t believe what it must have been like to walk in her shoes as a child sexually abused by her stepfather.
Personal Coach Ruth Mukesa: 'You are You, and That’s Your Superpower'
Ruth Mukesa is a young woman who aims is to bring clarity to people spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally. She is a teacher by profession and on her way to neurolinguistic programming, aiming to be one of the youngest certified international life coaches. She just completed ICCP, an international career coaching program by Dr Akan from the United Kingdom.
TWSC Discussions: Can you Disagree without Judging?
Every woman has a story. We may disagree with her choices, but many poor choices are fueled by pain. A few years ago, a story was submitted anonymously to one of our contributors. In her story, the woman detailed how she became the other woman. At first, I struggled with it. I wasn't sure if I wanted to post it on TWSC.
TWSC Submission: Severe Trauma Triggered My Fibromyalgia
Growing up, I have experienced a tremendous amount of trauma, from physical, emotional and even sexual trauma. I come from a broken family. My parents divorced when I was young. During their marriage, there was constant fighting between them, and it got physical at times. Their divorce was inevitable, and so my mother, brother and I moved into a flat.
Afrluent Media CEO Nicolette Mdhluli: 'Make the right noise; be as loud as you can'
Nicolette Mdhluli is an entrepreneur and founder of Afrluent Media, a media house in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Her magazine, Afrluencer Magazine, is a local lifestyle magazine for the everyday Zimbabwean and profiles local influencers and entrepreneurs across Africa.
How do you Like your Voice? 13 Fun Facts About your Vocal Cords
Research shows that people generally prefer deep voices. Many women have gone to great lengths to change their voice. Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher enlisted the services of a vocal coach to deepen her voice so she could sound more authoritative.
TBT: Gems From Erica's Story - 'Push Through Life, Don't be Pulled'
Three years ago, I interviewed a woman by the name of Erica Elita Edwards. At the time, she had just embarked on a new venture, her talk show What Matters with Erica Elita. I had met Erica at an empowerment workshop and from the little that she had shared about her story, I knew I wanted to interview her for an in-depth story on TWSC. So I reached out to her.
Everyday Sheros: Peperusha Binti Holds Key Events to Empower Women in Kisumu, Kenya
For the past three months, Peperusha Binti has continued to work tirelessly to engage young women in Kisumu, Kenya on the Generation Equality Forum, a global gathering that promotes gender equality.
Farirai Nandipa Events Founder: 'You Only Need One Person to Believe in Your Dream'
Farirai Nandipa Mabodza is a 36 years old events professional from Gweru. She is a wife and mother of three, the owner of Farirai Nandipa Events (Pvt) Ltd and the founder of Institute of Events Professionals in Zimbabwe. We reached out to Farirai to find out more about her entrepreneurial journey.
TWSC Submission: My Pain Turned Into Power
My name is Dzidzai Gugulethu Mhazo, a 30-year-old single mother. I got pregnant when I was in high school doing Upper Six. I had to sit for my examinations pregnant, and it was not easy. I had to deal with all the morning sickness and pregnancy symptoms so that no one could suspect me at school. I managed to complete all my examinations, and I passed with nine points.
Meet TWSC Contributor Naume Mubure!
Happy Monday! To close out our TWSC Appreciation Month, I'd like to introduce you to another one of our beloved contributors Naume Mubure. Naume has been part of the team since November 2018. I was looking for more writers and she was referred to me by Tatenda Rungisa.
TBT: Gems From Cynthia Kunze's Story - The Spectators at the Scene
I’ve been thinking lately of how there are often people around us who witness our pain. People who are drawn to the drama of our trauma not because they want to help, but because they are intrigued and our situation is entertaining to them to a degree.
Meet TWSC Contributor Phoebie Chigonde!
As we near the end of our Contributor Appreciation Month, I want to introduce you to one of our dedicated writers and a woman to watch. Phoebie Chigonde contacted me in May 2019 and said she had been following TWSC on Facebook for some time.
Battle of the Chefs Winner Leandrah Makaya Shares Greatest Strength and Love for Cooking
Leandrah Makaya is a 33-year-old award-winning chef who emerged as the Season 2 winner of Battle of the Chefs Harare, a Zimbabwean competitive reality TV show that has expanded to other African countries. The accomplishment came with a $10,000 cash prize and esteemed title of Best Chef in Zimbabwe.
TBT: Gems from Righteous Chawane's Story - There is Always a Silver Lining
I am a firm believer that our deepest heartache is often what leads to I Purpose. Righteous Chawane’s story, which we published in May 2020, is an example of Just that. Her marriage ended after just five months and the shame, rejection and embarrassment she felt took her to a dark place. People were cruel.
Meet TWSC Contributor Celine Njoki!
"Oh my word..." is all I could say. A woman named Celine Njoki had reached out to me on Facebook in December 2018 with a simple message: "Hi. My name is Celine. My story is a long one, a long, long one." I asked for her number right away and we continued our conversation on WhatsApp. She proceeded to tell me about a series of traumas she had experienced since the age of seven.
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor -Grieving Over a Lost Childhood
In my pictorial archives, there are two pictures that remind me of a time I would rather forget. Each time I look at them, I just want to reach out and wrap my arms around that little girl and tell her everything will be alright. I grieve for the little girl I see in the photos. I go back to that time and shiver.
Meet TWSC Contributor Kim Mukwa!
One of the things I treasure deeply about The Weight She Carries is the enthusiasm our contributors possess and their willingness to open up the most vulnerable parts of themselves to share their innermost thoughts and emotions with us. Kim Mukwa is no different.
Meet TWSC Contributor Tafadzwa Rungisa-Chivenge!
Earlier this week, we introduced you to one of our contributors - Tatenda Rungisa. Well, today you'll be getting to know Tatenda's twin sister Tafadzwa Rungisa-Chivenge!
TBT: Gems from Cynthia Mapendere's Story - Be Bold Enough to Ask
A few years ago, we wrote a story about a woman whose life changed drastically when her father died. He was the breadwinner and Cynthia's family struggled to make ends meet after his death.
Meet TWSC Contributor Sibongile Mlotshwa Lugube!
Sibongile and I go way back. We went to the same high school in Zimbabwe - Anderson High School - and our families lived close to each other. I reached out to Bongi about a year after launching TWSC. I knew she was a writer and I'd read some of her articles and loved her writing style. Not only is Bongi an exceptional writer, she is incredibly funny and refreshingly candid. You
Meet TWSC Contributor Tatenda Rungisa!
As we continue with our Contributor Appreciation Month, I'm proud to introduce another beloved member of our team - TWSC contributor Tatenda Rungisa. FYI, Tatenda has an identical twin who is also part of our TWSC family, so it may look like we are featuring the same person twice this week but we're not :)
Meet TWSC Contributor Faith Gor!
The second person I'd like to introduce to you is one of our weekly contributors Faith Gor who hails from Kenya. I first heard about Faith from a prominent woman named Mary Ang'awa, a former judge of the High Court of Kenya and one of the speakers at our Shero Runway Empowerment Conference in Nairobi in June 2019.
Zimbabwe OCD Trust Founder Shares Her Brave Battle Against Mental Illness
Angelica Chiketa Mkorongo is a biologist, now-turned mental health advocate and peer specialist. She is also a mother and wife. She spoke to The Weight She Carries about her journey living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Meet TWSC Editor Rumbidzai Musvosvi!
The month of August is Contributor Appreciation Month here at TWSC! So throughout the month, you'll be getting to know the special women who make all our content possible. First up is our editor Rumbidzai Musvosvi!
Zvide Creations Founder: "Believe in Yourself Even if Your Beliefs go Against the Grain"
Rudo Nyamoto is a fun-loving, free-spirited being who is extremely extroverted. She’s always looking to see and help bring out the best in other people. A marketer by profession - with over seven years market research experience, Rudo is also a speaker and confidence coach with a passion to see individuals master the art of self-love and self-confidence. Personal brand developm
Introducing TWSC Ad Loyalty Program!
We're excited to introduce our *NEW* TWSC Ad Loyalty Program!! If you have products/services you want to advertise to an international audience of WOC each month, here's a great deal for you! Offer ends Aug. 8, 2021.
TBT: Gems from Sinikiwe's Story - You Always Have What You Need
A couple of years ago, I interviewed a woman with a determination like none other. Sinikiwe Kademaunga was born with no limbs and no knees but she resolved to enjoy life to the fullest no matter what. Sinikiwe is a motivational speaker with copious confidence, and as a life coach, helps people discover the same kind of confidence within themselves that she possesses.
Khayil Consultancy Founder on What it Took to Launch & Grow Her Business
Gift Muteletwa is business savvy and is using her business acumen to help others grow their businesses through her company Khayil Consultancy. Wanting to learn more about how she got her start in business, I reached out to her and asked her about her entrepreneurial journey and who she is as a woman.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Press On!
A few years ago, I was not comfortable with the passage recorded in the Bible about the woman who had a gynecological condition that afflicted her for 12 years (Mark 5:25-34). This is because dysmenorrhea had fed me the bitter side of life. One day, when I was in pain, some lady commented sarcastically that I should “just touch the hem of His garment.”
TBT: Gems from Asha Molock's Story - Making Peace with Your Story
Two years ago I wrote a story on HIV/AIDS activist Asha Molock who contracted HIV at the age of 50. It was the last thing she expected to hear. People her age are often not considered at risk, so it was a shocking revelation. For years Asha kept her diagnosis a secret and it took a toll on her.
Getting to Know Radio Personality & Model Fikile Cele
Fikile Cele, who we did a story on a couple weeks ago, is taking action to help people impacted by the current unrest in South Africa. When I first interviewed Fikile for her story, I could sense her deep passion for people and her desire to make the world a better place. That wasn’t just talk; she is founding an NGO to provide aid to people who need it the most in South Africa
TWSC Podcast: Episode 25 - Unity Dow
Human rights activist Unity Dow was appointed as high court judge by Botswana's former president Quette Masire in 1998, becoming the first woman in Botswana to hold that post and the youngest at the time. Listen to how she rose from humble beginnings to the vastly accomplished woman she is today.
In-depth Story: Humanitarian & Widow’s Rights Advocate Dianah Kamande on the Night her Husband Tried to Kill Her
At 30, Dianah Kamande was in a hospital fighting for her life with massive head injuries sustained during a domestic altercation. She had just lost her husband to suicide. He had tried to kill her before stabbing himself in the abdomen. There was no time to process the events that had occurred that evening; she had two young daughters to raise and a long road ahead to clear her
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - The Danger of Unresolved Trauma
If you have experienced what I have been through, you find that it’s so easy to lose yourself. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of life. It’s easy to just become a piece of debris floating aimlessly along life. In that kind of state, one can find themselves attracting more abuse and pain. For example, because of my childhood sexual violation, I had rampant sexual experiences in
TBT: Gems from Zipporah's Story - Trusting your Decisions as a Single Mother
Two years ago I interviewed a woman whose resilience and courage are truly remarkable. Zipporah Mwikali Ngwatu became a single mother the day her son was born. His father wanted nothing to do with him from the time he learned about Zipporah's pregnancy.
Fussing Over a False Threat?
On my morning walk the other day, I passed by this one house with a dog in the yard. I’m not good with dog breeds so let’s just say he was one of the little guys. Attached to the dog’s collar was a long leash that was fastened to a post on the porch of the house. While the dog could walk around freely in the front yard, it could only reach as far as the edge of the lawn.
How Charlene Motshegwe Fought Cancer, Debilitating Pain as a Teen
Charlene Nadine Motshegwe is a 24-year-old Motswana woman who is currently studying events management at Limkokwing University in Botswana and is set to finish next year. She told The Weight She Carries that her background was a fair one. She had a normal childhood expect for having to deal with her parents losing their jobs, which resulted in family and friends helping with fo
TWSC Submission: Starting Over
Sophie Atieno Odumu is a mother of four kids, a teacher and a women and children’s rights activist. She opened up to TWSC Contributor Gladwell Wachira about what drives her to fight to educate women and children about their rights.
Career & Business Coach Tokunbo Fasoro Talks Helping Women Excel Personally and Professionally
I am an internationally certified human resources practitioner and have been in the field for almost 14 years. I have helped people with career building and planning, hence connecting people to careers they are passionate about. I also channelled it into helping women turn their passions into profit. This has been really successful because when you channel your energy to what y
Abandoned in a Box: How Embracing Her Truth Opened Doors for Miss South Africa 2021 Hopeful Fikile Cele
This saying coined by 22-year-old Fikile Cele is more than a metaphor, it’s deeply personal; and, in many ways, describes how she managed to land on both feet despite a bleak beginning and years of identity crisis and being picked on by imperious peers.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Why I Didn't Tell
When I first opened up to my parent about my story of childhood sexual abuse, my enraged parent asked, “Why didn’t you tell me?” And the inner child replied in my heart, “That’s exactly why I didn’t tell.”Many times, when a survivor tells of the abuse they experienced, people ask, ‘Why didn’t you report immediately? Why are you bringing it up after all these years? Why don’t yo
Brand Building Coach Tutsirai Jenje Talks Importance of Clarity and Defining Success
Tutsirai Jenje is a Brand Building Coach who is passionate about helping individuals build successful legacy brands. She is happily married and a mother of two boys and has over 12 years experience in advertising and marketing.Tutsirai has worked with different teams as a creative director for brands that are now giants in their markets. She currently owns an online business (T
26 Letters - To all the Qs, Xs and Zs
If you have ever questioned your significance, the alphabet is a great place to start. Watch my video below to find out how.
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Dear Sex Offender
Are you alive or dead? I choose to imagine that you are alive because that’s what I feel on most days. I gave up on hoping that one day you’ll come to apologize for robbing me of my sexual innocence, dignity, peace, trust, hope, pure imagination, and sense of safety. I lived believing that my well-being was pegged on your apology, but no, it’s not. I craved your apology daily t
TBT: Gems from Teresa Njoroge's Story - Stay the Course
What do you do when things go horribly wrong; when the actions of somebody else changes the course of your life? We did a story two years ago about a respectable banker named Teresa Njoroge who found herself wrongfully imprisoned for a fraudulent transaction she unknowingly handled on the job. It’s one thing to be in trouble as a result of your own actions, but to be accused of
Naike Moshi: Award-winning CEO of WIMA on Fears, Challenges and Why Giving Up is Not an Option
Naike Moshi is strong, energetic and passionate leader. She is the country director of CVPeople Tanzania and award-winning founder and CEO of Women in Management Africa (WIMA), an NGO that aims to increase visibility for women leaders and celebrates their achievements.
God Wastes Nothing
Sometimes I look back on some of the poor decisions I have made in the past and how some of the implications of those decisions still live on today, and I wonder how God can use my failures for my good. If you are feeling that way today, allow me to remind you that God wastes nothing. In fact, the concept of waste did not come from Him.
The Weekend That Never Ended
“Thank God it’s Friday,” they say. Monday is “blue” and the week is always long and everybody gets super excited when Thursday night comes because Friday is so close! Everybody loves Friday!
TBT: Gems from Kimberly Coleman's Story - the Hardest People to Forgive
Today we are going back to a story we first published in 2018 about a woman who had just returned to modelling 20 years after walking away from a successful modelling career. Kimberly Coleman had a rough start to life. By the time she was five she was being physically abused by her parents; by age seven, her father had begun abusing her sexually; and when she was nine, she was
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Making Peace With God
Where is God when we are violated sexually? Where is He when children are abused sexually? Where was He when I was molested? These were questions I asked myself for a long time, but I never got answered. When people would attempt to answer me, I would end up resenting them, and I would withdraw from God even more.
In-depth Story: How Empowered 4X Founder Chris-Beth Cowie Overcame Personal Adversity and Became a Pillar to her Community
Chris-Beth Cowie has spent the better part of the last decade carving out her own path, conquering uncharted territory and creating new language along the way. Drawing from a wealth of experience as a social entrepreneur, speaker and humanitarian, Chris-Beth is spreading her invaluable knowledge to other entrepreneurs. Simply put, she is a master at discovering business solutio
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - It Was Never About Me
Many of my childhood memories are painful reminders of what I have had to endure. As others would lovingly reminisce on their blissful childhoods, I would often be stuck between a rock and a hard place about whether to lie and recount sunshine and ice cream or tell the truth.
How Digital Marketer and Online Business Mentor Matthesa Gregg is Building an Empire Online
Matthesa Gregg is all about impact. Her personal mission is to use her gifts to bless those around her. And thanks to the internet, her sphere of influence has expanded exponentially. Since launching her online business in 2019, Matthesa has been effectively growing her global business and mentoring others to do the same.
TBT: Gems from Priscillah Kabura's Story - The Cost of Better
In late 2019 I had the privilege of interviewing a woman named Priscillah Kabura. I remember it was morning for me and I sat in the car as I dialed her number. She was is Italy. For the next hour, I listened as she took me through the heartbreak she experienced that turned her into a single mother in Kenya, the financial crisis she lived through and how she ultimately chose bet
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - No, You Are Not Alone
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)
Pastor, Lawyer & Coach Joyce Mutangara Talks Leadership, Embracing Diversity & Keys to Success
With over 20 years of managerial experience in legal, administration and coaching, Joyce Mutangara is a lawyer, pastor and a Gallup certified strength coach who runs her own coaching business. She is leadership director and shareholder of Hikari Inc., which provides leadership training and support for businesses in tech and design.
From Bad Skin to Makeup Artist: Victoria Munyenyiwa Shares Her Story
Victoria K. Munyenyiwa, also branded as Facebeat by VickieKay in the beauty world and on Facebook (Instagram: @vee_the_makeupbae), is a 28-year-old lady born and raised in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. She moved to Gweru for tertiary education where she obtained a bachelor’s honours degree in human resource management, class of 2016, from Midlands State University.
Celebrating Jay-Anne Johnson
Growing up, I used to watch graduation ceremonies at local universities, which were screened live on TV, officiated by the president. I could not help but notice that the majority of graduates were males. Women were seen in small number, mainly for degrees in education. The sciences appeared to be only for the young men.
There Will Be No Snapback Here
It’s been seven months since I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. A wrinkled, scrawny, tiny, screaming, entitled little blessing. My third baby. My third time bringing a human life into this world. Third C-section. Three times, my body has stretched itself to accommodate another life. For the third time, my boobs have been converted into a baby food manufacturing plant. And so
A Single Mother's Determination to Get Back Onto Her Feet After Loss
Samantha Mpofu (Sammy) grew up as the oldest of four children. Her parents divorced when she was young but she still has fond memories of her childhood.
Getting to Know "Digital Bae" Taffy L. Gotora
Taffy L. Gotora is an integrated marketing communications leader who heads Barker McCormac Ogilvy & Mather's digital department. The company is the largest advertising agency in Zimbabwe. Affectionately known as "Digital Bae", Taffy is also a part-time digital marketing lecturer at the Marketers Association of Zimbabwe. She previously sat on the board of the Rotary Club of Hara
TWSC Series: Broken but Beautiful - Healing is in the Process; it's Not a Destination
Naaman had to get into the dirty river for himself, by himself. Healing is an inside job. It’s an opportunity to get in tune with your soul, which then deepens the connection with your Creator. This is true because when Naaman came out of the water, he was completely healed, grateful and chose to praise the living God of Israel, that is God the Creator.
Rapid Fire, PR, Hustler, Lava - Who's in your Girl Squad?
We’re talking about girl squads today. Now we know that every woman has a circle of friends that she cannot do without. Women who hold you up and are willing to come to the rescue at a moment's notice. Tell us if you have these women in your girl squad.
Love Pineapples? Thanks to Pine Kazi You Can Wear them too!
With the whole world going green, Africa has not been left behind. In yet another achievement for women in Africa, Kenyan, women-led organization Pine Kazi, which converts pineapple leaves and recycled rubber into fashionable footwear, recently won an award for its eco-friendly efforts.
TWSC Submission: Pregnant and Alone - How I Found Love After Being Rejected by my Family & Child's Father
My name is Portia* and I am 38 years old. I come from Gokwe, Zimbabwe. Growing up, I have faced quite a number of challenges, one of which was falling pregnant at a young age of 22 out of wedlock. I was childish at the time because when I was around five months pregnant, my aunt, who I was staying with at the time, is the one who noticed that I was pregnant even though I had tr
Martha Koome Set to Become Kenya's First Female Chief Justice
Martha Koome, 61, surprised many by becoming the first female chief justice in Kenya. This comes after she topped a contest which involved nine others. The interview was conducted by the Kenyan Judicial Service Commission.
Just a Thought: The Power of a Single Thought
Happy Monday! Thank you to all our new subscribers! If you haven't done so, please join our community by subscribing so you don't miss out on any of our content.
Broken but Beautiful: Separation
One of my favorite stories in the Bible is the story of Joseph recorded in the book of Genesis chapters 37-50. It’s a painful story that has a beautiful ending. Joseph’s mother died when he was still young. His father loved him more than his siblings and this made his brothers despise him to the extent of ganging up against him, mocking him for his extraordinary dreams, strippi
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - Shame
Footprints of a Survivor is a weekly column written by Kim Mukwa, a survivor of childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Each week, she reveals the layers of pain she lived through, the damage it caused and the steps she is taking to heal emotionally.
I Refused to Let HIV or Cancer Keep me From Living my Best Life
Andrea de Lange found out that she was HIV positive when she was just 23 years old and in college. Today at 57, she has found love and is a cancer survivor. This is her story…Andrea is a Jewish American who was raised in California. Life is good right now, but that wasn’t always the case.
It's Another First for Dr. Ncoza Dlova!
Professor Ncoza Dlova has added another first to her list after receiving a medal courtesy of the International Society of Dermatologists, becoming the first South African to receive such an accolade.
Broken but Beautiful: Denial
“Broken but Beautiful” is a weekly column by Faith Gor, a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. She shares her story and healing journey to offer hope to other survivors.
A Single Mother's Experience Raising Two Autistic Children
The following story is about 41-year-old Samira Njoki from Kenya. Samira is mother to two autistic boys and has been single-handedly taking care of them for five years after her husband turned his back on them.
A Woman's Continual Journey to Wholeness After Recurrent Losses
Motherhood is a dream for many; the thought of holding a baby in one’s arms brings joy. The pain of losing a baby is, however, unfathomable. The loss, unforgettable. The following story is about how life changed for Precious Taah – from being congratulated and receiving pregnancy advice to being consoled after losing her first child through miscarriage. That was the beginning o
TWSC Podcast Ep. 24: Mio Yamada
When COVID-19 hit, Mio Yamada ignored an advisory by the Japanese Embassy to leave Rwanda and return to Japan. She had fallen in love with Africa as a student in university when she cycled 5,000 km from Kenya to South Africa. Years later, she relocated to Rwanda with her family, opened up a restaurant, and decided that she would hire single mothers as her staff. Forced to shut
18 Fun Facts About Your Eyes
Today, we're talking about how awesome your eyes are. Did you know that your eye can differentiate about 10 million different colors? Or that your eye is made up of over 2 million working parts? Incredible, right? Keep reading for some more interesting facts about your eyes.
Broken but Beautiful: It's Not Just a Running Stomach
I love singing. I always thank God for my musical ear and the ability to enjoy music deeply. Unfortunately, I do not play any musical instrument, but I shall learn how to play one someday soon. I enjoy listening to well-blended vocals, and I particularly get an inexpressible feeling for minor harmonies, especially when the vocals are deep and rich! Blame it on endorphins and ox
TWSC Submission: When My Childhood Ended
Merida Ohame was forced to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM), and then, soon after, forced to marry a total stranger. Today, at 62, she has vowed it fight for the rights of women and the girl child. She believes that FGM has damaging effects on girls and lowers a women self-esteem, and has worked to help eradicate this practice for over 30 years. This is her story.
TWSC Series: Navigating Through Pain -Rosa's Healing Journey
Ever watched the movie Heaven is for real? It is based on a true life story of a young boy narrating how he walked in heaven while he had been taken to theatre. I stumbled on it being aired on one of our local TV stations during the Christmas of 2019. I attest that heaven is for real, I am a living testimony that Jesus is alive, my encounter was a similar one. It finally dawned
TWSC Series: Footprints of a Survivor - An Introduction to Kim Mukwa
I am Kim Mukwa, born in 1988. I am a mother and wife and also a survivor of childhood physical, sexual and emotional trauma. My story is one of pain, horror, disbelief and a thousand questions without answers. And so, I really try to go through life the best way I know how, and that is to seek a place of healing and understanding. Basically, I’m taking it one day at a time, rid
Broken but Beautiful: Seeking Therapy
A friend sent me a message a week ago and asked, “When did you realise that you needed therapy?” Usually I would go ahead and give a detailed answer, but this time I chose to be curious. I asked her, “What therapy?” Maybe she meant hydrotherapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, art therapy or light therapy. I didn’t want to make conclusions.
13 Fun Facts About Your Heart
Did you know that your heart pumps a staggering 2,000 gallons of blood every single day? That’s equivalent to 7,570 litres! It’s the powerhouse of your cardiovascular system yet it weighs less than 1 pound (0.45lbs). Talk about being small but mighty!
So, What are you Doing with Your Emotional Symptoms?
A few years ago, I interviewed a woman who had recently opened up about a health condition she had vowed to keep hidden. I had known Berlange Presilus for a number of years, but knew her as an outgoing, fun-loving soul with a beautiful smile. She was a fashion model and exuded confidence.
Beatrice Malika: Why I Left a Well-Paying Job to Take Care of Slum and Street Children
Beatrice Malika runs a school called the Glory Christian Education Centre and also founded Glory Christian Rescue Home for sexually abused children. A mother of two children aged 17 and 12, Beatrice realized her love for children as a child herself. She often gave things to other children at random. This is her story in her own words.
Managing Director of The Hill Group of Schools Shares Entrepreneurial Journey
Forty-year-old Rosemary Chakacha is a teacher by profession and managing director of The Hill Group of Schools. She also holds a qualification in social work and business administration, is starting law with the Legal Institute and is a mother to three children.
Check that Baggage, Sis!
My children and I have spent the last few months travelling and hauling 12 pieces of luggage everywhere we go. In some ways, it feels like we have become experts at handling baggage.
Broken but Beautiful: Don’t Give up on Healing, Help Will Come – Pt. 2
I learnt how to live with my dark secret until I was 19. I attended a youth conference organized by the church and I hoped to find GOD. The theme for that conference was based on the life of Joseph. The sessions were enriching but I would zone out and doze off through most of the sessions because a lot didn’t make sense then, but I liked the prayer sessions.
When Sisters Share Podcast: Immeasurable More
Do you believe that God wants to blow your mind? No, really; do you? Many times we are afraid to ask God for the impossible because we don’t want to get our hopes up. Yet God longs to give us immeasurably more than all we could ask or imagine.
Meet Njeri wa Migwi: A Gender-Based Violence Survivor and Activist
Njeri wa Migwi is a wife, mother of five and the founder/CEO of Usikimye Organization. She was still a minor when she got married and that led to over a decade of domestic abuse. Materially, she wanted for nothing, but emotionally, she was broken. Today, her pain has fueled her activism, and she is determined to never let another woman go through what she experienced on her wat
Getting to Know Clare Ongati: Entrepreneur, Passionate Youth Leader and Co-Founder of Young Women Connect
Clare Ongati is a 28-year-old mother who wears multiple hats. She is an entrepreneur, a Youth Leadership alumni and co-founder of Young Women Leaders Connect. Many things about Clare stand out, but her drive and passion are undeniable. Despite a horrific encounter that changed the trajectory of her life, Clare continues to inspire others to heal from their pain and became who t
Broken but Beautiful: Don’t Give up on Healing, Help Will Come - Pt. 1
Growing up, I preferred being in two spaces: anywhere with my brothers or in school, particularly in class with my classmates because it felt safe. One afternoon we were called out to go for a girls-only session. I was eleven then and this was my first time attending such a session. I’m grateful we had the privilege of having talks on puberty, hygiene and how to relate with oth
In Her Shoes: Braving Through Bipolar Disorder
I have bipolar II and these are all examples of a type of psychosis I have experienced. Delusions and hallucinations are forms of psychosis that people with bipolar disorder may suffer from during full-blown manic episodes.
Friday Reflection: Weathering my Rain
I loved the rain as a kid. Everything about it. There was something so liberating about letting raindrops fall on my skin, and the scent of rain that lingered in the air afterwards was refreshing. Not to mention the puddles of water to jump over and playing with the bugs that surfaced. Yeah, I was that kid.
Broken but Beautiful: Embracing the Scars
I was privileged to attend a youth empowerment program organised by the government, equipping the youth with life and business skills. This program ran for two weeks and in one afternoon, the facilitator walked in with three items wrapped like gifts.
TWSC Submission: I was Lured into a Marriage Under False Pretense
My relationship with my ex-husband was my second relationship. I dated him for four years with no red flag until I got pregnant. He had a wife in the rural areas and his family was very secretive about it. When I eloped to his house, we had to have a family meeting with family members. The meeting took three hours to start, but everyone was around. People were very hesitant to
Broken but Beautiful: Struggling with the Desire to Seek Revenge
My mother woke me up from an afternoon nap and after attending to her, I got enraged. I couldn’t understand why. I felt as though a heavy rock was laid on my chest. I could feel my heart’s palpitations and I started hyperventilating. I got flashbacks of painful memories, and I felt vengeful. My soul cried for justice.
Speak Out with Caroline: Denial- The Ugly Face of Addiction
Caroline Kagia is a certified addictions professional and recovering alcoholic. Speak Out with Caroline is a column dedicated to addiction and recovery from substance abuse and/or other forms of addiction. Read about Caroline's story here.
Kiseki Owner Mio Yamada Talks Entrepreneurship, Living in Rwanda & Decision to Only Hire Single Mums in Restaurant
When COVID-19 hit, Mio Yamada ignored an advisory by the Japanese Embassy to leave Rwanda and return to Japan. She had fallen in love with Africa as student in university when she cycled 5,000 km from Kenya to South Africa. Years later, she relocated to Rwanda with her family, opened up a restaurant, and decided that she would hire single mothers as her staff. Forced to shut do
Embracing my Journey as an Endo Warrior
I have struggled with excruciating menstrual periods since I was a teenager. It’s the kind of pain that pain medications don’t even begin to soothe. I have also spent the last eight years consulting numerous doctors because of my unexplained infertility. I did not realize that the two were related and that so many women are affected like me.
Author Amanda Tayte-Tait Opens up About Childhood Abuse & Inspiration Behind Recent Book
Eventually, my family found out through my boyfriend, who I had confided in. Everything went crazy at that point. A blame game went on between my father and mother. My mother even had to travel to South Africa to confront the person. The police got involved. I was barraged with questions, are you sure there was penetration? being a pretty consistent one. I did not know what the
Award-winning Model Ayanda Candice Sibanda: How I Rose Above Bullying & Discrimination Due to Albinism
This is a mantra that Ayanda Candice Sibanda, a phenomenal young woman, has lived by through every ordeal she has faced. She has faced bullying and discrimination but has managed to come out on top. Ayanda spoke to The Weight She Carries about how life has been for this award-winning model.
Winning Woman: Saray Khumalo
This week, we are spotlighting Saray Khumalo who is the first Black African woman to summit Mt. Everest and the South Pole. There is so much to admire about Saray. It took 5 years and 4 attempts to conquer Everest, but she did it on May 16, 2019.
TWSC Podcast: Episode 23 - Saray Khumalo
On May 16, 2019, Saray Khumalo became the first black African woman to summit Mount Everest. This was her 4th attempt. Saray was born in 1972 in Zambia but grew up in the township in Johannesburg.
From Motherless to Mother to 68 Homeless Children in Kenya
Esther Kanyutu, a mother of three kids, knew that God had a purpose for her in life. Today, she is a mother of 68 young girls and boys who were left homeless after the 2007 Kenya post-election violence. It all began when a police vehicle dropped those vulnerable kids in front of her house. She prayed to God to give her the strength to provide for and protect them. She knelt dow
How I Started Taking Care of Other People as a Calling
My name is Eunice Zvitiki, a mother of one handsome boy. I always had the zeal for a big family, not knowing God had His plan for a big family for me. I have, at the moment, five children that I support whilst they are at their homes. I have never been this fulfilled, and I still pray for more.
Speak Out with Caroline...Unscripted
My relationship with my dad was fantastic and continues to be to this day. My mother and I, though, were not ‘bosom buddies.’ For years on end, I always felt that she was too harsh, too critical of me. I feel she rejected me. My self-esteem was at an all-time low in my childhood. This followed me into the crucial teen years. The fact that I could not get any positive vibes or c
Undeterred: Marvelous Fungurani's Inspiring Journey to Earning Her University Degrees
Marvelous Fungurani walked The Weight She Carries through how mercy rewrote her life and how she herself had to make painful sacrifices to reach her goals of attaining an education. She narrated how the journey has been so far.
How Ropafadzo Banhwa Rewrote Her Story and Become a Marathon Runner
Ropafadzo Banhwa, due to a tragic event, found comfort in food. Although she has a fitness journey that spans from 2013 up to now, she shared with The Weight She Carries how her journey has been to this point.
Inspiration: Flora Mutahi
Nine months into her job as an auditor, Flora Mutahi handed in her resignation and quit. She had tried to find fulfillment in her work, but the truth is she just wasn’t committed to the job. Her family was utterly dumbfounded.
TWSC Podcast Episode 22: Flora Mutahi
Flora Mutahi, the woman behind Melvin Marsh International, had a successful career as an auditor when she seemingly out of the blue decided to quit her job to start a business. This is back in the 1995 when entrepreneurship wasn’t as celebrated as it is today. Definitely not for a woman in Kenya. Her family was appalled at her decision and refused to support her initially.
TWSC Series: Navigating Through Pain - Rosa’s Healing Journey
Pain and death are a part of life; to reject them is to reject life itself. Experiencing loss can be devastating, but experiencing triple loss can be catastrophic. Everything seems to have fallen apart. Having experienced different versions of intense loss led to my grieving.
How Marly Diallo is Saving the Environment by Recycling Lead Acid Batteries
Marly Diallo was born and raised in France and has Guinea roots. She visited Guinea plenty of times in her childhood and also had several business trips to different countries in Africa in the 12 years she worked as a sales manager for a software company. During her visits she experienced a fair share of power cuts. One such experience includes staying in a 4-star hotel in Accr
Finding Herself After Abuse, Teen Pregnancies and a Failed Marriage: How Patience Tarumbwa Managed to Rise Again
Patience Tarumbwa is a Zimbabwean woman who lives in Bulawayo, the second-largest city in Zimbabwe. She has four children: two boys and two girls.
Beauty for Ashes: How Terry Gobanga Found Healing and Love Again After Tragedy
On the night before her wedding, Terry realized that she had some clothes her fiancé Harrison “Harry” Olwande was supposed to wear for their wedding. Early in the morning of her wedding day, she took them to her friend, so she had to walk to a bus stop.
So, what can you do with your pain? More than you dreamed
There's no doubt about it, going through life can be hard. And you may find yourself in a position where you wonder why certain things are happening to you. Whether you're experiencing loss or dealing with a personal struggle, it can seem like nothing good will ever come from your pain. But I can attest to the fact that that line of thinking is flawed.
Desiree-Anne Martin Shares Her Battle and Recovery from Drugs and Alcohol
Desiree Ann Martin has conquered substance abuse, alcoholism and a whole lot more and lived to tell the story. She recently opened up to The Weight She Carries about how she chose life in the face of a slow but certain death. This is her story in her own words.
Founder of Noble Marketing Solutions & Nhery Sisters Foundation Shares her Entrepreneurial Journey
My name is Nyasha Manyuke, a 26-year-old single lady. I am the CEO of Noble Marketing Solutions & Founder of Nhery Sisters Foundation and based in Cape Town, South Africa. I moved to South Africa for greener pastures in 2017, but it was not as easy as I expected it to be. In the process of trying to make a living in a foreign country, I met Zimbabwean entrepreneurs but [I felt]
Readers' Choice: The Two Most-Read Stories of 2020
On this last day of 2020, I’m taking the time to reflect on the lessons and growth I’ve experienced this year. The last few years have been the most trying of my life and I was intentional this year about healing from the pain. My goal next year is to become transparent about what I have been through and invite you into my healing journey.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: 2020 Recap
2020 has been all sorts of emotional highs and lows for many of us. We have all had an interesting 2020, eventful in many great and some heartbreaking ways. However, you're still here and that’s what we celebrate.
This Woman's Story is a Reminder that You are Never 'Too Damaged' to be Loved
One of our most-read stories of 2020 was that of Hanna Stone - woman who lost her father at the age of eight and was taking in by an uncle whose wife was cruel to young Hanna.
Dear Reader, Thank You...
With all the ups and downs this year, we want to take a moment to say an enormous “THANK YOU” to you, our loyal readers. This year 199,503 of you came to our website to read our content. We appreciate all the shares, likes, comments and emails are truly grateful for your unwavering support.
How This Counsellor is Empowering Her Clients to Successfully Handle Transitions
Many people struggle with the uncertainly that change brings. That fear can be quite gripping. Enter Tricia-Kay Williams – the force behind Metamorphose Counselling. As an experienced counsellor, she helps her clients successfully navigate new seasons in their lives.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Staying Home Happily
In the last column, I shared ways we can spend time with our family and friends when we are not able to physically meet. The holidays are usually a time filled with activity or at least travel. This being such a different one, I thought to focus on how we can be home and happy. Staying home will obviously be more advisable just so we stay safe from the COVID-19 pandemic. But ho
How This Woman Learned to Embrace her Changing Appearance
Lebbeii Sibonokuhle Maseko noticed some discolouration on her skin in 2014 but didn't think much of it. The single mother of three later learned she had vitiligo, a condition in which the pigment cells of the skin, melanocytes, are destroyed in certain areas.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Keeping Connected in a New Normal
Healthy Mind, Healthy You is a weekly column written by Mental Wellness Coach Cynthia M. Each week, she will share insight on how you can be live a healthier life. You can read previous articles from this column here.
Star FM's Iyati a.k.a Fiona Itayi Takaendesa Shares Journey to Her Dreams
Radio personality Iyati is a natural-born conversationalist who loves telling and listening to real-life stories, reading and travelling. When her father objected to her continuing school after high school, she left home to live with relatives. Though it has taken years and meandering path, she finally obtained a university degree this year and is living out her dreams at Star
TWSC Submission: The Day I Lost My Baby and My Uterus
Her childhood was a complicated one. Raised in a polygamous family, Rosa’s father worked in the city while her biological mother lived in the village. Rosa lived in the city with her father and stepmother because she had an eye problem that required frequent treatment at a hospital.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Some Good Cheer
When I was a child, I remember the holidays just meant when the decorations go up and you have lots of yummy food and wait for Santa’s surprise under the tree that one day. Just seeing these little bits, we would already feel excited and in the mood for the December holidays. Sadly, as we have gotten older, good cheer is not so easy to spread.
Getting to Know The Mango Twins
Zimbabwean-born identical twins Juliana and Juliet are two of a kind and have a drive like no other. They are ambitious businesswomen, entrepreneurs and event organizers who like to call themselves “twinfluencers.” They are also the co-founders of Mango Bites Consulting and The Mango Twins and Zimbabwe Achievers Australia (ZAA) Young Achiever of the Year (2019).
Learning to Speak Again: How This Woman's Story Reminds us that Anything is Possible
I met Shalena almost 3 years ago at a women's conference called The Tell Your Story Conference by Chandi Rae in Dayton, Ohio. There was something about her that seemed so genuine and so hungry for her purpose. As we engaged in conversation, Shalena began to talk about how she had gotten into the conference. After just a few minutes of speaking with her, I knew I had to intervie
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: You vs the Holidays
December is finally here, usually this is when Christmas and other festive decorations go up and westart to feel that cheer in the air. This year, the Covid-19 pandemic seems to have robbed us of thisgood cheer. Aside from the many travel restrictions, if you do get to travel it’s so expensive – not tomention the risk of getting infected. We are grieving from the loss of loved
Finding Love as a Single Mom of 5 After an Abusive Marriage
Caroline Gulubani grew up in Bulawayo and has two younger siblings who live in Victoria Falls. They later relocated to the resort town of Victoria Falls, which is where she attended school. It was after completing secondary school that she met her first husband. She narrated to The Weight She Carries what transpired in her first marriage. This is her story:
TWSC Submission: Growing up Under the Shame of a False Narrative
Imagine having to live twenty years of your life believing that you have a chronic illness, only for you to find out the truth at a clinic. The following story is about 31-year-old Sarah* from Uganda who grew up thinking she was HIV-positive because her family jumped to conclusions. Sarah faced a lot of discrimination and stigma from family members and almost lost her self-este
Enjoy Connecting with Loved Ones Over Internet Calls? You’ve got Marian Croak to thank…
Did you know that the person who pioneered the technology we use for internet calls is a woman by the name of Marian Croak? She is currently the Vice President of Engineering at Google and holds over two hundred patents, including over one hundred related to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). This makes me feel like I'm lazy...
Kim's Healing Journey Pt. 4 [VIDEO]: Dealing with Setbacks
Sometimes we think the path to healing and deliverance from the pain we've experienced should be linear. We want to continue to progress steadily towards wholeness. The reality is that setbacks are inevitable in our healing journeys. What's important is that we give ourselves grace when we stumble. I like to think of healing as the process of cleaning up a mess caused by some e
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: How Can You be More Resourceful When Dealing with Disappointments?
Ever heard the expression,“This is a setup for a comeback.” Whether you have been told this or it's something you have said to someone, it's a statement meant to encourage someone who is down on their luck and feeling really defeated. It's about learning that a setback is not the final bit in your story, things can always change. But how do things change when they went so terri
Women Making History: Professor Puleng LenkaBula to Become Unisa’s First Woman Vice-Chancellor in University’s 148-year History
Professor Puleng LenkaBula will become the first woman vice-chancellor of the University of South Africa (Unisa). She has served as vice-rector of institutional change, student affairs and community engagement at the University of the Free State since May 2018.
Meet the Phenomenal Woman Behind Fempreneurs Magazine & LASACCO - Pearl Mbazima
Pearl Mbazima is a 40-year-old mother of three who lives in Mazowe, Zimbabwe. She is an accountant/auditor by profession. She studied for her Bachelor of Accounting Science with UNISA and did her Articles of Clerkship with Ernst & Young straight after her A Levels at Chisipite Senior School.
How This Woman's Story Reminds us it's Never Too Late to Tell Your Story
Today I am reminded of a woman I interviewed earlier this year named Claire Wambui. Her voice was bubbly and her laugh infectious. As she began to tell me about who is today, she sounded very polished and had a great understanding of who she is and what she brings to the table professionally.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Having a Strong Character Can Help to Handle Disappointments
Facing our negative emotions is always tough. Just like what I shared in the articles in September, we have to gear up for the fight for our healing and wholeness. This is always worth it in the end when your life starts to look and feel better. This week we focus on the second pillar in dealing with disappointment.
TWSC Submission: A Forced Marriage Didn't Stop me from Becoming who I Wanted to be
My name is Alice Tagwira. I was raised in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. I hold a higher diploma in business administration and I’m still pursuing my education. I am a business owner, a social entrepreneur, philanthropist and feminist. My organization She Glows was officially registered in 2020.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Vulnerability can Help us Deal with Disappointments
Now, we are in November 2020 where we are looking back at the year that was unlike any other year we have lived through. Aside from just the health risks and change in how we do things, COVID-19 affected most, if not all, our plans in one way or the other. Someone moved to a new place but was unable to start the life they hoped for due to COVID restrictions. Maybe you had just
Playwright Thembi Moyo Shares How She Emerged Stronger After Her Greatest Pain
Thembi Moyo, an internationally acclaimed playwright, shared with The Weight She Carries how she managed to let the pain of her loss shape her into the woman she has now become. She walked us through her journey.
Author of 'I Call on You Sis' Talks Menstrual Health and Inspiration for Vasikana Project
Zvisinei Dzepasi Mamutse is an accomplished woman. She is a mother of three children aged 25, 20 and 14, a wife to Honest Mamutse, a student pursuing a PhD in nursing with a focus on global health, a nurse practitioner certified in addiction health and menstrual health, the founder of Vasikana Project, a published author of a journal for women (“I Call on You Sis”) and brand am
TWSC Submission: How I Picked Myself up After Tragedy and Heartache
Constance Gwarawaziva, a 35-year-old single mother of two beautiful children, has had the odds against her time and time again. But with tears in her eyes and determination in her heart, she has overcome by investing in herself under very difficult circumstances. She talked to The Weight She Carries and walked us through her journey so far
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Self-Care for Resilience
This month, we have looked at so many dimensions of self-care in our personal growth, in our relationships and in the concept of how we can make self-care as lifestyle. As you have learnt how to navigate these different spaces, it’s important to get back to the main reason why self-care is so important.
Phillipa Sibanda Mandisodza Discusses Giving Up Six-figure Income to Serve Her Home Country
Phillipa Sibanda Mandisodza is a health professional and social impact entrepreneur who gave up her six-figure income in California to help rebuild the healthcare system in her home country Zimbabwe. She spent the past 15 years working in the healthcare field as a respiratory care practitioner and led healthcare projects such as clinic start-ups, robotics in intensive care sett
Wangari Muchiri Wins First REvolutionaries: The Steve Sawyer Memorial Award
Muchiri’s specialty is in technology innovation for peri-urban and off-grid communities. She is also a board member of the Kenya Green Building Society. There, she heads the technical committee that oversees sustainability practices in real estate. Muchiri participated in the 2019 Women in Wind Global Leadership Program hosted by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) in associa
South African Woman Single-handedly Renovates Her Own Home
Zama Philiswe Zungu is a civil engineer by profession and she said that constructing an extension of her own house was a good experience for her as she had the chance to put her theory into practice.
How This Woman Transformed Her Life and Found Her Purpose After Divorce
When her marriage fell apart seven years ago, Gloria F. Chivaenzi found herself broken and devastated. But in the midst of her pain, she chose to care for her body and value herself more. Today, she is on a mission to remind women, particularly single mothers, that they are precious and valuable. This is her story in her own words:
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Self-care for Healthy Relationships
As you have been working on taking care of yourself a lot more from a holistic perspective, it's time we move that out of just your sphere of control into your interpersonal relations. When we take care of ourselves, we are better in how we relate to others, and also because we are consciousness about self-care, we are able to shape these relationships better.
Celebrating Natalie Barlow on Becoming First African Woman to Earn Esteemed UEFA Certificate in Football Management
Natalie Barlow has graduated with the highly esteemed UEFA Certificate in Football Management, becoming the first African woman to successfully complete the management course.
Getting to Know Farie Grace Chiunduramoyo - Founder of Graciey Investments
Farie is an energetic young lady whose aim is to empower women and youth through motivational speaking. I hold an honours [degree] in human resources management from the Midlands State University and a CIS and business maintenance and sales certificate. I am the founder of Graciey Investments. Graciey Investments includes Grace Health Solutions and Grace Cleaning Services. I am
Congolese Woman Goes Against the Grain as a Motorcycle Taxi Driver
Women continue to defy odds and change the narrative. The following story is about how a widow, Imelda Mbambu from Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo, is earning a living through driving a motorbike taxi. Many women become helpless after losing a spouse whom they depended on financially. But for Mbambu, who was once a farmer, losing her husband 10 years ago led to a turnaround
From Teen Mom to Award-Nominated Author & Businesswoman
Nonduduzo Ncube is a 30-year-old author who was born in Beitbridge, a border town in the province of Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe. However, she was raised in Bulawayo, the second-largest city. She went to Mpopoma High School and was raised by very strict parents.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Self-Care for Growth
As women, we have a lot of things that we go through, and sometimes we shrink back and retreat from situations without realising how these experiences could help us grow. Bob Proctor said, “...change is inevitable but personal growth is a choice.” This just shows how growth can either be seen as a chosen course of action or as a matter of the natural order of things. In looking
How Breast Cancer Survivor Lucky Ndanu Learned to Love Her Body After Losing Her Breast
She was in her final year of college when she felt a lump in her right breast. Then came the diagnosis: breast cancer. She was just 22. It didn’t seem real; it couldn’t be. Life was just beginning, and like her peers, she had plans to take the world by storm. What started out as a small lump would drastically alter her body but also introduce her to a new woman she has grown to
How Tyra Chikocho "Madam Boss" Built an International Brand Despite the Odds Being Stacked Against Her
Tyra Chikocho, well known as Madam Boss, is a multitalented woman, wife and mother. She grew up between rural areas and Harare, Zimbabwe's capital city.“ Childhood was painful and tough..my mum passed on when I was in Grade 6," Tyra told The Weight She Carries." I was left brokenhearted as my mother had been sick for some time but requested to be discharged so she [could spend]
TWSC Submission: Healing from devastating pregnancy loss
On the 18th of February 2019, I told the midwife that there was no movement in my womb. She asked me to rush to the hospital. When I arrived, I was asked to take an ultra-scan. It was then that it was confirmed that the baby was no longer alive. I was admitted immediately and induced. I was 34 weeks pregnant.
How Sarah Takawira Rebuilt Her Life After Domestic Abuse
Sarah Takawira is a twin born in a family of six. Although she hails from Chipinge, a small town in Zimbabwe, she now resides in Harare, the capital city. After failing her O Levels, her father told her that she would not be repeating her studies. Instead, she would have to wait to get married.
Senegalese AI Researcher Adji Bousso Dieng to Become First Black Female Faculty Member to Join Princeton’s School of Engineering & Applied Science
Artificial Intelligence (AI) researcher Adji Bousso Dieng will become the first black woman faculty to join Princeton’s School of Engineering in its 100-year history. Dieng is currently an AI researcher at Google, working in the field of generative modeling. In an interview with Forbes, she explained how generative modeling works.
Serial Entrepreneur Gladys Mpemba Shares Keys to Success & Advice for Emerging Entrepreneurs
Gladys Sheilla Mpemba is a labour consultant, independent arbitrator, owner of Ice Cherry Boutique, director of Retreat Lodge and Conference Centre, founder of Dream Achievers and sits on a number of schools’ board of management. She is married to Shepherd and has two daughters. She is also proudly a United Methodist congregant.
Rising from Academic Failure to Award-Winning Farmer
Growing up in African societies, we are taught that education is the key to success. Yes, education is important, but one would think that without a decent educational qualification, life is automatically arduous. Well, 25-year-old award-winning South African farmer Siphesihle Kwetana saw hope beyond her academic failure.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: It’s Time to Drop the Baggage
These are all practical guides to just some of the pointers in this journey, but mental wellness is always a journey one must choose for themselves. I always emphasise that being emotionally unwell only becomes a problem that can be changed if the person who is not well wants to change. This just means unless you want to change the state you are in, you will carry on with the b
Making History: Barbara Gonzalez's Story Reminds Us that Age is Irrelevant
Barbara Gonzalez has made history, becoming the first woman to hold the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Simba Sports Club in Tanzania. It is uncommon for a woman to have a leading role at any football team in the country. Gonzalez is however changing the narrative, but it comes with its own challenges.
Sandra Areka: The Power of Passion and Purpose
Sandra Areka is a woman who was born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. She is passionate about working with girls and women, inspiring them to discover their personality, passion and purpose. She is also a professional counsellor, motivational speaker, author, event planner and entrepreneur.
Winning Woman Series: Kgomotso Phatsima
I'm excited about our Winning Woman this week because her story is a reminder that our inner child is almost always spot on when it comes to our purpose.
Laizah Baera: Choosing my Calling Above Everything Else
Laizah Baera is an energetic and excited young woman, aged 33. She has been a pastor with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Zimbabwe for the past 12 years. She shared her story about her journey in the ministry with The Weight She Carries.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Gearing up for the Fight
As you have now understood, the emotional healing process is no walk in the park. It is more of a battle that you need to prepare for. In our quest for healing and wholeness, it is important to realize that in every good thing you will ever want to do in life, you will face adversity. We don’t always accept this fact, so we don't prepare for it either.
Survival Mode: When We Can’t See Beyond Today
When I read the story of Peter and John healing the beggar at the temple gate, what strikes me about the lame man is his behaviour. It was an ordinary day for him. He had learnt to manage his expectations over the years. All he hoped for was that a few people would feel sorry for him and give him some money.
How Noluthando Makalima is Conquering the World of Surfing Despite Being Born with Cerebral Palsy
Noluthando Makalima is a force to be reckoned with. The 32-year-old adaptive surfer recently received the Minister’s Recognition of Excellence Award at the Momentum gsport Awards and holds a silver medal from the World Paralympic Championships, held this year in the United States.
Author Dorine Drake Shares How She Decided Years Ago Not to Let HIV or Cancer Defeat Her
Dorine Drake is living her best life. The 52-year-old mother of one has an energetic and infectious spirit and it is evident that she has an inner joy that no one can strip her of.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Facing the Pain
It's not going to be easy but one of the best things you will ever do for yourself is facing your pain. I already described how emotional hurts can be similar to physical ones. So I will now describe the process of facing our pain using the process that we use for dealing with a flesh wound.
Lynder Nkuranga is the First Woman to be Appointed Director of External Intelligence for Rwanda
Last month, Lynder Nkuranga became the first woman to be named Director of External Intelligence for Rwanda. Previously, this position had been held by top-ranking men in the military.
How This Kenyan DJ with Cerebral Palsy is Pursing Her Passion by DJ'ing with Her Feet
Winfred was born with cerebral palsy, a group of permanent disorders that affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. In Wanjiku’s case, her arm movement was affected.
Award-winning Philanthropist Patience Ndebele-Omijie Shares Inspiring Message on Empowering Others
Patience Ndebele-Omijie is a philanthropist and an award-winning community champion for women, men and youth empowerment. She is founder of Inspire Women Men and Children, a charity organization based in London, United Kingdom and in Zimbabwe, also known as Inspire Women and Children.
Choosing Football Over Royal Duties is Paying Off for Rhoda Mulaudzi
30-year-old Limpopo princess, who ditched her crown for soccer, has won the Woman Player of The Year award courtesy of South African Journalist Awards (SAFJA).
Winning Woman Series: Awah Francisca Mbuli
Has someone ever planned evil against you but their wrongdoing actually propelled you into your purpose? Well, Awah Francisca Mbuli was trafficked by someone she knew from childhood and found herself bound to domestic servitude and sexually abused in Kuwait.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Our Scars in Disguise
Emotional hurt, unlike physical hurt, has no obvious scarring that we can all physically see and know that something happened and this person got hurt. This is how many people go on for years unaware of hurt that they still carry and still causes damage in their present lives.
Chelsea Cakes: Meet the Creator of Golden Moments Through Sweetness
Chelsea Cakes is a company which seeks to create golden memories through delicacies. I have always had a passion about baking from a tender age, and it passed through to high school where I did food and nutrition. So right after Form 4, I went to a family friend who owned a bridal company and she taught me more. From there, the journey began.
INSPIRATION: Nuclear Scientist Senamile Masango
Today’s story is about Senamile Masango, who discovered a love for science and astronomy at the young age of 11. One lesson about astronauts changed her life and she never imagined herself doing anything different.
Ghanaian Entrepreneur Bernice Dapaah is Transforming Lives by Making Bamboo Bikes
Have you ever heard of bamboo bikes? Bamboo, which is highly available in Ghana, is mainly used in making fabrics, wine, vinegar, biochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Domestically, bamboo is used to make mats, baskets and canoes.
#TBT: Gems from Mary Wanjiku Gichuhi's Story
Today, I'm going to take you back to a story we published back in 2018 on domestic violence. I remember interviewing Mary Wanjiku Gichuhi and being amazed at her strength and courage as she shared the harrowing details of her story.
Meet Niqita Pieterse: A Woman Making Furniture From Recycled Tyres
True to the word that being HIV positive does not mark an end to one’s life but marks a beginning of a changed way of life, Niqita Pieterse has not let her health condition deter her from pursuing her goals and living a normal life. The young lady, who is based in Durban, South Africa, is living with HIV and has been open about it for over a decade. Pieterse, an HIV activist, r
Breaking Barriers: Faith Ben-Anuge Becomes First Woman to be Named COO of Nigeria's Women's Football League
African women continue to break new ground and the appointment of Faith Ben-Anuge as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Nigeria’s Women’s Football League (NWFL) is a recent addition to the list.
Healthy Mind, Healthy You: Are You Emotionally Well?
Healthy Mind, Healthy You is a weekly column written by Mental Wellness Coach Cynthia M. Each week, she will share insight on how you can be live a healthier life.
How This Young Tanzanian Nutritionist is Tackling 'Hidden Hunger' in her Country
Jolenta Joseph from Tanzania, who recently won an international award for fighting hunger, is making nutritious food affordable for low-income earners and the less privileged.
Healing Moment: There is Someone Waiting to Meet You
On the other side of a struggle is the best version of ourselves if we endure the process.
TWSC Series: From Teen Mom to Serial Entrepreneur – LaChelle Jackson’s Meandering Journey to Success - Part 2
Being an entrepreneur is in LaChelle Jackson’s blood. Her father was self-employed and worked in construction while her mother handled the administrative part of the business. Watching her parents work hard to provide for the family fueled LaChelle to be the serial entrepreneur she is today. She is a hairstylist, candy maker, insurance agent…just to name a few.
How Eunice Dlamini Went From Vegetable Vendor to Being Crowned 'Businesswoman of the Year'
Eunice Dlamini is a vibrant woman of high integrity. She grew up as the last born in a family of six and rose from a vegetable vendor to a widely celebrated businesswoman. She recently spoke to The Weight She Carries about how she rose to success.
Malawian Sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chiwanga Make Waves On and Off the Soccer Field
Recently, I came across two Malawian sisters who are just like them: Tabitha and Temwa Chiwanga, who play soccer. The sisters have helped build each other’s careers, and I can only imagine how they did it without rivalry coming between them.
#TBT: Gems from Crystal Asige's Story
I'll never forget the day I interviewed Crystal Asige. It was in the wee hours of the morning for me, and what struck me the most when I first heard her voice was how friendly she was. She sounded completely at peace and I could hear a sense of joy in her voice.
Body Oil & a Labour of Love: Learning to Accept and Love my Scars After Trauma
The December ‘08/January ‘09 summer holiday was eventful as always: weddings, Christmas and New Years’ functions, and lots of catching up with family and friends. As was tradition, the holiday culminated in a final night out before I and my fellow diaspora students would part ways, returning home 11 months later to do it all again.
Emma Theofelus Makes Avance Media's 2020 Most Influential African Women List at Just 24
Twenty-four-year-old Namibian Information, Communication and Technology Deputy Minister Emma Theofelus, is a major highlight on Avance Media’s second publication of Africa’s 100 Most Prominent Women.
Marah – the Place Before “Immeasurably More”
"Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.) So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, 'What are we to drink?'"
Healing Moment: Growth is Never Perfect
Healing never looks perfect. One minute you're going one way, and the next, you take a sharp left. Be kind to yourself and extend the same amount of grace you would give someone you love to yourself.
INSPIRATION: How South Sudanese-born Professional Ugandan Netball Player Mary Nuba Defied the Odds
Though challenges are meant to build and grow us, many times when we face trials we throw in the towel. We try something different or give up totally. If you ever think of giving up, then Mary Cholhok Nuba’s story will certainly make you change your mind.
Meet Sandra Owusu-Antwi: Founder & CEO of First African-American Luxury Brand Launched in South Korea
Sandra Owusu-Antwi is a Ghanaian-American woman who is the founder and CEO of Mabel Brempong, the first African-American luxury brand to launch in South Korea.
Winning Woman Series: Jaha Dukureh
At the age of 15, Jaha Dukureh was sent away from her home country of The Gambia to New York City for an arranged marriage to a man in his 40s. It was then that she learned that she had undergone the most extreme type of FGM as a baby.
Documentary Released on Zimbabwean All-female Anti-poaching Team Akashinga
Zimbabwe's veteran women rangers, the Akashinga, gain limelight in latest short documentary which profiles their bravery to combat poaching in a life-threatening environment.
Victoria Grandmothers for Africa Cycle Virtually This Year to Support African Grandmothers Raising AIDS-orphaned Children
The Victoria Grandmothers for Africa (VG4A) are undertaking a virtual cycling tour this year meant to raise funds for fellow grandmothers in Africa who are caring for AIDS-orphaned children.
#TBT: Gems from Dr. Nothabo Ncube's Story
Two years ago, we interviewed Dr. Nothabo Ncube and featured her story on our website. Her world was shattered when her mother died when she was just 14. At the funeral, the young teenager made a promise to her mother as she stood over her casket: she would make her mother proud and pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.
UCT Chancellor Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe and Actress/Producer Nomzamo Mbatha among women featured in Facebook Africa eBook
University of Cape Town (UCT) chancellor Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe and alumnus Nomzamo Mbatha have been honoured by Facebook Africa; an eBook which features their inspiring work has been published. The eBook, which features Moloi-Motsepe, Mbatha and 11 other influential women in South Africa, is titled Inspiring #Changemakers: Lessons from Life and Business.
Healing Moment: It's not for Naught
Losing something you once cherished can be devastating. And the pain may be debilitating for a while. But maybe you need to change your perspective. Could it be that what you lost never would have survived your new season? And maybe if it had, it would have drained the life out of you instead of nourish you.
Founder of Events by Lyn Shares How She Turned Her Passion into a Booming Business
Lyn is what most people describe as a perfectionist. She is particular about what she wants and how it is done. Lyn best describes herself as “a God-fearing young woman who gives 110% to everything that she touches or gets involved in.”
Renowned Makeup Artist Mali Thomas Joins Bobbi Brown Brand as NEW Global Artist in Residence
Exceptional Nigerian-born makeup artist Mali Thomas has been selected by Bobbi Brown Cosmetics as their new Global Artist in Residence. Mali Thomas, who has over ten years’ experience in the field started off from humble beginnings, working in a restaurant before becoming a visual artist.
How Storyteller Fungai Mettler Managed to Overcome all Odds After the Death of her Parents
Fungai Mettler is a 29-year-old Zimbabwean-born inspirational philanthropist and corporate social entrepreneur who was featured in a book project called 50 Young African Women Achievers.
Celebrating Abena Amoah's Historic Appointment as Deputy Managing Director of the Ghana Stock Exchange
Capital markets expert, Abena Amoah made history last month following her appointment by the Council of the Ghana Stock Exchange (the Exchange) as its Deputy Managing Director. She assumed her posted on Aug. 1.
Women In Big Data South Africa to Exhibit at Online AI Expo Africa 2020 this September
Women In Big Data South Africa will, for the first time, be exhibiting at this year’s online AI Expo Africa 2020 which will be focusing on women in AI and Data Science across the region. The expo is the continent’s largest trade-focused Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Data Science business conference.
Get to Know the Dynamic Ladies of Nobuntu
Nobuntu is a five-member, all-female acapella/imbube ensemble from the city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe. Their repertoire is a fusion of traditional Zimbabwean music, mainly rooted in Afro-jazz, gospel and crossover in pure voices with minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as mbira and dance movements.
Kim's Healing Journey Pt. 3 [VIDEO]: Haunted by the Shame of Sexual Abuse
This week, Kim bravely talks about the shame that haunted her as a result of the sexual abuse she suffered as a child. As she narrates her experience, you can hear the pain her voice.
How Nozizwe Mhlanga's Name Has Moulded Her Work as a Philanthropist
Nozizwe Mhlanga, whose first name translates to “mother of nations,” was born into a family of eight children. Her parents instilled in her the importance of helping the less fortunate - a virtue that would lead to great impact in her community. Here is her story:
Winning Woman Series: Tegla Loroupe
Tegla set many world records and won countless races throughout her career as an athlete, but did you know that the only support she received when she decided to pursue running as a career was from her mother? Everyone else discouraged her, believing she didn't have what it took. Listen to how she defied the odds!
Like It's Already So
In the story of Jesus feeding 5,000 men, His intention was to go to a quiet place with His disciples. They got into a boat and headed to a solitary place. But recognizing Jesus and His disciples, many ran ahead of them, so that by the time Jesus reached the other side, there was a large crowd waiting for Him.
TWSC Submission: When Daddy Left
My father, I still remember his face because of the photos they have shown me. He disappeared when I was six years old. I was the only child from my father but my mother had other children. By the time she met my father, she had [five] children. She eventually had 10 children and I was the sixth one. There was no relationship at all with my siblings because they had different f
Founder of PETREACE Clothing Brand Shares How She Established & Grew an International Brand
I started designing at the age of 5 when I was taught by my mother how to knit jerseys [sweaters]. My mother was well-known for knitting baby wear and school jerseys and she decided to train me as she saw the eagerness to learn from her young daughter. I started by making jerseys for my dolls and developed the talent to knitting jerseys and clothes for myself and siblings by th
Angela's Healing Journey Pt. 1 [VIDEO]: The Day I Left my Abuser
For years, Angela Mutie suffered gravely at the hands of an abusive partner. We featured her story on our site; you can read it here. It wasn't easy, but Angela found the courage to leave her abusive husband and began to rebuild her life with her son.
Celebrating Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng - Newly Appointed Special Rapporteur for Health at UNHCR
Known for being outspoken and speaking her mind, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng wears many hats. She is a Commissioner at the Commission for Gender Equality in South Africa, a general practitioner, runs a reproductive clinic in Sandton and serves as the vice-chairperson of the Sexual and Reproductive Justice Coalition.
Winning Woman Series: Rebecca Enonchong
Rebecca Enonchong lived an incredibly privileged life in Cameroon. She had a well-known last name, thanks to her father’s accomplishments, and went to one of the most prestigious schools in the country. Well, that all came to a screeching halt when her family moved to the United States of America when Rebecca was a teen.
Nomalanga: The Game Changer and Passionate Entrepreneur
Women are an important part of life, society and in individuals’ lives at large. One person once said, “You give a woman a house, and she turns it into a home.” I believe if you give a woman an idea, she turns it into a business. Meet Nomalanga “Noma” Ncube AKA Working Girl.
Kuchengetana Trust Serves Over 300,000 Meals to Less Privileged in Response to COVID-19; Founder Shares Her Story
Chitungwiza, a small town that is approximately 26 km from Harare’s central business district, now has its own Tabitha by the name of Samantha Shingirai Murozoki. She has always been keen to help the needy from a young age. Now she is assisting the less privileged who are failing to put food on the table or clothe themselves properly during this COVID-19 era. This is her story:
TWSC Submission: My HIV Status Does Not Define Me
It is not clear how I contracted the sickness because my boyfriend at the time [was] negative. But looking back, I think I might have gotten it from a razor cut [from a blade] that was used to cut my mom's sister who was already bedridden with AIDS.
Maybe, Just Maybe
Suffering was her middle name. Twelve long years of pain, disappointment, disgrace, shame, and loneliness. No one wanted to be around her for fear that her "uncleanliness" would rub off onto them. Nobody could help her. She went from one referral to the next, each one failing her. No one understood what she was going through because her condition was incomprehensible.
How Now-Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa Overcame Bullying, Negative Labels and Depression: The Story of Sharon Msiza
“Growing up, I was always a loner," Sharon told The Weight She Carries. "I preferred to be in my bedroom reading a book than to go out and play. But this did not suggest that I did not have any friends nor that I never used to play. One of my brothers made sure I was out and about. 'Don’t you have any friends, Sharon? Please go play and stop being idle,' he would say."
Winning Woman Series - Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr
Our winning woman this week is a woman who refused to sit back and watch the demise of her people. Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr was working in London when she heard of the rebel invasion in her hometown of Freetown, Sierra Leone. Then she learned that her husband's elderly aunt had been burnt alive. Seeing images of children with amputated limbs deeply troubled Yvonne.
Celine's Healing Journey Part 2 [VIDEO]: Letting go of Shame
In her last video, Celine talked about the pain she lived with for many years from repeated abuse. This week she's talking about how shame consumed her and held her down. Watch her share how she was able to be free of shame:
Our Days are Like a Passing Shadow
When a person is born, the next thing he or she must do is live. How you live is determined by you. You have a choice to live like a beggar or like a king. You make the most out of your own life. We live only once.
TWSC Submission: Surviving the Loss of Three Stillborn babies and my Uterus
My first pregnancy was when I was 20 years old. I remember I was [doing] my teacher's training school then and in my first year. I carried the pregnancy well, but it was a bit hectic because like any other pregnant woman, I craved some things and hated other things. But eventually everything was fine and labour started normally. My husband was not home but I called him.
Kim's Healing Journey Part 2 [VIDEO]: Dealing with my Anger
In Kim's first video, she talked about how difficult it was to come to terms with the abuse she experienced and trying to forgive her abuser so she could move forward with her life.
TWSC Winning Woman Series - Tadzi Madzima
Tadzi Madzima, founder of IGNITE Youth Organisation, was raised by a single mother who was multitasking and had a lot on her plate. Tadzi thought opening up to her mother and seeking advice and direction would be like adding more weight to the heavy burden she already had.
Tying the Knot During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Many women dream of having a big wedding and making that grand entrance with friends and relatives ululating and putting zambia cloths (kanga) for you to step on. You will be the centre of attention on that special day and everyone will be dancing and celebrating the day with you.
TWSC Discussion: So, We've Been Thinkin'...Self-love
Hey, Sis! So we'd like to create some discussion around self-love because we believe it's been grossly misunderstood. God bless the adults in our lives who raised us and taught us to be kind and giving people. But many of us fell into the people-pleasing trap because we didn't know we could value others and ourselves at the same time.
Peperusha Binti Founder Speaks on Donating Sanitary Towels to Girls in Need and Challenges Brought on by COVID-19
Despite the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic and a personal health crisis that landed her in hospital, Peperusha Binti founder Sharon Jesscah Odhiambo continues to advocate for young women and girls her organization supports.
Founder of IGNITE Youth Organisation Shares How Personal Journey Inspired Her to Create Mentorship for Youth
Tadzi Madzima was raised by a single mother who was multitasking and had a lot on her plate. Tadzi thought opening up to her mother and seeking advice and direction would be like adding more weight to the heavy burden she already had.
The Healing Process
Whenever an object cuts through the skin deep enough to puncture a vein or artery, we bleed. The amount of blood oozing out is determined by the depth and location of the cut. If the cut is superficial, the bleeding will be minor. If a major blood vessel is cut, bleeding will be substantial.
Dear Change
I’ve struggled more times than I can count to adapt to the abrupt shift you bring. You’ve often come as a gift I could clearly recognize because you were bright and shiny and appealed to all my senses. I’ve welcomed you many times with open arms and found it hard to contain my excitement over the idea of you.
Celine's Healing Journey Part 1 [VIDEO] - Surviving a Life Filled with Trauma
One of the beloved members of our TWSC family is Celine Njoki. She first shared her story with us in December 2018 and I remember being horrified by the details of her story and amazed at her strength. You can read her story here.
TWSC Winning Woman Series - Salma Okonkwo
Hey ladies! I'm excited to share this week's Winning Woman with you. I absolutely love her story and the impact she is having on the lives of so many people in her home country of Ghana.
Natural Hair Stylist & Owner of Hair by Fia Shares Tips on Caring for Your Curls
Hair by Fia was birthed out of one woman's determination to be a cut above the rest. As a natural hair advocate, she is a hairdresser who exclusively deals with hair in its natural state. Sofia Dhliwayo narrated to The Weight She Carries how it all began.
Self-Love Moment: It's not Personal
There is a lot that you don’t have control over. You cannot control how someone treats you, but you can control how you respond. People often mistreat others because they are empty or hurting. It’s not personal, you just happen to be in their path.
Kim's Healing Journey Part 1 [VIDEO]: Wrestling with Unforgiveness
As a child, The Weight She Carries Contributor Kim Mukwa suffered extreme abuse at the hands of her stepmother. While she was helpless then, she is now taking back her power and sharing her healing journey with us.
How Hanna Stone Went from a Life of Abuse to Finding Love and Happiness
Hanna Stone has lived through devastating abuses that began in childhood. She was born in Harare, Zimbabwe in 1986. She is the eldest of two children and suffered her first loss at age eight.
TWSC Winning Woman Series: Lorna Rutto
Our Winning Woman this week is Lorna Rutto, founder of EcoPost, a company that collects plastic waste and manufactures highly durable, environmentally friendly products that are widely used across Kenya.She began working in banking after graduating with a degree in commerce and accounting. It seemed like a safe field that offered the kind of security most people seek, but Lorna
Shedding the Weight – the Parts of me That Must Die
Deciduous trees shed their leaves as winter approaches to conserve water and energy. It’s a form of self-preservation for a number of reasons.
Grizelda Grootboom Shares her Story of Homelessness, Betrayal and Exploitation
Grizelda Grootboom is at the forefront of the fight against sex trafficking. Whether it is speaking to young women and girls as she signs copies of her book "EXIT!" after a conference or addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York, her commitment to combating sex trafficking is undeniable. It comes from her own experience as a young woman trapped in sex slavery f
TWSC Winning Series - Monica Musonda
Hey ladies! Hope you are in the mood for some inspiration. We're continuing with our Winning Woman series and this week we are highlighting Monica Musonda, CEO and founder of Java Foods.
TWSC Submission: Healing from a Painful Childhood
Sometimes the grown ups in our lives mess up big time and create deep-seated wounds that take years to heal from. Phoebe experienced a series of events that marred her childhood and ultimately led to separation from her loved ones and being forced into child labour. This is her story in her own words:
When Our Issues are Running the Show
The men were coming from the tombs. The demons had such influence over these men that they controlled their thoughts and actions. Had they been in their right minds, the men would not be living in the tombs. The demons had these two men confined to an area where dead things were placed. And the men were so violent that no one dared to come into their presence.
TWSC Winning Woman Series - Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu
We're continuing our Winning Woman series. This week we are shining a spotlight on Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu. She is a powerhouse whose ability to expand an idea to help curb poverty in her local community into a global enterprise makes her our Winning Woman pick this week.
Nicole Jamu: How Taking a Leap of Faith Landed me my Dream Job
Growing up, I always had a love for radio. I went to two unsuccessful auditions whilst I was still in varsity (Midlands State University in Gweru, Zimbabwe). Before I graduated, the arts faculty was relocated to Zvishavane. That’s how I got to know about YAFM and I became a regular listener. What struck me was its uniqueness and authenticity and that’s what reminded me I needed
Losing Baby Angela
Jenna and Daniel are a lovely couple from the Philippines. They have been married for 12 years and had been dating for four years prior to that. They were blessed with three sons: James (12), Zachary (3), and Ronron (1).
How She Turned Her Story of Pain into Helping Women who Have Suffered Baby Loss
I got married at 21 years of age and immediately got pregnant. Throughout my pregnancy, I never had any problems. I went to every appointment with my doctor and did all scans and tests. The day my labour started, I packed my bags and went to my local hospital. When I got there, all checks were done and everything was normal including the baby's heartbeat.
TWSC Winning Woman Series - Sibongile Sambo
We're beginning a new series where we highlight black women, past and present, who rose above their circumstances and achieved a level of success that surpassed their wildest dreams. In each episode, we share key lessons that you can apply to your own life.
How Righteous Chawane Began to Heal After the End of Her 5-Month Marriage
Thirty-three-year-old Righteous Chawane grew up in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga, South Africa and knew as a child that she was destined to serve. The first of five children born to Dr. Ray and Pastor Precious Chawane, the desire to serve didn’t fall far from the tree.
Loss, Heartbreak and the Death of Loved Ones: Hazvineyi Dumba's Story of Healing and Managing Adversities
Norest Hazvineyi Dumba grew up in the high-density suburbs of Glen View 1 in Harare. Her family valued love, peace, happiness and loyalty. Her father was a truck driver and her mother a businesswoman.
TWSC Podcast: Adapting to change Pt. 1 - Interview with Wellness Coach CeetheCoach
After a long break, we are back with another podcast episode! This is part of a 3-part series we will be doing over the next few weeks. We're discussing change and how we can adapt to it without losing sight of who we are. CeetheCoach also explains the differences between boundaries and walls and how we can protect our emotional integrity when things fall apart.
TWSC Series: From Teen Mom to Serial Entrepreneur – LaChelle Jackson’s Meandering Journey to Success – Part 1
Being an entrepreneur is in LaChelle Jackson’s blood. Her father was self-employed and worked in construction while her mother handled the administrative part of the business. Watching her parents work hard to provide for the family fueled LaChelle to be the serial entrepreneur she is today. She is a hairstylist, candy maker, insurance agent…just to name a few.
TWSC Submission: How my Marriage and Womb were Restored
Those are the words shared by Vimbai Ncube who was born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, as the youngest of four children. Because she was born during the wartime in 1973, the family had to relocate from Entumbane to Queens Park where her father worked as a cook for a white family. Entumbane had become the epicentre of the Bulawayo battle named Gukurahundi.
TWSC Submission: Finding Fulfillment in Doing What I Love
My name is Dorah Saziso Ncube Zibengwa. I stay in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. I am a mother of two and expecting the third child. I am a Ndebele and English news anchor at Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC). I started working at ZBC in 2016 after I managed to pull through auditions for news presenters. I had always been a fluent reader and always enjoyed reading, and I believe tha
Winning Woman: Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu is a powerhouse whose ability to expand an idea to help curb poverty in her local community into a global enterprise makes her our Winning Woman pick this week.
TWSC Submission: How I Learned to Value Myself After Many Years of Bad Relationships
I come from a family of nine children. My mother lost one, so we are now eight. As a teenager, we were living in a one-bedroom apartment and I didn't find the place comfortable. I had a hatred for my dad. I didn't like the fact that he would drink, come home very late and wouldn't pay attention to us, his kids. I would see other children growing up with proper care from their f
MC, Radio Personality Gogo Beau Discusses Achieving Success Despite the Odds Being Stacked Against Her
I was born through what some people might call incest. My mother was impregnated by her sister’s husband’s brother. She used to visit her sister frequently (in Gutu, Zimbabwe) and that is how she ended up falling in love with her brother-in-law. One thing led to another and my mother ended up falling pregnant and eloped.
Time Tests Faith
You can easily tell whether someone is walking in faith or in unbelief when they are pressed by time. When pressure builds after an expected process has refused to yield the desired result and you begin to wonder whether or not you heard God right, that’s unbelief, not faith. Many people unknowingly walk in unbelief every day because they do not fully understand what it means t
Overcoming Heartbreak and Depression: Tariro's Story
Tariro Chasi was born and raised in Zimbabwe in the early 90s and then moved to Namibia to be with her parents back in 2009. She told The Weight She Carries that growing up, she was a very cheerful, loving and ambitious young girl. She was very friendly and sociable, too.
Healing from a Failed Marriage
Sandra* was my college professor in a psychology course back in 2008. She is the mother of two girls and has a master’s degree in psychology in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (Manila). She is very smart, a fashionista and fluent in speaking English, which really amazed us. At the time, I thought that she was a foreigner.
TWSC Submission: When Mama Died
While the loss of a mother is devastating at any age, one of our readers reached out to us to share her story about losing her mother at the age of eight and the series of events that transpired after. She asked for her story to be published anonymously. This is her story:
TWSC Submission: Losing my Sister
Sisterly bonds are one of the most powerful bonds. What happens when one loses a sister, especially one that had taken up the role of both mother and breadwinner?
Dear Woman
This is an assertion to every woman out there: You are beautiful – a beautiful beauty that radiates from within. You are more than that: you are fire, spirit and force combined. Life forces often compress and pressure you and instead of dissolving away, you come out as beautiful as a diamond! A rare diamond cooked under intense pressure.
Names and Labels Cannot Define Our Destiny: Tadzei Zhou’s Story
Born with a name that had a negative connotation, Tadzei Njerere grew up with the constant reminder that her father wished she were a boy. She recently talked to The Weight She Carries about growing up in a family and community where being a girl was of little value.
Beating the Odds
Growing up without parents and with a low self-esteem, it is difficult for one to dream of excelling, let alone writing a motivational book. The following story is about Evelyn Moyo, a lady who beat the odds and did not use her background as an excuse for failure.
Former Miss Universe Zimbabwe Langa Lloyd Talks Beauty in Embracing Self-Love
Langa Lloyd began modelling in 1994 at the age of 23 and went on to be a contestant in Miss Universe 20 years go. Like the current Miss Universe, Zozibini Tunzi, Langa was the only contestant with short hair.
Finding the Courage to Finally Speak Out After 25 Years of Silence
Having worked in journalism for the past 13 years and also working for a social media management company, Claire Wambui knows the power of effective communication. The art of gathering information, reconstructing it to suit the intended audience and disseminating it to the masses through the most appropriate vehicle is a skill she has mastered. But when it came to her personal
Founder of 'Let Them Speak' Discusses Vision for Supporting Survivors of Sexual and Gender-based Violence
Troubled by the numerous stories of abuse she heard in her community, Charlotte Chisoni was moved to action and is now running an organization that helps victims and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence find their voice. She spoke to The Weight She Carries about how she is challenging what has been normalized for far too long.
Sis, Let's Talk About That Man-Made Love
When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden and realized that they were naked, they scurried off to find a solution – albeit temporary – for something that was missing. They were exposed and because they couldn’t bear the reality of their choice, they rushed to create a pseudo-solution from the work of their hands.
From Single Mother to Newlywed: How God Gave Me the Courage to Love Again
My love story is interesting. My husband was a moderator in a certain Facebook group called Single and Saved. I had been in that group for one year and had never noticed him, neither had he, until September 2018. I was going through a very difficult season, betrayal from friends and trying to heal both emotionally and physically.
Danai Ruze: From Child Bride to Young Woman Striving for Empowerment
Danai Ruze is the only daughter in a family of three in a small town in Zimbabwe called Murehwa, which is 75 kilometers northeast from the capital, Harare. During Form 3 (Grade 11), she fell pregnant by a boy she had madly fallen in love with.
They Say Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice – It Did for Me
It was early Sunday morning when I felt a shooting pain rip through my abdomen. It was June 3, 2018. My day was planned down to the hour. I had done quite a bit of travelling in the weeks prior to this day, so I was glad to finally have the time to catch up on writing stories. It was supposed to be a productive day…
Take a Chance
Every person has some things that hold them back from being their best. It could be money, fear, health, family, job, education, generational curses and the list is endless. When you take a chance to know God and give your all to Him, everything will change for you.
Through It All, God Has Your Back
Christianity is a life of blessings and victory, but that does not mean you will not face any challenges. However, those challenges are not meant to destroy; they are actually bread for you. They are for your promotion.
TWSC Submission: From Successful Professional to a Prison Cell - How My Life Changed in an Instant
I am *Darice, a cum laude graduate in a government school in the Philippines. I took Business Management and finished with flying colors. My family was the proudest on my graduation day. I was applauded when I delivered my speech in front of more than three thousand graduates. I was literally flying at that time. Tears of joy flowed from my eyes, and my parents were crying, too
TWSC Submission: Taking the Leap – How I Left my Corporate Job to Rescue Abused Children and Found my Purpose
My name is SiKelly and I am a mother and mentor. I am the firstborn in a family of four and was born and raised in Chuka, Kenya. I went to Chuka Township Primary School, then to Chogoria Girls High School and pursued Management of Information Technology at Multimedia University.
Your Situation Does Not Define Your Status
The first thing you need to understand is what God says about your status because if you understand your status, then you can change your situation. Your life is not about what you are going through. The revelation of God’s word that you have reveals your status, but that may not change your situation until you put the Word to work.
From a Shy, Reserved Girl to a Digital Marketer and Public Speaker: How Loveness Nleya Transitioned Into Her Passion
Loveness Nleya is at the top of her game and living her dream as a digital marketing consultant, speaker and coach. She comes from a very loving Christian family unit and is the firstborn of three children, two girls and one boy. She narrated her story of stepping out of her comfort zone to pursue her passion to The Weight She Carries.
Don't Sweat the Mishaps
Being a perfectionist has its benefits but it has its pitfalls as well. Wanting things to be perfect may mean you'll miss out on precious moments and opportunities that may never come back around.
Why You Should Never Lament Over What Once Was
Change is never easy. In fact, it has the tendency to dig up an array of emotions that can be crippling. If you are going through some changes right now and don't know how you'll get through it all in one piece, this is for you.
The Hotter it Gets, the Stronger you Become
No two stories are the same no matter how alike they seem. Everyone has their own version, but it is always easier to paint the whole world based on what you are familiar with. Whether you think your pain is worse or lighter, at the end of the day, pain is pain.
Inspiration: Bogolo Joy Kenewendo
Economist and politician Bogolo Joy Kenewendo is at the top of her game. Her latest appointment to the Botswana Cabinet seat by Botswana’s current President Mokgweetsi Masisi as the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry is being celebrated at home and abroad particularly because, at 31, she is the youngest minister ever recorded in Botswana’s history.
15 Fun Facts About Earrings
Did you know that there are many ancient superstitions surrounding earrings? Keep reading to find out more fun facts about earrings.
Surviving in ‘Less Than Ideal’
Every now and then you will find yourself in a situation that is far from ideal. You will be placed in an environment you feel is impossible to survive in – a place you feel was never designed for you. In fact, it will be so far from ideal that all you will want to do is shrivel up and die.
Queen of the Jungle
There is an African proverb that says, “No matter the economy of the jungle, the lion will never eat grass.”I know you’ve probably heard it all before. Things aren’t the same as they used to be in the good old days. Jobs are scarce. Men? They don’t make them like they used to!
My Weight loss Journey: Negative Feedback is Not Your Enemy
There are moments when we unintentionally put ourselves in the spotlight not because we want to, but because we are genuinely trying to better ourselves. Somehow in these moments, your achievement suddenly becomes the center of attention and so does the rest of your life. For the greater part of this journey, I have had more than enough company to help me pull through, but I wa
Defying the Odds: A Woman’s Story of Enormous Grief and Learning How to Speak Again
Following a series of deaths of significant people in her life over a span of seven years, the pain became unbearable and led her down a path that would cause doctors to declare that she would never be able to speak again. But she fought to prove them wrong. And now, she is on a path to becoming an inspirational speaker.
TWSC Submission: Turning to Prostitution Was Not the Answer
The following story was narrated to The Weight She Carries' contributor Ivy Chibanda.
Hate Crimes are Everyone's Problem
Hate crimes have been an unfortunate aspect of communities throughout history and continue to plague us today. A hate crime involves a crime that is threatened or committed against a person because of a certain characteristic (race, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, etc.). The offender is motivated because he or she holds negative attitudes against a certain community of
Fear Tells a Lot of Lies
There are some things in life that are simple. We just complicate them because we’re afraid to explore our capabilities. So many things we proclaim we're unable to deliver are just a result of our limited imagination. We don’t fail because we cannot do something. We fail because we have destined ourselves to fail. This reminds me of my final year in high school. The whole schoo
How Learning to Love Herself Unlocked a World of Opportunity for This Successful Millennial
Owens started off with three classes a week and then progressed to four. Now she has started training instructors and only teaches one day a week in a session called “Mondays with Morgan”.
The Day I Decided to Stop Trying for a Baby
Like most girls, I dreamt of a big wedding and a house full of little feet and laughter. My dream came true, in part, and in 2013, I married my best friend. Since then, my husband and I have struggled to have a baby. The doctor said I had a partially blocked tube and my eggs were weak. After five years of trying conventional and unconventional fertility treatments, I have reach
Dear Future Me...
To date, I’ve lived up to the expectations of the woman I envisioned myself to be almost three decades ago. I certainly had no idea that I would stick to that dream, but I did anyway. What I did was remember the woman I had set out to become. It’s funny how I had it all figured out, from the stages I was going to grace, the style of fashion I would gravitate to, to the kind of
Fighting Limitations
The world has a tendency of placing limitations on us before we have the chance to prove our capabilities. Sadly, we often give in and accept these limitations and sometimes even participate in gender discrimination by placing those same limitations on the next woman. In the end, many women never realize their full potential.
Choosing to See Something Different
Eleven years ago, I was in a car accident while visiting family in Zimbabwe. The back tire burst, sending the vehicle into an uncontrollable meander across the median. Slamming into the ridge beside the road, the vehicle overturned, smashing in the roof and windows before coming to a rest on its side. I was almost 4 months pregnant with my second child.