South Africa: We Learn Through Every Experience

A Journey of Growth and Empowerment

“My name is Nokubongwa Hlongwane. I was born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal and moved to Gauteng in 2005 to start high school. It was a challenging time. I struggled with peer pressure and criticism because I spoke isiZulu and wanted to fit in. Those experiences taught me an important lesson: I am enough. I don’t need to please anyone to feel worthy.”

Nokubongwa’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Like many young women, she faced bullying and isolation during her teenage years. These experiences chipped away at her confidence and self-esteem. But through her involvement with the One in Nine Campaign, she discovered the power of solidarity and the strength that comes from shared experiences.

“I’ve grown my self-esteem, and I also understand how to challenge the weakness within me.”

The One in Nine Campaign became a turning point in her life. It taught her that every voice matters and that pain and injustice are collective struggles. “Through my interactions with the campaign, I’ve learned to be sympathetic to others’ pain and experiences,” she says. “Our voices are connected, and when one of us suffers, it affects us all.”

Building Confidence and Skills

Nokubongwa credits much of her growth to the support and accountability provided by mentors within the campaign. “Scaps is responsible for the change in my life with her motivation and always holding us accountable in sessions,” she explains. Her involvement opened doors to new opportunities and skills. She participated in Art for Liberation workshops, which nurtured her creativity and gave her tools to express herself. She learned self-defence tactics to protect herself in dangerous situations and deepened her understanding of gender-based violence and feminist principles. These experiences shaped her values and behaviours, helping her grow into a confident, empowered individual. “I have gained a lot from One in Nine: creativity skills, self-defence, strengthened knowledge on gender-based violence, and values that are beneficial for my growth.”

Driving Change in the Community

Empowerment for Nokubongwa is not just personal, it’s collective. She and her peers have worked to bring change to their communities. One initiative close to her heart is supporting elderly women to start food gardens, enabling them to sustain themselves during tough times. This practical approach to care work reflects the campaign’s commitment to addressing poverty and promoting self-reliance.

Political education sessions have also been transformative. “We learn about power, our rights as women, how to support survivors of violence, and how to work together to strengthen our voices,” Nokubongwa says. These sessions have equipped her with knowledge about feminism and advocacy, reinforcing her belief that change begins with awareness and unity.

Looking Ahead

Nokubongwa’s journey is far from over. Her next goal is to continue working with elderly women in her community while pursuing her dream of starting a business in the beauty industry. Her story is a testament to the power of feminist organising and the importance of creating spaces where women can learn, grow, and lead. “My next step is to continue working with the elderly women; however, I also would love to start a business of my own, in the beauty industry.”

Why This Story Matters

Nokubongwa’s experience highlights the intersection of gender equality, youth empowerment, and community development. It shows how feminist movements like the One in Nine Campaign can transform lives by fostering confidence, building skills, and promoting solidarity. Her journey reminds us that every experience no matter how difficult can become a stepping stone towards growth and change.

By: Nokubongwa Hlongwane