A tribute to WOMEN

Koketso Mashika marvels at women's strength, resilience and ability to innovate in a world that often tries to hold them back.

- Koketso Mashika

 

I am filled with awe and admiration when I think about the strong women I know. This is why American entrepreneur Amy Rees Anderson's quote, "Here's to strong women: May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them," is by far one of my all-time favourite quotes. I am fortunate to look at the extraordinary women who have shaped my life and the world and be reminded of the strength and tenacity within us all.

I was diagnosed with major depression and anxiety disorder roughly seven months ago. At the time, I experienced debilitating panic attacks several times a day - especially in the mornings. I was at a crossroads in my career, dealing with an impending retrenchment, another failed relationship, feelings of inadequacy, the pressures of being a single mother of two (the youngest being a newborn) and financial pressures.