My Life In Wellness

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    Queen Modjadji’s Breakout Star Masutang Rasekele On Life, Wellness And Finally Living Her Dream

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    There’s been a lot of curiosity around new kid on the block Masutang Hope Rasekele, who recently made her acting debut on Queen Modjadji, a new Mzansi Magic series that has had South Africans talking since its premiere on Sunday, 14 July. Delivered purely in Khelovedu, an indigenous South African language, the show is a celebration of the life and times of the legendary rainmaking Queen Modjadji of the Balobedu nation, whose story hasn’t been documented enough to date.

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    On the show, Masutang plays Dzugudini, a role she admits she got purely by being ‘at the right place at the right time’. Initially hired as a language and cultural advisor on Queen Modjadji, Masutang was recommended by a fellow crew member when the show’s ‘powers that be’ were specifically looking for an actress fluent in Khelovedu to play the fierce and controversial Princess Dzugudini. Below, the 26-year-old breakout star lets us in on her wellness practices.

    READ MORE: Food, Fitness & Family: How Zinhle Masango Juggles It All

    Best way to start your mornings…

    “I love ushering in my mornings with absolute silence. No phone, nothing – just meditating and gathering my thoughts from the previous day and deciding how I want to proceed with the new day, the kind of energy that I want to pour into the day and lots of positive affirmations. This practice of gathering my mind, body and soul in one space usually gets me into a good mental space, especially on days when I have lots of tasks ahead of me. All of this is usually sealed with a cup of tea at the end.”

    My name means…

    “Masutang (or Mmasutdani as I prefer to spell it), means ‘make way for me’. I was born on 24 May 1998, the same day on which my great grandmother passed on. My family believed that she made way for me to arrive safely in this lifetime. So, there is the Home Affairs spelling of my name, which is Masutang. ‘Mmasutdani’ is just me trying to reclaim the real spelling of my name, especially because Khelovedu is not an official language in South Africa. The latter spelling captures the true sound of my name.”

    Wellness routine that works best for your lifestyle 

    “I usually don’t have time to go to the gym. I stay active by dancing, stretching and walking wherever possible to get those steps in. I also meditate a lot and love spending time in absolute silence – it’s literally the only time I get to evaluate the state of my mental health. I also journal a lot, I find that it elevates my mood.”

    Lessons from the last book I read 

    “It’s a book called Zwireto by Makhwekhwe Volume 1, written by an old Bolobedu-based lady called Makhwekhwe. She documents the different idioms and proverbs used in Khelovedu. This is the best purchase I’ve ever made because we seldom have material that is aimed at preserving languages and cultures. Language is a huge part of anyone’s identity. Having a book written in Khelovedu and aimed at preserving my language is the best thing that I’ve come across – and I absolutely love it.”

    READ MORE: This Cape Malay Stuffed Linefish Is Simple And Delicious

    My favourite go-to breakfast

    Molatša (leftover pap) with hot eggs. The eggs must be extremely well done, please! [chuckles]

    How I nourish my body

    “I could definitely do better in this area of my life. I love to prep for salads and could have them any time of the day. I follow someone who does what’s called ‘salad chemistry’ which has inspired me to incorporate a lot of fresh foods in my own creations. I also drink a lot of sparkling water — I don’t know if sparkling water is healthy enough though?! [chuckles]. I also believe that nourishing the body alone isn’t enough. So, I also make an effort to be gentle with, and speak positively to, myself. I’m also very particular with what I surround myself with.”

    Best wellness advice I have received

    “It’s the very common phrase: ‘Your health is your wealth’. I can’t think of any truer statement. If you take care of yourself, you will definitely reap the rewards in the end. This includes listening to my body when it’s had enough, that way I’m able to replenish my energy levels and continue with whatever work needs to be done. My work requires good physical and mental health. So, it’s only through taking good care of myself that I’m able to deliver.”

    READ MORE: Advice For Your 20s And 30s: What They Don’t Tell You About Ageing

    The last song that made me cry

    “Bonus by J John The Big Baby & Huzz Beats. Loosely translated, this Tsonga song says ‘we’re not sleeping today because we’ve received a bonus in the form of blessings.’ The song may not make sense or be relevant to some but, for me, it signifies the day my life changed when I bagged my current role on Queen Modjadji. I play this song daily to remind myself how blessed I am. Anyone more qualified could’ve gotten this role, instead I was chosen. The song, in the context of my life story, brings me to tears because I’m finally walking in the direction of the life that I’ve always dreamt of. “

    Best way to end my day

    “I love wrapping up my days by watching something light and funny on TV and debriefing via journalling. The latter allows me to take stock of my emotions and how I responded to certain things throughout the day. I love to laugh and don’t enjoy going to sleep with a heavy heart – so comedy and some self-awareness do the trick for me.” More

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      Actress Connie Ferguson On Ageing Beautifully And Honing Her Confidence

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      Two-time Women’s Health SA cover star and iconic actress Connie Ferguson is a woman of many talents. The fitness enthusiast recently launched her rebranded and extended beauty and body care range. And this is no ordinary range, she says. “I’d like whoever uses this range to feel special, spoilt, pampered and confident, like the girls they think they are and the boys they think they are,” she muses in between chuckles, before adding that the extended range was inspired by her own journey with resilience and can-do attitude. Owing to these two traits, today, she can assertively say that they have contributed towards helping her build her confidence.

      The extension of the beauty and body care range was always on the cards when she first launched in 2014, adds Connie. “We didn’t anticipate taking this long before introducing new products to the range. On the positive side this gave us more time for a thorough research and development process and the opportunity to work on more offerings from CONNIE Brands,” she explains.

      READ MORE: The July/August 2024 Issue Stories That Are Inspiring Our Editors Right Now

      Favourite way to start my day

      With praise and worship, prayer and then exercise. As soon as these three things are done, my day is set up and I’m ready to start.

      A skincare routine that works best for me

      I’ve learnt that layering products is very important as you get older. When you’re younger the focus is cleansing, toning, moisturising and using a good sunscreen. When you’re older, however, it’s important to add anti-ageing serums, turn the focus to additional hydration as well as taking good multivitamins and collagen supplements to gain a holistic approach to your health and beauty regimen.

      The best secret to ageing beautifully

      Happiness. I find peace of mind and finding joy in the smallest of things just helps regulate you as a person, and this adds to beauty from the inside out.

      READ MORE: Connie Ferguson’s Favourite Strength Training Workouts

      Best guilty pleasure

      At home it has to be my pamper days. I take my time! The Connie Eye Slices and mask have become such a treat for me! Gives me that “soft life” kind of feeling! And once a month I will have a spa day with girls where we’ll get pampered even more. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it a necessity.

      Best way to tap into my inner strength

      Meditate on prayer and spend quality time with God.

      Three wellness rules that I’m unapologetic about

      Get enough sleep, drink lots of water, make time for physical activity and don’t be shy to indulge in your Connie Products. That’s four!

      READ MORE: How To Tailor Your Skincare For Hormones, Per Experts

      Best way to nourish my body

      Include Collagen in your daily beauty rituals, and our Elixir Treatment oil is literary the best thing since sliced bread! You feel the effects immediately and see a significant difference in your skin texture and tone within 14 days.

      Favourite way to wrap up my day

      Catch up with the kids, my night time skincare routine before bed, catch up on a bit of tv, pray and call it a night. More

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      Actress Temi Otedola On Why She Prefers A Simple Wellness Routine

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      At first glance, Temi Otedola (the newly announced L’oreal Paris Digital Brand Ambassador for sub-Saharan Africa) gives off the vibe of someone who doesn’t skimp on self-care. Always styled elegantly for a 28-year-old, and a fan of a clean make-up look that still allows her skin to breathe, it’s no wonder the Nigeria-based actress is one of Africa’s most loved personalities.

      Naturally, Temi is honoured to be L’Oreal Paris‘ first digital brand ambassador, a role that will see her face plastered on the brand’s digital, and some in-store campaigns, across Africa.

      “My job is to spread the L’Oreal Paris message across Africa digitally, as that is the new frontier,” she beams. She adds: “I hope to be the first of many incredible African women in this role, and not just from Nigeria. L’Oreal Paris is a brand with a very rich legacy, but it’s still new to our space. Not new in terms of products, but awareness. I look forward to sharing about the science-based research that they do on their products and melanated skin, specifically,” shares Temi, who also adds that she can’t wait to remind women that ‘they are worth it’, per the powerful L’Oreal Paris slogan.

      In addition, through this role, Temi hopes to leave behind a legacy of having reminded young women that there is no universal beauty standard – and that comfort with, and confidence in, self trump everything else. Below, Temi shares some of the wellness practices that help her step out into the world fully radiant (and with an assured bounce in her step).

      READ MORE: How To Tailor Your Skincare For Hormones, Per Experts

      Skincare routine that I swear by

      “To be honest, I’m very simple with my skincare. So long as my skin is hydrated and I’m wearing sunscreen, that’s really where it stops and ends. Where skin is concerned, I do think that less is more. I love using  hyaluronic acid  but I think the more things we use on our skin, the more irritated it becomes.”

      “I love a facial once a month. Like I said, hydration is my top priority. But, I also always say that it doesn’t matter how many skincare products you use, if you don’t drink water or sleep enough, it’s all pointless really! I know it’s clichéd, but self-care is more important a lot of the time. I’m on a plane every few days so if I don’t back it up with sleep, my skincare routine will be pointless.”  

      Sleep catch-ups

      “If you give me the time, I could sleep up to 14 hours – I am that person [chuckles]! Unfortunately, I’m not able to do that. I can’t nap, although I wish I was able to. Let’s say I have the odd one day off and I know the next three weeks are going to be crazy, I will happily sleep for 14 hours [chuckles]. This relationship with sleep runs in my family. My 92-year-old grandmother wakes up at 5am daily, goes to her farm and she’s in bed by 8pm. I hope to be like that at her age!”

      Favourite way to stay fit 

      “Yoga is my favourite thing ever! During the pandemic when we couldn’t go to the gym, I got into yoga classes on YouTube. I love YouTube because you can get anything you need – and it’s free. I enjoy walking as well, it’s the best way to experience a new city, especially when I’m travelling.”

      READ MORE: How To Change Up Your Skin Routine For More Hydrated Skin This Winter

      Favourite way to nourish my body

      “So, I have this amazing smoothie that I love to make in the morning. It has flax seeds, chia seeds, frozen berries, spirulina powder, almond butter and a few other good things. I just throw everything in because I can just sip on it while I’m on the move all morning. I also love taking green juice, as well as fresh ginger and lemon. With all the travelling that I do, if I don’t do this daily, I will fall ill at some point. I think it’s so important to give yourself these little boosts throughout the day, be it a ginger or turmeric shot, because they help boost your immune system.

      I was vegetarian for six years and that’s very rare in Nigeria [chuckles]. I was one of five out of a population of two hundred million. I found myself hopping on and off the vegetarian diet. Having seafood now and again is also good for my iron. I think it’s important to always listen to our bodies at all times.”

      My best way to stay focused

      “Let’s say I’m on a movie set, and call time is 4am and I know that I’m going to be there until midnight, it’s actually best to put my phone away and be as present as possible. The issue with our phones is that we can be in twenty different places at once – almost like you’re teleporting yourself. You could see one message or email that could change your entire mood for the day. I only touch my phone when I feel grounded in my day. When we were shooting with L’Oreal Paris, for instance, I tried to take in as much of the present moments as possible. Our phones are a great communication tool, but they can also be very addictive and disruptive.”

      READ MORE: Everything To Know About Double Cleansing – And Which Products To Use

      Best way to de-stress

      “I love all things aromatherapy, something I inherited from my mother. I always have incense or candles burning in my room. Amazon has these eucalyptus shower steamers which I love using after a long day. They help take weight off me.”

      Best way to hone confidence

      “Confidence and beauty are what’s underneath the skin, they’re not surface level. In the past, I’ve been very honest about my insecurities and my own journey with beauty – and how in the end, I actually decided that I didn’t want to be like everyone else. I’m only trying to be the best version of Temi. You want to try be the best version of yourself at any given time, it’s never about aspiring to be like anyone else.

      Social media has made made people feel like their lives are not enough. When in fact, we should be inspiring and encouraging each other, and constantly reminding ourselves that who we are is enough.” More

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      Food, Fitness & Family: How Zinhle Masango Juggles It All

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      This two-time award-winning fitness influencer, certified nutritionist, mom, Kellogg’s ambassador and corporate hun (seriously, how does she do it all?) is giving us the inside scoop on what it really means to be fit, mentally balanced and taking care of yourself in today’s hustle. Plus, did we mention Zee’s all about authenticity? We’re obsessed.

      Quick Fire Questions: Zinhle Masango

      Who inspires you? The Rock

      The workout you dread? Burpees

      Favourite place you’ve visited? Zanzibar

      Go to workout song? HISS by Megan The Stallion

      Best way to unwind?  Run or hit the spa

      What would you do if you weren’t a fitness/influencer? Be on radio or write health articles for magazines

      The Road To Wellness

      The journey into the fitness world for Masango wasn’t just about sculpting abs; it was a tale of empowerment. “My fitness journey started back when I was in an abusive relationship,” she shares. “Fitness became an escape for me, making me not only physically strong but mentally strong too.” Fast forward a decade and Masango has become synonymous with excellence in South Africa’s fitness scene, bagging awards and collaborating with iconic brands like Kellogg’s, a brand she fondly grew up with.

      A Balancing Act Is What It Takes 

      Wellness, for Masango, is not a one-dimensional concept; it’s all about physical, mental and emotional harmony. “My brand stands for a holistic approach to wellness,” she explains, “embracing physical, mental, financial and emotional well-being.” How does she juggle it all? Balance. “I am one person who believes in a balanced lifestyle, hence one would see me going out with mates or my family and enjoying a great meal and drink. For my mental health, I go to the gym or go out for a run. I often say gym is the most underrated antidepressant. I honestly aim to give a little of myself to every aspect of life by prioritising wellness every chance I get.” 

      Self-Care Journey

      “It has been said that when you look good on the outside you are more confident,” says Masango. Her routine? From microneedling to waxing (especially her underarms and legs), she ensures she’s always polished because she wears a lot of sleeveless gym tops and shorts to the gym. And let’s not forget the power of a signature scent – she swears by it!

      “I love posting about my overall journey on my Instagram; sharing tips on nutritious meals, great workouts and showing my skin routine.”

      READ MORE: Elevate Your Wellness Routine With Kellogg’s New Granola Range

      Navigating Life’s Hustle

      Amidst the pressuring corporate life, motherhood, studies and influencer duties, Masango finds solace in mindfulness. “Running clears my mind and helps me relax,” she reveals. ” I also keep a healthy diet that is high in omega fatty acids that help feed my brain and take ashwagandha supplements to help keep my stress levels down. I have also realised that spending time with my family and friends and speaking about my mental well-being has helped a lot in decreasing my stress levels. “

      Partnerships With Purpose

      In a world saturated with partnerships, Masango remains grounded in authenticity. “When I collaborate, it’s with brands I genuinely trust and align with. Seamless and authentic content is key.”

      **WH Partnership More

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      Art Curator Lerato Bereng-Moji On How Self-Honesty Improved Her Mental Health

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      Moving to a new environment in hopes of levelling up your career or life can go either way. Sometimes, it may take longer for the grass to finally be greener on the other side. That was the case for Lerato Bereng-Moji, an art curator, director and co-owner of the Stevenson Gallery, who soon learned that studying and living art were two different concepts.

      The Root Cause

      Right after graduating with a degree in fine arts from Rhodes University, Lerato joined the art scene in Cape Town. It was here where she met her art heroes and cut her teeth working in curatorship. Coming from Maseru in Lesotho, Lerato found both Cape Town and the art scene overwhelming. “Coming to Cape Town, which is kind of a mega art city, everything was a lot to take in,” she muses.

      READ MORE: How To Actually Get Better At Talking To Yourself

      “I was super starstruck when I first arrived. I remember finally meeting someone like Penny Siopis, an honorary professor at the University of Cape Town’s Michaelis School of Fine Art, whose art we’d studied in school.” Still, she found the city a tad intimidating, which took a toll on her mental health. “Cape Town is a very Eurocentric city for starters, and has a very different landscape from many African cities,” she explains.

      “While learning a lot – and I’ll always be grateful for that experience – I also found it incredibly alienating.” Lerato also struggled with resonating with the art in Cape Town.“I found that the predominant voice [in most of the art] was really unfamiliar to me. It was difficult to find my own voice and to figure out who I was, and what I wanted to do creatively in a space that had very little that I could add to my experience.” In this way, Lerato felt not only far from home geographically but conceptually, too.

      The Tides of Change

      Then in late 2010, an opportunity to travel to Joburg for a conference presented itself. At the spur of the moment, Lerato decided not to book a return ticket. “I was offered a return ticket and I kind of impulsively decided to ask for a one-way,” she recalls. She didn’t know much about Joburg at first, but grew to love it. “I really enjoyed the energy and hustle of the city and most people here are migrant labourers like myself,” she points out.

      READ MORE: Fall Asleep Faster With These 7 Hacks For Better Sleep

      Lerato started hustling to find work in the Joburg art scene, while enjoying the new Afrocentric space that spoke to her. “You immediately encounter Joburg with a punch in your face and I appreciated the honesty of the city,” she shares. Not only that, but Joburg is only a mere four-hour drive to her home country.

      In late 2013, Lerato also completed a Masters thesis, centred on Lesotho, which was met with great appreciation. “I called it Conversations at Morija. The first iteration happened in 2013, and again in 2015 and 2017,” she says. Another was held in October this 2023 around Lesotho’s Independence Day, and will centre on her recent exhibition and book How to Make a Country.

      “I now understand that the only way to make it, or to make something of myself in the world, is if I’m entirely honest,” she muses. And that’s a liberating lesson that she’s since carried into all aspects of her life!

      Parting Shot

      2010…The year Lerato learnt that Joburg was exactly what her mental health needed.

      READ MORE: TV/Radio Presenter Rorisang Thandekiso On The Moments That Defined Her Path Forever

      Best Lesson…“So often, we try to fit ourselves into the moulds that are presented as what has already been, but we’re not here to occupy spaces of what’s already begun.”

      11…The approximate number of art exhibitions Lerato has curated in her career. More

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      TV/Radio Presenter Rorisang Thandekiso On The Moments That Defined Her Path Forever

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      TV/Radio broadcaster and speaker Rorisang Thandekiso’s biggest turning point came in Grade 8. Vocal from a very young age, Rorisang often got into trouble for being too opinionated or mediating a fight between classmates, for instance. “So much so that the principal called me Winnie Mandela. My mother would get called in because I talked a lot,” she recalls.

      The ‘talking’ started affecting her marks via the school’s demerit system, where for every wrongdoing, points would be deducted from the learner’s final year mark. “At the end of Grade 4, I received two report cards – one with my actual marks, where I’d passed, and one where the demerit points had been deducted and I’d failed. The school went with the latter report card, meaning I had to repeat the Grade 4.”

      READ MORE: How One Woman Overcame Diet Pill Addiction And Reclaimed Her Life

      Nothing But A Minor Hurdle

      Livid, Rorisang’s mother wanted to take her daughter out of the school, to which her grandfather advised: “Don’t, it will shrivel her up forever!” That year, Rorisang repeated Grade 4 and vowed to keep silent, which killed her confidence and made her feel as though there was something innately wrong with her. 

      Fast-forward to Grade 8…Rorisang’s English teacher would always sing her praises on just how well she narrated stories and carried out her class presentations. “That year, he encouraged me to enter the English Olympiad competition that was actually meant for Grade 11 and 12 learners. I won and we only declared afterwards that I was, in fact, in Grade 8,” she shares, adding that in that moment a light bulb went on in her head. 

      READ MORE: 10 Wellness Quotes By Miss SA Natasha Joubert (That We Absolutely Loved!)

      Feeling Seen

      “Winning the English Olympiad competition made me feel seen and reaffirmed that there had been nothing wrong with me throughout primary school. The competition celebrated me for having an opinion. All of a sudden everything that I loved – engaging, debating and trying to change the world through my opinions – suddenly had a place to live,” she enthuses. 

      As a result of wanting to be an agent of change, Rorisang studied International Relations after matric. And even though she didn’t get to change the world through championing policies – being cooped up in an office was just not for her – she did find another platform when the yesteryear children’s TV show YOTV headhunted her. This, after seeing her making waves locally and internationally through her debating engagements.

      “At 18, my first presenting gig was a show called Blue Couch, which dealt with the more serious stuff – and I later started producing it. This was the beginning of a broadcast career that has spanned nearly 20 years.” 

      READ MORE: DJ And Fitness Trainer Miss Bee On Crafting A New Life After Surviving Cancer

      Staying Power

      The secret to her longevity is from another lesson she learnt while waitressing as a teen. “I worked at a restaurant where Tata, one of the chefs, would always encourage me to arrive at work early so he could show me how the kitchen operates. He wanted me to get the complete picture of how a restaurant functions,” she says. Tata taught her a valuable lesson: “In any place, the most knowledgeable and impactful people are usually behind the scenes – and are often the most disregarded,” he said. This lesson guides Rorisang to this day. 

      “I’ve learnt that no one is beneath me. There can never be anything that makes me feel too important. Many of my work opportunities come through ordinary people. Therefore, there can never be anything that makes me feel too important. Fame, for me, is a weird concept,” she concludes.  

      Parting Shot

      I could never live without…God. I’m fully dependent on Him and it’s the one relationship I cannot compromise on. The things people enjoy about me – be it TV, radio or an MCing gig – I pull them from God. Family has also been my biggest source of support.

      One thing most people don’t know about me is that…I only watch Nollywood films and K-Drama series. So much so that I usually get into trouble when I meet local personalities that I’m supposed to know [chuckles].

      What I hope to build more of in 2024 is…I’d like to zone in more on my ‘speaking’ era. I really want to travel the world with my speaking engagements.

      This article originally appeared in the Jan/Feb 2024 edition of Women’s Health SA. More

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      How One Woman Overcame Diet Pill Addiction And Reclaimed Her Life

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      Monique Eloff has regained control of her body and eating habits and is now South Africa’s own Supreme Queen Global Earth Africa. But when she was 18, a bad breakup saw her struggling with diet pill addiction. Here, she tells her story to inspire and educate other women about the dangers of weight loss pills and how she regained control of her body – and eating habits.

      The impetus

      For four years, Monique had been battling with her weight and was trying to shed unwanted kilos. In 2005, when Monique was 18, a heartbreaking break-up sent her into depression and she tried to regain control by becoming fixated on losing weight. “My addiction started after going through a major relationship breakup and my inability to deal with the pain, the loss, the rejection and feelings of ‘not being wanted’,” Monique reflects. “I became obsessed with losing weight.” Monique visited a dietician but it didn’t work, mostly, Monique thought, because of a hormone imbalance caused by prolonged chronic stress that threw things out of whack in her body.

      The beginning of a diet pill addiction

      Thereafter, Monique tried an endocrinologist, but her treatment was expensive and she opted out.

      It was around this time that Monique discovered weight loss pills. “I was introduced to a substance called ephedrine. In year one, I mixed ephedrine with cayenne pepper to make my own weight-loss tablets,” she says. “That worked really well. I started to lose weight and I experienced increased energy levels and I also experienced higher performance at varsity and even better grades in my studies.” Unfortunately, Monique started building up a tolerance to the drugs and needed more to keep losing weight. To get there, she turned to ephedrine in its purest form. “At certain points, I even refined it for snorting,” she confesses.

      “One thing led to another. I could not sleep because of the adrenaline rush effect one gets using ephedrine. Then, I started taking sleeping tablets at night. I could not eat, because ephedrine is a potent appetite suppressant and I battled with fatigue and in turn, balancing my studies and my part-time work became extremely difficult. I was already on my way to complete burnout. My ability to cope, concentrate and perform was diminished,” she says.

      READ MORE: 10 Wellness Quotes By Miss SA Natasha Joubert (That We Absolutely Loved!)

      The turning point

      There were signs of the diet pill addiction that others could see – but she couldn’t. For one, she had limited self-control, talked a lot and experienced severe reactions to stress.

      On the inside, Monique was privy to extreme thirst, heart palpitations and shakiness. She felt depressed, anxious and sensitive. “Ephedrine certainly kept the weight off but the weight of the addiction literally crushed the life out of me and it left me feeling a great deal of shame, guilt and regret,” she says.

      Added to that, she was experiencing gastrointestinal disorders, mood swings and shortness of breath. Her central nervous system was beginning to shut down and Monique was forced to get help. “I had no choice; my body made the decision for me,” she says. In 2007, Monique was hospitalised and underwent treatment.

      READ MORE: Author Janine Jellars Shares Her Simple Wellness Routine

      The change

      “I received treatment that was aimed at opening up the receptors in my brain in order for the normal flight or fight response mechanisms to start functioning again,” Monique explains. “My body experienced inefficiencies in secreting adrenalin, serotonin and other key hormones. I had a complete imbalance in my body.”

      With treatment, Monique slowly started to improve, but the road to healing was long. “Diet and sleep played a crucial part in my recovery. I had to teach my body what a normal healthy intake of food consisted of and looked like, at frequent and consistent intervals,” she says. “Over time my mood and concentration levels improved. I could literally feel balance coming back to my body, and it felt amazing. The toughest part was the realization of how far I’ve taken my addiction and the damage it has done. The impact it had on my loved ones. What I’ve lost in the process and the fact that I had to drop out of varsity in my third year. I felt like a complete failure. I think my mental scars outweigh the physical scars, and for me, the biggest battlefield was my mind.”

      READ MORE: Weight Loss Pills: We Delved Deep Into The Science To See If Any Actually Work

      The glow up

      Through all this, Monique feels that she’s grown a lot as a person. “My mess has become my message and today I get to tell my story unapologetically. I still have feelings of shame, guilt and regret; however, it shows that I am human and that it matters to me,” she says.

      Now, 16 years later, Monique is at a happy weight and is taking things further in her life, earning her spot as the reigning Supreme Queen Global Earth Africa for 2023. “My wounds have given me great wisdom,” she notes. “This journey on earth is all about unbecoming to become, letting go of the things that are no longer serving you well.” More

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      DJ And Fitness Trainer Miss Bee On Crafting A New Life After Surviving Cancer

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      Botle Kayamba, popularly known as Miss Bee, is proof that the Covid-19 lockdown bore fruit for some. Growing up, Miss Bee was surrounded by music – mom always led the praise and worship team at church and her brother was a DJ – she enrolled for an online DJing course in 2021. Yep, only three years ago. Upon graduating, she continued sharpening her mixing skills at home, then slowly started putting her hand up for playing at gigs and radio stations. This past December, Miss Bee headlined her first international gig, the Lovers of House Festival in Groningen, northern Netherlands. Spotting a lesson here? Nothing is impossible to a willing mind.

      Going For Gold

      “During lockdown when fitness training wasn’t as big a priority for most, I started thinking of ways to expand my career. And I couldn’t shake off my love for music and decided to jump into DJing.”

      And given her current struggle with local promoters always wanting to negotiate her fee down and her past health struggles, she certainly doesn’t take her milestones for granted – and these include winning the Queen of the Beat competition that was hosted by the City of Johannesburg and the Department of Arts and Culture and a resident Dj on 5Fm’s The Roger Goode Show.

      READ MORE: How Dyslexia Led Me To A Thriving Career In Art

      Fighting The Odds

      Miss Bee was diagnosed with type 3 Ameloblastoma in her early twenties, a rare cancer that had affected her right lower jaw.

      “Mine was a severe case – my right ear was always painful, I lost eyesight on the left, my hearing on the left ear also suffered and my jaw was abnormally swollen,” she shares, adding that she practically lived in hospitals between 2004 and 2006. Over time, her face became so deformed that she had to undergo three surgeries. The last and major op was a mandibulectomy, a surgical procedure where a small or huge chunk of one’s lower jaw bone is removed. “In my case, my left lower jaw was removed and replaced with a plate which helped give my face its shape again,” she explains. 

      During one of Botle’s hospital stays, her bed happened to be next to a window that overlooked a quiet road with a set of traffic lights nearby. “I’d keep busy by watching the traffic lights change from green to orange and red, while quietly interrogating God about when the pain and hospital stays would end,” she reflects. Her mental health had taken quite a knock too. “My tertiary studies had been interrupted, I felt stuck and wondered if I’d ever catch up to my peers,” she recalls.

      READ MORE: Author Janine Jellars Shares Her Simple Wellness Routine

      And Then There Was Light

      Coincidentally, around the time when these negative thoughts plagued Miss Bee’s thoughts, her mother and a group of church ladies came to pray for her. Before doing so, they read a Bible scripture from Isaiah 60: 22 which reads: ‘When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen.’ 

      Since 2006 Miss Bee’s recovery journey has been peppered with many magical moments. Chief among them was the birth of her son Thabiso in 2009. “I really feel like God more than made up for all the years I was in hospital. In a lot of ways, I feel like Isaiah 60: 22 brought me back to life by restoring my hope,” she concludes, adding she is proof that whatever’s meant for you will always make its way to you – no matter how long it takes. 

      While recovering, Botle had to learn how to do a lot of basic things such as chewing, after a long period of eating through a straw. Graduating with a sports management qualification became one of her saving grace, she says. “Working out became my therapy. Whether running or dancing, I felt so alive. When I started working at Virgin Active as a trainer, the positive feedback I’d get after my classes also lifted my spirit. I’d almost lost my life, yet here I was inspiring others to take care of themselves.” Looking back at the things she’s achieved since her recovery, Botle is convinced that she wasn’t as ready as she is now.

      READ MORE: Radio Personality Gugu Mfuphi On The Lessons Learnt During Her Kilimanjaro Summit — And More

      Biggest Career Highlight

      “As a fitness trainer, it had always been my wish to be on the Women’s Health Fit Night Out stage. I came so close to this wish in 2017 when I made the top five in the WH Fit Star competition –  a great feat even though I didn’t win. My wish finally came true in 2023 when I played to a crowd of more than 2,000 women at Fit Night Out.”

      Best Lesson To Date

      “There’s more to life than sulking and self-pity. Having fought so hard for this second chance, I can safely say that challenges are purely there to shape us.”

      Four Things I Can’t Live Without

      God, family, my son and my phone. 

      Favourite Get-Up-And-Dance Track

      “Premier Gaou by Magic System. It takes me back to my happy childhood days and reminds me of how far I have come.”

      Lesser Known Fact About Me

      “I have a twin sister.” More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Author Janine Jellars Shares Her Simple Wellness Routine

      by

      Former magazine editor Janine Jellars wrote her debut novel When The Filter Fades six years ago as part of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) in November 2017. Her aim? To write 1,667 words a day in order to complete a 50,000-word first draft manuscript within one month. More than anything, this was a creative challenge that she’d set out for herself.

      “After I left journalism, I spent less, and less time writing on a daily basis and felt alienated from that part of my identity. But, the beauty of writing is that it’s a craft and wellness practice and the only pre-requisite for calling yourself a writer is to sit at your laptop and get to writing,” she shares, adding that she wanted to explore the joy of writing and challenge myself in a different way. “So, I tried my hand at fiction.”

      READ MORE: Enjoy Your Downtime (Without Feeling Guilty) In 3 Easy Steps

      The Difference Between Writing Fiction and Non-Fiction

      I actually wrote When The Filter Fades before I wrote my first book The Big South African Hair Book, which I found a much more familiar and comfortable experience given that it was non-fiction, fact-based and an extension of reportage. With fiction, there’s obviously a lot of imagination involved, there’s research too, but there’s a lot of thinking things through, problem-solving the plot and speaking to myself out loud to feel if the dialogue sounds real and authentic.

      It also played with many of my anxieties – I had to push through procrastination, I constantly questioned why I was taking certain characters in certain directions, the characters deal with their own traumas and mental health challenges so there was also some excavation involved in the process.

      In terms of putting the book out into the world, the difference between fiction and non-fiction was night and day. With The Big South African Hair Book, given that it was non-fiction, it could be fact-checked, the messaging was very clear. When The Filter Fades was so different for me – it’s so open to interpretation and governed by the audience’s likes and dislikes. And for someone like me who likes control, and is a recovering perfectionist, it’s been tough, but rewarding. 

      Nourishing Her Body

      I’m definitely a ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ person. I cannot function without breakfast, and I am an oats devotee. Cooked rolled oats, with almond milk, 7 raw almonds, blueberries, and bananas. To me, that’s the only way I can kickstart the day. When writing, I snack quite a bit – there’s something about chewing that keeps me focused. 

      READ MORE: How To Reflect On The Year You’ve Had – And Prepare For The Year Ahead

      The Demands Of Writing

      Writing for me is deeply necessary. It’s clarity, it’s tangibility. Feelings, thoughts, intentions, plans… things do not feel real to me unless they’re archived and written. I’m working hard at making writing a daily practice – I’m following The Artist’s Way’s Morning Pages practice – because it definitely provides me with so much clarity and helps me process how I understand the world. I’m a list-maker, a letter writer, a note-taker and now a novelist. So much in the world feels ephemeral and disposable and finding practices where we can hold onto things for a little bit longer definitely feels like a luxury. 

      Learning To Relax

      I have a really hard time with the concept of relaxation. But being intentional about certain routines helped me immensely. Morning Pages first thing in the morning is definitely something I enjoy – I freeform write for three pages.

      I am also newly converted to Pilates – not exactly the most relaxing thing I’ve ever done, but there’s something special about feeling yourself getting stronger. And last but not least, reading – everything from romance novels, to sociological non-fiction.  

      READ MORE: 15 Wellness Journals To Kickstart Your Year

      Her Sources Of Strength

      I don’t want to make it to the end of my journey without feeling like I’ve done everything I’ve wanted to do – there are so many childhood dreams I want to fulfil. I do so many things for ‘Younger Me’. I have definitely started growing in my faith as I’ve grown older. And cognitive behavioural therapy helps a lot! 

      What She Wants Readers To Take Away From Her Latest Book

      On one level, it’s a sizzling, fun summer read – so I want readers to have a good time, get lost in my character’s world and immerse themselves in the drama and intrigue. But, on a deeper level, I wanted to explore how we women mediate our lives, how we represent and misrepresent ourselves, what drives our behaviours, insecurities, and deepest desires, and how we fight battles with ourselves and amongst one another for status, power and money.  More