My name is Zinhle Ndyike, and I’m from the Vaal Triangle, specifically in Meyerton/Highbury-Henley on Klip. I want to take a moment to share my story in the hope that it reaches those who have ever felt overlooked, belittled, or underestimated. I understand how isolating those feelings can be, and I hope my experiences can offer some comfort and inspiration to others who might be facing similar challenges.

As a young girl, I never imagined that one day I would find myself in an LSEN school… an institution dedicated to children with special needs. I began my education in a mainstream school, but struggled in a class of 40 students. My grades slipped, and I found it difficult to concentrate. It was a challenging time, and I felt the weight of judgment from peers who did not understand my needs.

Eventually, I moved to Krugerlaan School, a special school that welcomed me with open arms. Initially, I faced criticism from children who came from mainstream schools, including some I had once sat alongside. However, I made the decision to let go of the negativity and allow God to guide me. In smaller classes of 10 to 15 students, my academic performance improved, and I began to thrive. I felt God’s presence in my life, even when I couldn’t see the full picture.

Over time, I earned six diplomas and certificates and served as a Representative Council of Learners (RCL) member for two years. I later pursued a four-year hairdressing course, earning a certificate that led to a career as a professional hairdresser. Despite being labeled by some as “abnormal” because of my learning special needs, I knew that God had a plan for me.

Today, I stand proudly as Miss Sedibeng’s First Princess, having won an International Award representing South Africa in the beauty queen category. My journey has taught me that criticism and judgment are tests meant to strengthen the warrior within us. To achieve greatness, we must rise above discouragement and surround ourselves with those who uplift and inspire us.

I have shared my experiences through an article about my life, hoping to encourage others who feel undermined. My aim is to be an example of hope and demonstrate that judgment does not define our worth… rather, it is the beginning of a new, empowering chapter in our lives.

My journey hasn’t been without challenges but because of all of my hardships, my story has become a testament to the power of perseverance and belief in oneself. Giving up whenever things get hard is not an option. Hold onto your dreams and focus on positivity. We all face all the challenges, but those challenges can build us into stronger individuals. If I could overcome my obstacles, you can too.

To anyone feeling lost or doubtful, remember that you don’t need validation from others. Seek your strength from within and from God, and you can become a future leader. Don’t let criticism deter you from greatness, let it fuel your growth towards successful testimonies.

You are a survivor, a warrior, a game changer. Together, let’s inspire and uplift those who are suffering from judgment and criticism just because they are different. Together we can become the change we want to see in the world.

By: Zinhle Ndyike

The post From LSEN Schools to Winning International Awards Representing South Africa~ By Zinhle Ndyike appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

As African women, we should share our stories because it gives us a voice in a society that doesn’t want to hear us. Sharing our stories will challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about African women and contribute towards the empowerment and representation of African women in various spheres of life. In addition, sharing our African stories builds connections and understanding of different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, and we can learn from each other.

Evidently, there are several reasons why our voices are not heard. Many African women may not have equal access to education and resources as men, which can limit their ability to participate in social and political discourse. They may also face discrimination and marginalization based on their gender, race, and socio-economic status. Additionally, societal and cultural norms may discourage African women from speaking out and fully expressing themselves. Furthermore, media representations of African women are often stereotypical, which can perpetuate negative misconceptions that further silence their voices. Thus, everyone needs to be more intentional about addressing these issues. We must create a more inclusive and equitable environment for African women to share their stories and experiences. SheEvolves is a platform that intentionally addresses these issues.

There are several ways to ensure that the voices of African women are heard. Here are a few:

• Amplify their voices by sharing their stories and perspectives through various platforms, such as social media, podcasts, and blogs.
• Support their leadership by encouraging and supporting African women to take leadership roles in their communities and various fields.
• Increase access to education by ensuring that African women have access to education and resources that will enable them to participate in social and political discourse.
• Promote gender equality by working to address the systemic gender-based discrimination that African women face and promote gender equality.
• Increase representation by ensuring that African women are represented in all spheres of life, including politics, media, and business.
• Create safe spaces where African women can share their stories, experiences, and perspectives without fear of judgment or discrimination.
• Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about African women and educate others about their lived experiences and contributions.
• Support organizations and initiatives that are working to empower and amplify the voices of African women.

2024 is here, and it brings with it new opportunities and challenges. So, as we welcome this new year, let’s consider the stories of African women. Let’s take into account her experiences, joys, cries, her intelligence and her courage!

Happy New Year from the She Evolves team!

The post This is why we share African Stories appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

In a world where strength is forged,

my tale of resilience is told,

a soul born and raised by a single mom,

Through trials faced, a spirit bold.

From the very first breath, I embraced,

A love that knew no bounds or end,

With every hurdle, my mother’s grace,

Guided me, a beacon, a faithful friend she became.

School’s path was strewn with hardship’s grasp,

Yet I pressed on, determined and strong,

Though fees denied my dreams a clasp,

Knowledge bloomed within, forever lifelong.

High school’s gates I triumphantly crossed,

A testament to my unwavering will,

But dreams of higher education were lost,

Denied by fees, yet hope lingered still.

Amidst life’s twists, fate took its toll,

A precious life grew within my core,

Though left alone, I embraced a role,

A mother’s love, forevermore.

In the depths of solitude, I found,

A strength that dwelled deep within,

With every tear, a resilience unbound,

A love so fierce, a battle to win.

Through sleepless nights and weary days,

I nurtured my child with tender care,

In every smile, a testament, always,

To the love I selflessly shared.

So let this poem be a mirror’s reflection,

Of a warrior spirit, fierce and true,

A testament to my unwavering affection,

A testament to the strength within me.

For I, dear soul, am a beacon of light,

A testament to the power of a single mom,

my journey’s hardships may have been a fight,

But my love and strength shall forever calm.

so to me, dear one,

Know that you are cherished, never alone,

In your story, inspiration shall forever reside,

For you have shown the world love’s truest tone,

And in your presence, hope shall always abide.

Written by ©Julliethepoet

@keishy julia ichagua –  facebook

The post This is my Story – Poem by Julia appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

I endured a tumultuous childhood, marked by the traumatic divorce of my parents when I was in Grade 2. The ordeal was exacerbated by my exposure to gender-based violence at a young age. I faced the agonizing choice of selecting between my mother and father at Justice for Children Trust, resulting in a split custody arrangement that disrupted my schooling.

The divorce had a lasting impact on my life, as it entailed frequent relocation and attending five different primary schools. However, instead of succumbing to the challenges and playing the victim, I chose to rise above my situation and become the voice of reason. It was during these difficult times that I discovered my calling, my passion, and my purpose – to advocate for women’s empowerment and fight against gender-based violence.

As a young girl, I actively participated in various organizations and clubs that focused on empowering girls and supporting vulnerable women. I was part of the Girls Action Clubs during primary school and served under the Girl Child Network from Form 1 to Form 6 in high school. Additionally, I contributed to the Youth Alive Club and Soroptimist, which further ignited my passion for making a difference in the lives of women.

However, after completing high school, I realized that there were no clubs or organizations that provided the skills and experiences I desired. Undeterred by this setback, I took matters into my own hands and founded my own organization – The Tanyaradzwa Initiative. This initiative was my God-given vision, and I felt compelled to create a platform that would fill the void I had experienced in my own journey towards empowerment.

Starting my own organization was not without its challenges. I had to overcome the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding feminism, as it was a subject that made many people uncomfortable. I learned the importance of patience and effective communication, as I had to explain what feminism truly meant and what its purpose was. Additionally, I faced financial hurdles, as impactful work required adequate resources. Despite these obstacles, I persevered and eventually started receiving sponsorship from women-led organizations. I am now committed to the tireless task of fundraising to ensure the sustainability of my organization.

I draw inspiration from various sources in my pursuit of empowering women. My family plays a significant role in my life, and as the firstborn, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to set a positive example for my siblings and make my parents proud. Their unwavering support and encouragement keep me motivated to push forward and continue learning.

Another primary source of inspiration for me is the remarkable Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The internationally acclaimed author and feminist icon’s powerfully told stories and thought-provoking ideas have broadened my perspectives and fueled my passion to create a meaningful impact in the world.

For me, the most rewarding aspect of my work as a feminist is the opportunity to inspire and uplift women. I firmly believe that when women are empowered, societies prosper. Whether through my organization or daily interactions, I am committed to paving the way for women to thrive and succeed. Witnessing other women achieve their goals and break barriers fills me with immense joy and fulfillment, making me honored to be part of a movement striving for a more equitable world.

Embarking on my journey as a feminist was fraught with challenges. I had to dismantle stereotypes and counter negative assumptions associated with feminism. I encountered misconceptions that feminists despised men and were solely focused on women’s empowerment to the exclusion of everything else. In reality, my goal as a feminist is not to promote hate or division, but to advocate for equality and inclusivity for all genders. Overcoming these misconceptions and promoting a more nuanced understanding of feminism has been a challenging aspect of my journey. When asked about advice for other women contemplating starting their own work or business, I emphasize the importance of self-belief and confidence. I encourage women to trust in their skills, knowledge, and experiences, as they possess everything necessary to succeed. Surrounding oneself with a supportive network of mentors and like-minded individuals is also key, as they can provide guidance and encouragement throughout the journey.

I advise women to embrace risks and challenges, as they lead to personal growth and the realization of true potential. Starting a business may be daunting, but facing obstacles head-on is the path to self-discovery. Lastly, I emphasize the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Prioritizing well-being enables women to show up as their best selves and make a greater impact in their work or business endeavors.

In conclusion, my story is one of resilience, passion, and empowerment. From a young girl witnessing the painful effects of divorce and gender-based violence to becoming a fierce advocate for women’s rights, I exemplify the power of turning adversity into triumph. Through The Tanyaradzwa Initiative, I strive to create a society where women can thrive, break barriers, and transform lives. My journey reminds us that every individual has the power to make a difference, and we must stand up and speak out for what we believe in, no matter the challenges we face.

The post Tanyaradzwa’s Journey from Adversity to Advocacy appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Today is a turning point in my life. The boxes from the University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town are in front of me. Each one holds the key to a future I’ve imagined. As a girl in her last year of high school, this choice is both exciting and scary.

Choosing between Pretoria and Cape Town feels like choosing between the known and the unknown. The University of Pretoria reminds me of home, my hometown, and the people I’ve known for years. It’s a place where I could fall right into the flow of my everyday life. Is that really what I want? Would I pick it because it’s safe and what most people do?

The University of Cape Town is also a big draw. I get excited when I think about starting over in a new place, surrounded by people I don’t know and beautiful scenery I’ve never seen before. It’s a chance to figure out who I am and what I can do when I leave my safe zone. But moving into the unknown means leaving behind the safety net I’ve always known.

When I think about my hopes and fears, I remember the wisdom my family, friends, and teachers have given me. They’ve told me to follow my heart and think about where I’ll do best in school and in life. But as the hours go by and the sun starts to go down, I understand that there might not be a clear answer. Both choices give you chances to learn and grow, but in different ways.

I don’t like the idea of making the “wrong” choice, but I also know that life is a series of choices, and each one has its own results. Instead of worrying about making a mistake, I should think about the chances of success and happiness that lie ahead, no matter what road I choose.

When the stars start to shine in the night sky, I feel calm. Whether I choose to stay with what I know or try something new, I am taking a step toward my future. Even if the way I take isn’t sure, what’s most important is the trip itself. I know that no matter what decision I make, I’ll give it my all and use it as a chance to learn, grow, and build a life that fits my dreams.

I take a deep breath and pick up one of the boxes, ready to see what happens next in my story. As I do this, I feel a mix of joy, drive, and just a little bit of nerves. It’s a decision that will affect what I do, who I meet, and who I become. And as I take this leap of faith, I’m told that there’s no such thing as a wrong choice, only the journey that comes from it.

The post Final Year of High School and Choosing Between 2 Universities appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Formula One (F1) is a sport that has captured the attention and excitement of millions of people around the world. From the high-speed races to the technical innovation, F1 offers a unique and thrilling viewing experience that appeals to a wide range of people.

One of the primary reasons why I enjoy watching F1 is the thrill of the races. The high-speed cars, beautiful tracks, and intense competition creates an exciting and captivating experience that really has me at the edge of my seat. I also love watching F1 because of all the technical innovation. F1 is known for being a technical sport, with cars that are incredibly advanced and designed to maximize performance. Every detail of their design is carefully thought out, making F1 a fascinating sport. I find F1 really educational and inspiring as I get to learn about the latest technological advancements in the automotive industry. Strategy is also an integral part of F1. Teams must make strategic decisions throughout the race, such as when to pit, which tires to use, and when to push the car to its limits. This strategy can have a significant impact on the race outcome. F1’s international appeal is another reason why I love watching it. Races take place all over the world, and I get to have a glimpse into different cultures and countries.

The dramatic moments in F1 has to be my favourite part F1. From high-speed crashes to last-minute overtaking maneuvers, these moments are breathtaking to watch and keep me engaged and captivated. I also really enjoy the fact that I have a favourite driver, Lewis Hamilton, and following his story has also become such a compelling reason to watch F1.

I am a formula one girly and I love it!

Do you also watch formula one?

The post I am a Formula One Girly appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Every time I hear that my friends would rather go visit Europe for vacation I tell them to first consider African cities because there are so many amazing cities in Africa to visit. Each of these cities have their own unique culture, history, and attractions. Here are ten of the best African cities to travel to, in no particular order:

1. Marrakech, Morocco – Known for its vibrant souks, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Marrakech is a must-visit destination for any traveler to North Africa.
2. Cape Town, South Africa – Situated at the southern tip of the continent, Cape Town offers stunning views of Table Mountain and the surrounding coastline, as well as a rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine.
3. Cairo, Egypt – Home to the ancient Pyramids of Giza and the world-famous Egyptian Museum, Cairo is a must-visit for any traveler interested in ancient history and architecture.
4. Nairobi, Kenya – The bustling capital of Kenya is a hub of culture, art, and wildlife, with easy access to the nearby Masai Mara National Reserve.
5. Accra, Ghana – A vibrant and cosmopolitan city, Accra is known for its music, fashion, and art scenes, as well as its beautiful beaches and historical landmarks.
6. Tunis, Tunisia – With its charming medina, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, Tunis is a wonderful destination for any traveler interested in exploring the best of North Africa.
7. Lagos, Nigeria – The largest city in Africa by population, Lagos is a hub of business, culture, and music, with a thriving arts scene and delicious street food.
8. Zanzibar City, Tanzania – Located on the picturesque island of Zanzibar, Zanzibar City is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
9. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – A city steeped in history and culture, Addis Ababa is a wonderful destination for any traveler interested in exploring the best of Ethiopia, including its delicious cuisine and vibrant music scene.
10. Dakar, Senegal – A bustling city on the west coast of Africa, Dakar is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and beautiful beaches, as well as its rich history and culture.

The post I would rather travel to African Cities appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

As I began to assimilate and became part of my community, through discussions and constant deliberations with the chiefs, the locals, the academics/learned/intellectuals, as well as those in the diaspora, I quickly realized that my quest for development in my community would never be a one-person game. I became aware that there is a short circuit in the flow of engagement amongst community members. People in my community generally associate themselves according to political affiliations, family ties, social status, villages, etc. Therefore, I decided to create a platform (Tukombo Today) that will act as a bridge to bring them together to have a consensus in building our community. The idea was “well” received, but the challenge was skepticism, distrust, and political and family differences. The platform had (still has) a snail’s pace on the flow of information. Yes, meaningful ideas were being shared. Also, concerns were being expressed, albeit treading on eggs. But however great the ideas were, they lacked a unified force to actualize them. In my view -this was a platform (a boardroom, as I call it) to bridge the engagement block. But still, people could not engage freely and unbiasedly with one common goal due to trivial matters that have crippled development. I have realized it is not unique to my village but to Africa as a whole.

Another huge challenge was that however great the developmental ideas were, the struggle was that most members were based in different cities, towns, and countries. Therefore, they needed more feasibility on the ground, physically ensuring that some of the ideas were shared with the relevant stakeholders in the village. The challenge was decoding these ideas into a layman’s language that the general public and chiefs would understand. I realized that our priorities were different, and our vision in terms of development ran on parallel lines; therefore, merging the two was a dream that “might” never be a reality, the demise of my community and Africa. My mind and heart would be overwhelmed as I saw my vision for a better Tukombo becoming a burden instead of a blessing. A unified force will never work under such conditions. The ideas got suffocated before they could see any daylight. My community has so many opportunities for greatness, considering its location close to the lake, excellent weather, fantastic scenery, unique natural vegetation, a heritage site that has ancient carvings, naturally warm water springs, and is home to some of the most prominent political leaders Like Aleke Banda and his wife, Mbumba Margaret Banda. Recently gold was discovered in my village. All of these opportunities lie dormant because people fail to come together to “agree to disagree’’ to ensure that they maximize the available resources to build a better community. The other challenge is ”the bwana mentality,” the scramble for positions in any community committee, especially by the locals to gain respect and access to resources. Celebrity status is especially used by those with resources to manipulate the locals to partner with them, manipulating them to their advantage. If a person comes with noble ideas and does not belong to either of the groups, there would be little or no local support. The person becomes a threat to those scrambling for positions or a threat to the community celebrities. Any noble efforts face many red tapes, and secret agents or monitoring personnel are deployed to spy and report to their ‘’master’’. Therefore, instead of making friends, a Pandora’s box of enemies is opened. It makes it difficult to trust anyone with any information on development for fear of ideas being stolen by people with the speed of light to ensure they remain celebrated (bwana mentality) – the battle for village/community celebrity. I have been debating whether to continue with the mission of working together through shared ideas or go solo since I have individually made minor impacts through financial help from just a few friends, but an impact nonetheless.

I have realized that development is not only in terms of infrastructure but a changed life and mindset. Therefore, I plan to implement progressive developmental change through whatever efforts I can manage and any assistance I receive. I have started a youth leadership program, a girl empowerment program, as the youths are the soul and future of the community. Hopefully, I will live to see my dreams of a better Tukombo.

Being an activist for community development comes with many burdens; however, it can never quench the desire to see a better life for my community and country because it is the place I call home.

Story by:

Cathrine Banda, from Mzuzu Malawi. She is a Community Activist, Motivational Speaker, Writer, Poet, Former Radio Presenter The 1873 FM, Johannesburg South Africa

cathrinetwabi@gmail.com

The post Diary of a village girl: Tukombo – Parrarel Mindsets appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Magwinya, also known as vetkoek, has a long history in South Africa and is a popular dish among many South Africans. Over time, magwinya became a staple food for many people in South Africa, particularly those in townships and rural areas. It was a cheap and easy food to make, and could be filled with various fillings, making it a versatile meal. Today, magwinya can be found in many roadside stalls sold by the most amazing ladies, doing the best they can to gain traction to their small business.

Magwinyas are so tasty because of its crispy, golden exterior and soft, fluffy interior. The dough is made with flour, yeast, sugar, and salt, which is then fried in hot oil until it is cooked through and crispy on the outside. The dough is also versatile, allowing for a variety of fillings, from savoury options such as curried mince or cheese and bacon, to sweet fillings like jam or chocolate spread. The combination of the crispy exterior, soft and fluffy interior, and flavourful fillings make magwinya a delicious and satisfying meal or snack for many South Africans.

Here’s a simple recipe to make it:

Ingredients:

• 500g all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (10g) instant dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Slowly add the lukewarm water and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Leave it to rise for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it lightly. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a tennis ball.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot. Once the oil is hot, gently place the dough balls into the oil and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove the magwinya from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.
7. Serve the magwinya hot, filled with your favorited filling, such as minced meat, cheese, or jam.

Enjoy your homemade South African Magwinya!!

The post Let’s take a moment to drool over Magwinyas appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Easter holidays can be triggering for some people due to a variety of reasons. Easter is a religious holiday that holds significant meaning for many Christians, and for some people who have experienced religious trauma or abuse, the holiday may trigger feelings of anxiety, fear, or even PTSD-like symptoms.

Holidays often involve spending time with family members, which can be triggering for those who have experienced trauma within their families. Family gatherings may bring up painful memories or feelings of isolation, particularly if the person’s family is not supportive or accepting of them.

Easter is often associated with indulging in special treats and feasting with family and friends. For people struggling with food or body image issues, the focus on food and eating can be triggering and lead to negative feelings or behaviors.

Easter falls in the springtime in many parts of the world, which can bring about seasonal changes such as increased daylight, warmer weather, and blooming flowers. While many people enjoy the transition to spring, others may experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or feel overwhelmed by the changes.

Holidays often involve spending money on gifts or travel, which can be stressful for people who are struggling financially. This financial stress can lead to feelings of anxiety, shame, or inadequacy.

It’s important to remember that everyone experiences triggers differently, and what may be triggering for one person may not be triggering for another. If you are experiencing triggers during Easter or any other holiday, it’s important to take care of yourself and seek support from loved ones or a mental health professional.

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