South Africa: Building Bridges in Mental Health

A Story of Leadership and Learning

When Luyanda Memela joined the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) in KwaZulu-Natal in July 2021, she stepped into a role that would not only shape her career but also transform her life. As an aspiring psychology professional and an unemployed single mother, Luyanda saw this opportunity as a chance to contribute meaningfully to mental health advocacy while gaining valuable experience.

Her appointment as a Team Leader for the Support Group Leaders Training Initiative was the beginning of a journey marked by resilience, growth, and impact. Initially contracted for six months, her role extended into the following year—a testament to her dedication and the value she brought to the project.

The Work Behind the Scenes

Luyanda’s responsibilities were diverse and demanding. She liaised with KwaZulu-Natal Health District Mental Health Coordinators to recruit support group leaders across the province. She coordinated both virtual and in-person training sessions, ensuring that leaders were equipped to establish and sustain support groups in their communities.

One of her proudest achievements was organizing an in-person training event in December 2021, which successfully brought together representatives from nine out of eleven districts in KwaZulu-Natal. Beyond logistics, Luyanda worked closely with support group leaders, offering guidance and follow-up to ensure continuity and progress. She also collaborated with first-year Master’s students who were part of the project, delegating tasks and compiling reports on their contributions.

Challenges Along the Way

Despite her passion and commitment, Luyanda faced significant challenges. “The quality and completeness of my work often depended on others,” she explains. Delays in feedback from support group leaders and students made meeting deadlines difficult. Limited resources, such as airtime and data, added to the strain of maintaining communication.

Yet, these obstacles did not deter her. Instead, they became opportunities for growth. “I learned to navigate complex situations and adapt quickly,” she says. Her experience taught her the importance of persistence and creative problem-solving in community-based work.

Personal and Professional Growth

Working with SADAG was more than a job—it was a stepping stone toward Luyanda’s dream of becoming a mental health professional. “I have networked with relevant people in the field of mental health, strengthened my administrative, communication, and writing skills, and gained confidence as a leader,” she reflects.

The role also provided financial relief during a challenging time, enabling her to support her family while pursuing her passion. “As an unemployed single mother, this opportunity was life-changing,” she adds.

Impact and Future Aspirations

Luyanda’s work has had a ripple effect beyond her personal growth. By supporting the establishment of mental health support groups, she has contributed to breaking the silence around mental health in KwaZulu-Natal. These groups offer safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences, access resources, and find hope.

Looking ahead, Luyanda envisions a future where she can continue to make a difference. “I hope to work within SADAG or a similar organization, where I can render my services to assist people in the mental health field,” she says. Her ultimate goal is to be part of educational and training initiatives that empower communities with knowledge about mental health.

Why This Story Matters

Luyanda Memela’s journey is a powerful example of how empowerment initiatives like WVL-SA create pathways for women to lead and inspire change. Her story highlights the intersection of gender equality, mental health advocacy, and community development—critical themes in building a more inclusive and supportive society.

Through determination and collaboration, Luyanda has turned challenges into opportunities, proving that when women are given the tools and platforms to lead, they not only transform their own lives but also uplift entire communities.

By: Luyanda Memela.