EVER since being crowned Miss South Africa she’s been upfront about the struggles she’s faced over the years, from being bullied and body shamed to struggling with anxiety.
All have had an effect on Shudufhadzo Musida’s emotional wellbeing and resulted in her seeking professional help.
So when her Miss SA predecessor and former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi asked her which movement she’d start if she won the title, she didn’t think twice.
“I’d call it the mindful movement,” she replied. “Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among people between the ages of 15 and 29. So I believe that mobilising people to strive for mental health would fix so many social ills.”
Now, four months after being crowned Miss SA, the 24-year-old has been true to her word. Shudu recently launched the Mindful Mondays initiative – an online mental health movement in conjunction with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag). Its goal: to change the stigma around depression, trauma and anxiety.
Shudu would’ve preferred to do these weekly talks about mental health in front of a live audience, but because of the pandemic she decided to host them on Instagram every Monday at 7pm.
“The initiative is basically conversations with experts to educate communities about mental health and ultimately to try to destigmatise it,” she explains.
The Limpopo beauty says she proposed the initiative to Sadag last November and hasn’t looked back.
This story is from the 4 March 2021 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 4 March 2021 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE MICHAEL'S ANGELS
The king of pop's kids are a close-knit trio who guard their privacy fiercely
BARBIES ON THE GO!
Sending their dolls 'travelling' around the country started as way to escape everyday life during the pandemic and four years later they're still going strong
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
These musician decided to pack up their lives and trek across the country - with three kids in tow!
TALES FROM THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR
After 40 years in Tinseltown, filmmaker Ed Zwick is spilling the beans about the stars with the biggest egos in his tell-all memoir - and he doesn't regret a thing
India's national election
SOUTH Africa isn't the only country holding an election this year - America and India, among others, are also heading to the polls. Most countries hold elections every five years, and it typically takes place one day before the votes are counted.
IS YOUR BRA HARMING YOUR HEALTH?
Wearing the wrong bra size can cause more than discomfort - a poor fit can lead to bigger problems
MY STORY IS ONE OF HOPE
She was born with a rare condition that affects her muscles but it hasn't stopped Kerry from getting a degree or writing a book
DEATH FROM ABOVE
Drones, like the one used to kill seven aid workers in Gaza, are becoming common in battlefields
FINALLY I'M FREE
IT STARTED innocently enough, with a Bible study group, scripture readings and prayers in the suburbs of Centu rion.
CONJOINED IN HOLY MATRIMONY
Abby and Brittany have again sparked public interest after Abby's 2021 wedding recently made headlines