This opinion piece was published on The Star national newspaper on May 29, 2015 under the headline "Create your own world woman"
There
is a reason that Nelson Mandela is the most celebrated icon amongst all the
South African heroes who took part in the emancipation of our nation. There is
a reason Mahatma Gandhi, Malcolm X, Julius Malema and Mmusi Maimane are individuals
that we look up to for leadership, wisdom and inspiration.
Our
country is full of copy cats and people who believe they can only flourish in
life if they follow suit in someone’s footsteps. Every teenage girl wants to be
a Bonang Matheba and Nomuzi Mabena because that is what they are exposed to
forgetting that presenting is their talent. But few desire to be a Nkosazana
Dlamini-Zuma or Isabel Dos Santos because their environment doesn’t offer that
broad sense of thinking.
Youth
especially young females in work places tolerate and accept being oppressed and
being made to feel like they shouldn’t communicate their opinions and concerns.
Because we are naturally emotional beings, for every point raised, we are made
to feel like we are out of line where else, as women we cannot argue the same
as a male colleague. We cannot gain authority over a conversation because of my
“Manly presence” but of course I am going to raise my voice and make sure you
get my point if I have to for you to get it.
Dear
Mfazi its okay to be opinionated. It is okay to propose and implement change in
your workplace, church, and home and where ever you feel you can convey positivity.
Your voice is as equal as the man standing next to you and holding a position
same as yours. Be that the Malala Yousafzai, Maggie Gyllenhaal, the Thuli
Madonsela, Terry Pheto, Angelina Jolie and Hillary Clinton of your surroundings
or forever live a life constructed by another equal human being.
See it on Create your own World woman by Mary-Jane MabulaTweet Me your comments on @BlazinLuv
Get to know Me on Instagram @MARYJANERM
