Founder, Editor-in-Chief
Vimbai E. Musvosvi
311 stories
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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?
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.
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!!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
#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.
#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.
#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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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).
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!!!
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
Born to Fly: Captain Kgomotso Phatsima
Kgomotso Phatsima was born and raised in a small village of Ledumadumane and grew up looking after cattle and going to school barefoot. Her village which was later destroyed to accommodate airport expansion.
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.
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.
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.
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.
#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.
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.
#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.
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.
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.
#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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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…
Beauty for Ashes: How Claiming God’s Promises Helped Faith Gor Begin Healing from Sexual Trauma
She was just five years old when her innocence was snatched away one afternoon at the hands of three older boys. By the time she was 12, she had been sexually assaulted twice more – by a stranger and then a spiritual mentor. The trauma took on a life of its own and she became captive to her pain. Then one day, a speaker at a youth conference introduced her to a promise in the B
How This Single Mother Found the Strength to Rise Above Heartbreak and Start Over
Her path to motherhood was intentional and well calculated. She was in love and starting a new life with the man she believed would be her forever. But forever had other plans. What wasn’t part of the equation was abandonment, a series of heartbreaks and severe abuse.
In-depth Story – Reema Sukumaran: Surviving a Tumultuous Childhood and Being Abused by a Pastor
She wanted more than anything to be daddy’s little girl. But the outgoing father who seemed so loving towards other people, was a different man at home. He had a volatile temper and was extremely violent towards her and her brothers. Over the years, she witnessed her mother endure her father’s wrath as the family grew increasingly terrified of him. Surely life would get better
My Prayer for You This Year - Reaching Heights Unknown
Happy New Year to all our readers! We took a break over the holiday season to regroup and plan for an even greater year of inspiring content for you, and we are excited about our vision for 2020.
Mental Health Activist Simone Walsh Shares Her Story on Surviving Workplace Bullying and Severe Depression
With tears streaming down her face she approached the busy intersection. In that moment, sitting behind the wheel, she wanted nothing more than to end it all. It was the culmination of years of being bullied at the least likely of places – her job. She had taken every measure she could think of to stop the abuse, but to no avail, it seemed. This was her chance to end the pain.
SMSKE to Host September Forum to Empower Single Mothers
Single Mum Support Kenya (SMSKE) will be hosting its first forum this Saturday. The event, which aims to empower single mothers and connect them to a network of support, will feature dynamic speakers with powerful points to share with attendees.
TWSC Podcast: S1 Ep.8 - Interview with HIV/AIDS Activist Asha Molock
At 50, Asha Molock was enjoying a successful career as an educator in the School District of Philadelphia and had found love again. Life was flowing the way it should until a medical diagnosis shook her to her core. She was HIV-positive.
TWSC Podcast: S1 Ep.7: Interview w/ Positive Body Advocate Awande Mabaso
Several years ago, successful pastry chef and chocolatier Awande Mabaso embarked on a mission to love every inch of her body. It was long overdue, and following years of yo-yo dieting, depression and an eating disorder, she finally sought help and began rewriting her story.
TWSC Podcast: S1 Ep. 6 - Interview with Singer/Songwriter Crystal Asige
Crystal Asige began losing her eyesight as a teenager. She had been drawn to the arts as a child, and her dream was to be a musician and film producer. But it became difficult to read the blackboard in class. Then, the words on the pages of her books began to get fuzzy. Her vision progressively got worse, and one day, she received a diagnosis that would change her life forever:
Founders of Twin Connect Solutions Serve Up Double the Flavour in Tasty Treats and Empowerment
Twins Tafadzwa and Tatenda Rungisa, who are celebrating their 27th birthday today, are climbing the ladder of success one treat at a time and building a name for themselves as multi-talented businesswomen.
TWSC Podcast: S1 Ep.5 - Interview w/ Kimberly Coleman
More than twenty years after walking away from a successful modeling career, Kimberly Coleman is back on the scene with a powerful story of survival. She lived through various forms of abuse as a child and dealt with rejection as a adult. She was diagnosed with Stage 2 Rectal Cancer in July, 2015, and underwent treatment for close to a year. During the course of treatment, Kimb
Fighting till the End: How this News Anchor Cared for Her Special Needs Child as a Single Mother
Since 2014, she has been presenting the news in one of the vernacular languages of Kenya, Kikamba. Being a news anchor has been her dream since completing her education. It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get here. And along the way, she lost the most precious gift of all: her child.
Unveil Partners up With Days For Girls to Supply Reusable Pads to Girls at Bondeni Primary School
On July 5th, Days for Girls ambassadors Christine Khatima and Alice Wambui Mwangi conducted a training and provided reusable pads for 50 girls at Bondeni Primary School.
In-depth Story: From Heroin, Cocaine, Meth Addiction to a Fulfilled Life – The Nandi Kegode Story
At the age of 16, her life changed drastically when the lifestyle she had become accustomed to quickly faded away. She was confused and angry because now, instead of flying to university in her father’s airplane, she was headed to the U.S. to join the military.
Community “Elder Sister” Discusses Opening Her Home to the Community
Lorna Wanyama has been a pillar in her community for over 20 years. What started out a preparing a simple meal for orphaned children in her community turned into a large extended family she always wanted.
TWSC Interview with Peperusha Binti Founder Sharon Jesscah
During the Shero Runway Empowerment Conference that took place on June 28th, we took a moment for a sit-down interview with Sharon Jesscah Awuor, founder of Peperusha Binti - and organization that donates sanitary towels to girls in rural parts of Kenya who would otherwise miss school due to menstruation.
How I Learned to Embrace My Changing Skin
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.
How HIV/AIDS Activist Asha Molock Found Freedom in Disclosing Her HIV Status
At 50, Asha Molock was enjoying a successful career as an educator in the School District of Philadelphia and had found love again. Life was flowing the way it should until a medical diagnosis shook her to her core. She was HIV-positive.
Finding Purpose After Becoming a Widow
Consolate Muga’s life changed drastically when she became a widow at the age of 38. She had relied on her husband to provide for her and their two teenage children over the years, and now she felt lost and alone.
Starting Over: How This Woman Revived Her Childhood Dream After a Failed Marriage
When Annie Liz separated from her ex-husband of ten years, life became very difficult for her. She had three children and no income.
My Experience Working in a Male-Dominated Industry
Jane Njeri is a peer educator and raises awareness of HIV/AIDS. She goes to various schools and educates students about safe sex and abstinence.
In-depth Story: Learning to Heal After Years of Abuse by my Stepfather
Jasmine Frazier had an enjoyable childhood. Her mother, a single mother of four, made sure holidays were special and created family traditions Frazier remembers fondly.
Dr. Natasha Williams Opens up About Painful Divorce & Masterclass ‘Reclaiming your Superwoman’
he was well-established in her career as a clinical psychologist, had a thriving private practice and a lovely home. While things were going well for her professionally, she was fighting a private battle at home. One that led to a heartbreaking revelation in 2017.
Homeless at 13: The Drive Behind This Woman’s Desire to Help Young Girls Living on the Street
Christine Khatima is an ambassador for Days for Girls Nairobi, Kenya. In her role as team leader, she conducts training sessions and travels across the region to educate and assess the need for sanitary pads for girls and young women. Then, she makes the pads using her own materials to meet the need.
Singer/Songwriter Crystal Asige's Story: Losing My Vision
She was drawn to the arts as a child, and her dream was to be a musician and film producer. But in her teenage years, it became difficult to read the blackboard in class. Then, the words on the pages of her books began to get fuzzy. Her vision progressively got worse, and one day, she received a diagnosis that would change her life forever.
In-depth Story: Addiction Expert Caroline Kagia Shares Her Candid Story of Overcoming Alcoholism
When a schoolmate approached her wanting to be her friend, Caroline couldn’t believe her good fortune. She was cool, pretty and popular – everything Caroline felt she wasn’t. Little did Caroline know that this encounter would lead her down a path to addiction that would take her nearly 18 years to recover from.
Woman who Contracted HIV as a Child Bride Now Spreads Hope to Others
Rebecca Auma spends her days mentoring girls and young mothers living with HIV in Migori County, Kenya. She knows all too well the devastation that comes along with such a diagnosis. Even more heartbreaking is how the young women she mentors contracted the virus – child marriage.
A Father’s Sacrifice Inspires Daughter to Fight Fearlessly to End FGM
Christine Alfons has been a fierce activist against gender-based violence and female genital mutilation (FGM) for the past seven years. She is so passionate about these issues she founded an organization called the Safe Engage Foundation, which aims to engage youth in child protection issues and ending FGM.
From Domestic Violence Victim to Mrs Universe Kenya 2018 Contestant and County Winner
Over the last year-and-a-half, Angela Mutie has been rebuilding the pieces of her life after surviving a painful marriage filled with physical, financial and emotional abuse. It has been a difficult and emotional journey, but she is reclaiming her life and is now at the forefront of the movement against gender-based violence in her community.
In-depth Story: Surviving a Life Filled with Tragedy
It is impossible to wrap one’s mind around the horrors Celine Njoki has experienced throughout her life. Though her life has been filled with valley experiences and abuse, she has found the strength and courage to keep pushing forward. For her, pain began very early on.
FGM Survivor and Founder of Murua Girls Shares How She Found the Courage to Tell Her Story and Help Others
Three years ago, Seleyian Agnes decided she could no longer be silent while girls as young as 8 were being mutilated in the Masai community she grew up in rural Kenya. It was time to share her story of surviving of female genital mutilation (FGM) and educate her community.
In-depth Story: Woman Forced into Marriage at 16 Now Helps Rescue Others
Thirty-year-old Josephine Miduma has made it her life’s mission to rescue girls who have been forced into child marriages and flee due to abuse or mistreatment. While her training as a social worker gives her enormous insight into societal ill and remedies, her own story has allowed her to be even more effective because she can relate to the girls she saves. At just 16, she was
Which is Which?
Sometimes the greatest lessons come from the gravest mistakes. The longer you live the more you realize that not everyone or everything that presents itself before you means you well.
Author & Entrepreneur Christine Mapondera-Talley Discusses ‘Makanaka’s World’ Entrepreneurship
ial entrepreneur Christine Mapondera-Talley has yet to meet a challenge she backed down from. From venture to venture, her creativity has guided her and catapulted her into a dimension where dreams become reality. If she couldn’t find the tools she needed along the way, she created them.
Closed Doors
One of the toughest things to experience is rejection. It is painful and humiliating, but there is a blessing in it. Whatever rejects you only leads you to your destiny.
Founder of ‘Butterfly Girls Project’ Shares Her story of Being Drugged and Raped
Gladwell Wachira was 15 years old when she left her family to live with her uncle and his children. She had just started high school and her parents thought it best since her uncle, who was divorced, lived closer to Wachira’s school.
The Reality of Pursuing Your Dream
We often have this idea that pursuing a dream takes hard work and consistency, but don't realize that it is a strenuous and painful process that pushes you to the brink of quitting many times. This is the part no one tells you about.
Woman With No Limbs Shares Journey to Self-Love
Self-Development Life Coach and Speaker Sinikiwe Kademaunga is a confident woman who is passionate about impacting people’s lives through empowerment, motivation and mentoring.
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.
Founder of Save Girl Child Empowerment Opens Up About Being Publicly Shamed For Not Undergoing FGM
“Lucy, you are abnormal between your legs,” are the words of a man that stung and reminded Lucy Weisiko of the shaming she experienced as a girl for not undergoing “the cut.”
In-depth Story: How This Successful Pastry Chef Learned to Love Herself While Battling Severe Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Mild Clinical Depression
“I am BRAVE. I am STRONG. I am WORTHY” are the three affirmations South African beauty Awande Mabaso pronounces each morning when she looks in the mirror.
In-depth Story: Brigitte Sossou Perenyi Discusses Captivity and Rescue from Religious Shrine
She was just seven years old when she was taken away from her family and left at a religious shrine dedicated to worshiping deities. This was the sacrifice needed to please the gods and atone for her uncle’s infidelity. She worked from dawn to dusk and lived a difficult life away from her family. Fortunately, she was rescued and now shares her story of hope and survival.
In-depth Story: Kimberly Coleman’s Inspiring Story of Surviving Sexual Abuse as a Child and Colon Cancer
Twenty years after walking away from a successful modeling career, Kimberly Coleman is back on the scene with a powerful story of survival.
TWSC Woman to Watch: Olive Nwaigbo – How this Fatherless Daughter Found Her Voice and is Inspiring Others to do the Same
Nineteen-year-old Olive Nwaigbo is not the average teenager. The young biochemistry student at the University of Science and Technology in Nigeria, is on a mission to inspire young women to value themselves, believe in themselves, and to own and be in control of their sexuality.
In-depth Story: Founder of SMSKE Uses Experience as a Single Mother to Inspire and Support Other Women
Two years ago, Shiko Kamiri found herself in a situation she had never envisioned for herself. Her 11-year marriage came to an end and she was left to raise her two children on her own.
In-depth Story: Precious Miriam’s Story of Pain, Resilience and Faith
Twenty-seven-year-old Precious Miriam was born into a blended family in Cameroon. Although she had five siblings, she was the only child from her mother and father’s union. She was 9 years old when her father died.
Founder of Waiting Wombs Trust Shares Personal Experience with Infertility
Eleven years ago, she married her husband and didn’t expect to have any trouble 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. After years of physical and emotional pain, she decided to use her pain to help others.
In-depth Story: Cola Bennett Shares Inspiring Story of Surviving Multiple Rapes and Losing Her Son
In the midst of insurmountable pain, a ray of sunshine appeared. His name was Kayshaun. Finally, she had a reason to live. If no one else on earth loved her, he did. Life was now bearable because he made sense when life didn’t. Until his birth, love had been a convoluted concept to her, and efforts to find said love had left her a victim of rape four times over.
Fitness and Wellness Coach Discusses Keys to Positive Body Image and Why Size Isn’t a Factor
Body image is something many women struggle with in a world where “beauty” – defined by mainstream media – is unattainable for many.
Testing the Unknown
Two liquids. Both clear, colourless and odourless. One is vital to the health of human tissue; the other corrodes human tissue. One is water, the other, hydrochloric acid.
In-depth Story: How Francisca Awah Mbuli Escaped Modern Slavery and is Helping Other Women do the Same
When Francisca Awah Mbuli returned to her native of Cameroon from graduate school in Norway six years ago, she had a difficult time finding work. Several years went by, and in 2015, she was approached by someone in her community whom she had grown up with. The man told Francisca about an opportunity to teach English in Kuwait and encouraged her to take the job because she is we
In-depth Story: Human Trafficking Victim Advocate Jomel A. Sheds Light on Trafficking Epidemic, Prevention and Myths About the Crime
For six-and-a-half years, Jomel A. worked in the Office of the State Attorney in South Florida advocating for victims of domestic violence and other offenses, and loved what she did.
Potholes and Uneven Roads
Several years ago, I went on a long road trip to Lincoln, Nebraska to attend my sister’s graduation. It was a 16-hour drive with two toddles to keep me company. All sorts of fun things happened along the way including the car breaking down, but hey, such moments make great stories!
In-depth Story: Restaurateur Zweli Moyo Williams Opens up About Surviving Hunger, Civil War and Abuse
Her days were spent longing for something to eat. On some days, a sip of water was a luxury. A civil war had gripped her native of Zimbabwe and separated her from her mother at the tender age of two. For five years, she was abused repeatedly in every way imaginable. But deep within her was a spirit of resilience so strong nothing could extinguish it.
Motivational Speaker and Mental Health Advocate Survives Domestic Violence, Flees Kenya to Start Over
Mary with friend and mentor Raphael Obonyo, policy specialist and youth advocate In 2017, Mary Wanjiku Gichuhi was completing her PhD at the University of Nairobi, was a well-known mental health advocate, and founder of Depression and Stress Society, an organization that was actively creating awareness on mental health. She worked with youth at different universities, leaders f
In-depth Story – Fighting Lupus: Olivia Clarke's Battle to Save the Life of Her Unborn Child
After months of not knowing what was happening to her body, she got onto a plane and flew thousands of miles, hoping to finally get a diagnosis. What had started out as some skin discolouration had turned into painful and burning skin that left scars all over her body. Over the months, the pain had seeped through to her joints and affected her ability to walk some days. This wa
The Beauty of a Scar
Eight years ago I was in a car accident. When I was pulled out of the mangled vehicle, I didn’t realize I had an open cut until I saw blood running down my leg. It’s funny how something doesn’t hurt as bad until you see blood and an open wound. Then all of a sudden, the pain is unbearable. I remember arriving at the hospital and hearing the doctor telling me that I needed stitc
Erica Elita Edwards Dishes on New Talk Show, Overcoming Challenges and Living with Sarcoidosis
In 2016, Erica Edwards packed up all her belongings and embarked on the 5-hour drive to Toronto, Canada, with two of her children.
Dear Leah
You weren’t the one he wanted, and everyone knew it. In fact, you were constantly haunted by the fact that the only reason he married you is because he was tricked into it.
The Gift of a Struggle
There seems to be a resounding theme in nature – many elements goes through some struggle during the growth process. A tender shoot must push its way through the earth in order to grow into a tree. Carbon must endure extremely high temperatures and immense pressure before it can transform into a diamond. People are no different.
Dear Intuition, I Believe You
For the longest time I believed the best decisions in life were based on experience, facts, reasoning and sound advice…everything but you.
HR Expert Dishes on How to 'Employ Your Gift' and Operate in Your Purpose
Having hired and trained over 800 people over the course of her career, she knows exactly what it takes to successfully connect people with opportunities and equip them with the tools they need to excel professionally. But she does more than simply foster successful employment; she helps people walk into their purpose. Vonciel M. English, founder and owner of Perfect English De
Learning to Appreciate Detours
Anytime a road is in need of repair or is otherwise deemed unfit for use, a detour sign is used to redirect traffic. The cause for a detour isn’t always apparent. Sometimes a road is closed due to construction. Other times the reason is an accident or natural disaster. Whether the cause is known or not, having to diverge from your preferred route when you least expect it is fru
In-depth story: Chandi Rae Bozeman – How This Two-time Survivor Found Freedom in Turning Her Pain into Purpose, and Can Help You Do the Same
She was 14 and returning to her home country after living abroad for years. Life in Germany as an Army Brat had been filled with adventure as she mingled with people from diverse cultures. Moving every few years was normal for her family. But her normal was interrupted when she returned to her home city. Nothing could have prepared her for what would take place over the course
In-depth Story: Tonier Cain – How Treating Her Trauma Ended a 19-year Addiction and Transformed Her Life
Fourteen years ago, she lay on the cold floor of a prison cell at the end of her rope. Her surroundings were familiar to her because for 19 years, home had either been underneath a bridge or in a prison cell. In fact, this marked the 83rd time she had been arrested. Her situation was so grave she would never live a normal life, they said, not after nearly 20 years of addiction.
Made in Africa: How This Woman is Taking Pride in Her Heritage and Celebrating African Artistry
When she decided to pursue her dream of starting a business, she knew exactly what she wanted to do. She wanted to honour her heritage and tap into a market teeming with natural resources and raw talent – Africa. But she needed to figure out how to connect the dots. For the past six months, she has done just that and has a successful line of African products that celebrate her
Born with a Fight: How This Remarkable Woman Refused to Allow Her Disability to Get the Best of Her
Born three months early 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. She has surpassed all the expectations placed upon her. Having achieved academic and professional success, she is now using her experience and expertise to encourage and empower other people livi
Between the Sixth and Seventh Dip
So here I am, standing on the banks and staring down into "My Jordan."
Chamicka Pollock Discusses Keys to Professional and Financial Success
Nearly 20 years ago, she walked into a local Wells Fargo branch for an interview, dressed in one of her mother’s suits, and hoping to be hired as a personal banker. This was a big deal for a teenager, especially one who had been judged and discounted. But she believed in herself. Now, 19 years later, she is the bank’s Vice President – Regional Bank District Manager for Orange C
Knocking on the Wrong Door
The door cracks opens... You’re surprised. You have knocked on so many doors you’ve lost count. You became used to doors that never opened, even though you knew there was always something on the other side. Sometimes, you'd heard promising footsteps on the inside of the door, or you'd heard voices quieten down as the sound of your knock interrupted the flow of conversation. “Th
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.
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”.
Wounds Aren’t Meant to Bleed Forever
Whenever a sharp object cuts through the skin and punctures a vein or artery, blood oozes out. 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 minimal. If a major blood vessel is cut, the bleeding will be substantial.
Turning Away From Conventional Sanitary Napkins Changed This Woman’s Life
After years of enduring a heavy and intense menstrual cycle, toxic shock syndrome and endometriosis, she decided to take a closer look at the sanitary products she was using and discovered that the chemicals used in those products were wreaking havoc on her body. Janelda Cowan started her menstrual cycle shortly after she turned 10. From its onset, her period took over her life
How This Young Woman Living With Sickle Cell Disease Is Helping Countless Others
Not only has she dealt with debilitating pain all her life, she has lost numerous friends along the way. Now, she’s using her voice to speak up for many who are still trying to find their own voice. Her pain is unbearable on most days, but she is determined to continue touching the lives of those living with sickle cell disease. Jesscah Sharon Odhiambo was diagnosed with sickle
How to Support a Loved One Battling Depression from Someone Who Has Lived Through it
Following a series of traumatic events, she struggled to understand what was going on with her. Sure, she had experienced low moments in the past, but this time was different. This time she couldn’t shake the feeling of despair. And each day she plunged further and further into a hole so dark and deep she couldn’t find her way out.
“No” Isn’t a Dirty Word
Today I was reminded of an important lesson I learnt a few years ago when my kids were younger. I probably shouldn’t say learnt because I’m still learning to apply this lesson accordingly, which makes me concerned about my ability to learn… Anyway, the lesson was on learning to say “no”. When my kids were toddlers they had no trouble expressing their disapproval. I was often am
In-depth Story: Cindel Hollancid – Going for the Crown
Every time she saw a modelling ad in the paper or on a billboard, her heart skipped a beat. The excitement, however, was always short-lived. After years of disappointment, an opportunity with her name written all over it fell into her lap one Saturday evening. This was more than just a pageant…it was an invitation to begin peeling away layers of insecurities that had left her b
Everything Is Just The Way It Should Be
Dressed in well-worn denim overalls and a white T-shirt, the carpenter walked into the shed and inspected the work of his hands. Scattered around in the old dusty shed were various pieces of furniture derived from different kinds of wood. Unlike the majority who were made out of prestigious pine or mahogany, I was cut from cedar. For weeks we had shared the same space and patie
In-depth story: Dr. Praise Matemavi - From Teen Mom to Transplant Surgeon
An unplanned pregnancy at the age of 18 threatened to derail her dream of one day becoming a surgeon, but she wouldn’t let it. Though she had every reason to give up, failure was not an option. As a single mother of two, she put herself through medical school and was the only woman in her residency class. She fought her way to the top in a male-dominated field despite hearing d
I Am My Sister's Keeper
As much as I'd like to believe that my life is mine to live, I can't deny the power of my influence. I'm not a queen or first lady; I don't hold a scepter in my hand. I'm not the head of a Fortune 500 company, neither do I sit on the board of directors of your favourite charity. No one is banging down my door to get my autograph or running me off the road to take my picture. An
It's Not Personal, I Just Can't Save You From Yourself
One of the most important lessons that has had an enormous impact on my life is learning that I cannot change people.
Piles Of Odd Pieces
An old man was sitting at his dining room table putting together a jigsaw puzzle. He had been working on it for quite some time. Off to his right, was the top of the puzzle box which bore the picture he was trying to piece together. In front of him were the few puzzle pieces he had managed to fit together correctly. There were other pieces scattered around off to his left, and
In-depth Story - Berlange Presilus: How This Fashion Model Learned to Embrace Her Rare Syndrome And is Now Putting Her Best Foot Forward
No one knew what was wrong. For years, doctor after doctor had thrown their hands up in defeat. They had never encountered such a mysterious condition in all their years of experience. Finally, after years of suffering a private battle that had left her physically and emotionally scarred, she found one doctor who said the words she had longed to hear her entire life: “I can hel
The Thing About Value
The 2017 Lamborghini Aventador S has a base value of $420,000. Many factors were taken into account when the price was considered — like speed, design, power, the brand, and the amount of work put into creating the model. The manufacturer determined the value of the car. It would be completely ludicrous for Lamborghini, after designing and assembling the Aventador S, to ask Toy
To the “They” Club...
I usually address my letters with some endearing salutation but I feel some type of way about you all and I prefer to be blunt rather than fake. All my life I’ve been cautioned about you - "What will 'they' think?" or, "What will 'they' say?" "They" Club, pardon me for being so brusque, but who are you people who seem to invisibly control what I and others do? I have often been
What The Audience Never Knows
The show is about to begin and the audience is silent. Though they're from different walks of life they all gather under one roof to see the same performance.
These Eyes
They're brown and ordinary, but if you pay close attention you'll see much more. Behind every gaze is a story. Deep in my soul is a dominant emotion. An emotion that can only be revealed through my eyes. Look into these eyes and they will inform you. They reflect my soul. They will tell you so much about me in this moment - more than I had hoped to reveal. Though my lips deceiv
So, You're Awkward? Perfect!
Many centuries ago, all the animals lived in harmony in the animal kingdom. It was a perfect world where lions and zebras trotted along side by side. This world knew neither predator nor prey because all the animals grazed on grass provided for by their caretaker. The agreement was that the animals would be well taken care of as long as they lived peacefully amongst themselves;
The Best Goodbyes
We often view trees with no leaves as bare and ugly. Indeed, leaves dancing in the breeze with grace are picturesque, and much of a tree’s identity is in its leaves.
Dear Trouble, I'm Ready...
I am not amused. For years I've kept my composure and refrained from addressing you directly. In fact, I've been afraid of you most of my life.
Dear Tomorrow...
You and I have spent a lot of quality time trying to get to know each other. I’ve spent numerous hours thinking about you. In my dreams, I've imagined what you look like and what you have to offer me. I’ve always pictured you and I riding off into the sunset and living happily ever after. Ah, but thoughts of you have also caused me great distress - tossing and turning during th
TWSC Post-Me: Making The Picture
What a beautiful picture. It speaks to me because the reason the photographer stopped to capture this image was most likely because of the green flower. It’s what makes the picture so captivating. What if the green flower spent its days wallowing in shame and distress because it didn’t look like the other flowers? What if it spent its days and nights in tears, asking its creato
Sometimes the Simplest Question is the Hardest to Answer
Self - The Common Denominator
Source: American Association of University Women
To Me, With Love
As I stand here and stare at the reflection in the mirror, I realize my victim is no stranger - we share the same heartbeat. Though I’ve known you since birth, I confess that I haven’t always been good to you. I've neglected my responsibility to always treasure you, and now it’s time to make amends. Often times, I’ve put you down and judged you harshly. On many occasions, I tho
Dear Mirror,
A complicated relationship you and I have had over the years. As a baby, I marveled at you because you loved to play games with me. What a tease you were. You showed me someone who looked and acted just like me - she did everything I did! When I laughed she laughed, too. But I could never touch her. Your little games were cute back then but I’m not laughing any more. You like t
In Her Shoes: The Esther Factor
Life had been tough. Not only had she lost both parents, but she was a foreigner living in exile. Thank God for Cousin Mordecai who had taken her in and raised her as his own. He had taught her well and protected her from unsolicited attention her beauty often drew. But cousin Mordecai couldn’t hide her from scouts sent from the palace in search of the most beautiful women in t
Past, I'm Moving On!
Since a new month has rolled around, I find it necessary to address the status of our relationship. I have tried over and over to break free from you, Past, but you keep contacting me. The moment I gathered up the strength to leave you, I packed up my 10 suitcases filled with memories we shared and escaped; running for dear life away from you. The first days without you were li
My Beauty
What is this "thing" we strive for but cannot describe? Beauty, what does it mean to me? I’m glad you asked. I’ll tell you about my beauty. My beauty is how I was created, Not what my money can fix. My beauty is not the way that I sway, But the path I choose to walk. My beauty is not in the length of my hair, But in my boldness to wear it however I please, Regardless of what so
Loving the Real Me
Learning to be grateful for what makes you unique.I can think back to countless times in my younger days when I picked myself apart and found everything wrong with me. From my height, to my facial features, and even my personality. One thing that bothered me the most was the fact that no matter where I went, I always felt different. But now that I've settled into my 30s and hav
The Will Birthed through Adversity
As women, the weight we carry often threatens to overpower us. There was a time when I couldn't completely comprehend the concept of a mental/nervous breakdown. But life as taught me that pain is real, and it has the power to claim your right mind.I've always believed that adversity can create a passion and will that is so strong nothing can extinguish it. And every now and the
What Burns in your Heart
Maybe, just maybe...
Emotional Shoveling
“Image is Superficial,” says Model
A New Heart Regimen
A Tale of Two Lions
The Other Side of a Struggle
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.
