What’s good, SKY Fam!?
It’s your girl , Ble ings!
Hope you’re all as excited as I am because the new magazine issue is finally here!
It’s packed with all things fabulous and fun! Get ready to be ignited, entertained and captivated because this issue is packed with exciting content waiting for you to check it out!
This issues’ theme is, “Is Delulu the Solulu?”
Do you think being delulu is the solulu? Well I think it is! Being delulu does help us bring some magic and fantasy in our life, and in that, it brings out more confidence in someone and it gives you a sense of purpose and motivation. Sis, sometimes being delulu can guide you towards your goal because staying hopeful, even when it seems the odds are staked against us, is what it takes to succeed and reach your goals. It just gives you that extra confidence you didn’t know you needed! It's playful, not meant to be taken super seriously, and it’s all about embracing a little harmless delusion for the sake of fun or hope.
This issue is packed with different content on mental health too. When we talk about mental health, we’re simply talking about a person’s emotional, psychological and social well being. It’s not about being happy all the time, and knowing that sometimes it’s ok to be sad, anxious, or stressed. This issue shows us how to create balance in our life so we have the best mental health possible.
This issue also has content on how self-confidence and resilience play a key role in one’s life. Self-care, self-awareness, positive self-talk, adaptability and many more help us in life, helping us become the best versions of ourselves - now that’s winning sis!
As you go to page 6, you’ll find the Mood Battery, this article is helpful and will help you keep track of your mood each day. This page also gives you some tips on how to feel recharged. Nothing lifts up your mood like music does. Whether you’re listening to music alone or at a party. SKY’s Ultimate playlist on page 7 has some of your favorite jams listed for you. Music is medicine, sis. Make sure to take lots of it!
In this issue’s Body Beautiful, we have some pre-period essentials on how to prepare for your periods.
Elo manje if you’re a foodie like me, this issue’s DIY is legit, we have some pro tips on how to make a magical hot chocolate, isn’t that existing?
Overall, I hope you’re as excited as I am to get into this issue. Always remember that your mental health matters. It’s okay to not be okay, sis. Build self trust, overcome doubt and boost your confidence Muntu wanga!
Stay true xoxo, Ble ings Angie
Tina-Mwabi Zulu
My Thing Poetry, Fashion, Watching Movies
Not My Thing Smoking, The Dark, Running
Elizabeth Lyambela
My Thing Eating, Dancing, badminton
Not My Thing Bullying, Laziness, Smoking
Yvonne Phiri
My Thing Eating, Reading, Math
Not My Thing Bullying, Smoking, Bad Vibes
Deborah M. Malombola
My Thing Researching, Reading, Sleeping
Not My Thing Smoking, Bad Vibes, Negative People
Deborah L. Kafwanka
My Thing Eating, Doing My Nails, Sleeping
Not My Thing Procrastination, Dancing, Discrimination
Barbra Chanda
My Thing Reading, Sleeping, Writing
Not My Thing Smoking, Negativity, Pretentious People
Tikazi kamanga
Bwalya Joyce
My Thing Poetry, Sunsets, Music
Not My Thing Physics, Small Spaces, Maximalism
My Thing K-dramas, Poetry, Fashion
Not My Thing Bullying, Indecisiveness, Smoking
Jiya Kaninde
My Thing Art, Books, Food
Not My Thing Studying, Boredom, Hot Weather
Felistus M Katwamba
My Thing Creativity, Good Food, Photography
Not My Thing Horror Films, Smoking, Procrastination
Mood Battery:
How Charged Are You?
By Bwalya Penza
Checking in with yourself is key. Knowing how you feel helps you stay in control. Some things charge you up, and others? Ah! They just chow your energy. Off days happen, but we can’t stay stuck in them, our glow is too precious for that! Just like your phone battery runs low and needs a charge, so do you. The Mood Battery helps you track your energy and get back to green bars.
Take a sec and ask yourself: Am I fully charged, or do I need a boost?
Fully Charged Good Vibes Only
You’re lit! Energy is high, and nothing can dim your shine. These moments kept your mood glowing today:
Squad time - My besties had me laughing all day
Good music - My fave jams lifted my mood (Yo Maps never misses!)
Woke up fresh - Didn’t press snooze 10 times!
Ate well - That nshima and relish really slapped today
Did something for me - Read, danced, or just took a moment for myself
It’s one of those days. Stress, fake vibes, or just feeling off.
Low Power Mode
Stress levels high - School or home drama had me feeling off. Fake vibes - Negative energy all around.
Completely ceased - Running on little sleep, and it’s showing.
Comparison trap - Scrolling too much and feeling like I’m not enough.
No “me time” - Didn’t get a sec to breathe or do something I love.
Bwalya Penza
info@innersafariquest.com www.innersafariquest.com
TikTok: @herestheteawithauntyb
Instagram: @innersafariquest_ISQ
FaceBook: InnnerSafriQuestISQ
You’re neither up nor downjust cruising. Some good, some meh.
Mixed emotions - Some wins, some losses.
Mild stress - School or home stuff was a bit overwhelming.
Distracted - Scrolled too much and lost track of time.
Feeling blah - No real excitement, just vibes.
Went with the flow - Didn’t stress, but also didn’t thrive.
Just There
Midway
Tired. Drained. Done. The day has been long, and nothing is going right.
Exhausted - No energy left to push through.
Drained
A Recharge ASAP 0%
NEED A RECHARGE? HERE’S HOW!
Low mood - Feeling down, frustrated, or unmotivated. Overwhelmed - Too much happening at once.
Running on empty - No rest, no break.
Emotional drain - Tough convos or just feeling off.
Dead Battery
If your Mood Battery is low, it’s time to recharge. Try these quick boosters: Breathe deeply - Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6. Repeat. Play your fave jam - A music break can change your whole mood. Talk to your person - Call or text a bestie who always gets you. Take a walk - Get some fresh air, stretch, and move your body. Self-care mode - Journal, dance, pray, or just chill.
How’s your Mood Battery today? Check in, recharge, and keep that energy flowing!
Press P y:
SKY's Ultimate Vibe P ylist
By Tina-Mwabi Zulu
Shake Ah by
Tyla
Our girl Tyla’s got you covered with this song, it'll have you pumped up and ready for the day, shake ah wena!
Fire by Mordecai
This song is all vibes and hype for a fun filled day cause you know the energy doesn't lie!
BAD Energy by Mordecai
This is another song by our SKY big brother Mordecai and it's a sure fire way to starting your day!
Upezeko Wina by Mampi
This amazing song will get rid of any sadness and have you literally saying upezeko wina to all the bad energy!
Ati shani, SKY beauties! Did you know that listening to music can help jumpstart your mood to a great day and give you some of the positive energy you need? It’s a quick fix to help you feel happier! Here’s SKY's ultimate vibe playlist that will have you grooving and smiling all day long, tiye Iwe!
I'm That Girl
by Bombshell Grenade And Princess Natasha Chansa (SKY Girls Zed anthem)
The SKY anthem has all the vibes and energy to keep you in your zone and have you feeling like ‘that girl' all day long.
Download our playlist on Spotify to always have a track list that brings the vibes, whatever mood you’re in! What’s your fave song, sis!? Share them with us through our SKY socials @skygirlszed!
Push 2 Start by
Tyla
This song will surely get you grooving and moving!
MONEYfestation by Mukuka
GG
From gracing your screen with her acting skills in Tikula Season 3 to keeping you calm with her beautiful voice, Manifestation is a song by Mukuka GG and it is brilliant for when you're having a low day
Ka Nyimbo by Tio
Nason
A great song by another one of our SKY big brothers! Lizako Ka Nyimbo
SHOW ME by Princess
Natasha Chansa
This is a great heartfelt song by our SKY big sister!
By Elijah Munkombwe
TO YOUR WARDRO BE
Fashion is a way of expressing who you are, how you want the world to see you. But maybe you’re still trying to find yourself or your style. That’s ok too. Experiment or take cues from your faves. In this issue of GTL, we’re showing you just how to do that, so that you can level up your wardrobe and find your own fierce style.
We’re taking inspo from none other than Zendaya.
Let’s be honest, her edgy chic vibe screams effortlessly cool, and who does it better than her? Whether you're stepping out for a chill day with your besties or heading to a cozy movie date, this look has got you covered, sis!
Keziah D onata Ba nda
LET’S BREAK IT DOWN PIECE BY PIECE
Start with long black baggy pants; comfy, stylish, and a total win for any occasion. Pair them with a sleek black tank top which screams simple but bold, and perfect for mixing and matching. And now for the main event: the black leather jacket! Yep, this is the game-changer. Whether it’s real or faux, a leather jacket adds that instant cool-girl energy.
To finish off the look, slide into some chunky boots, platforms, or even your fave sneakers, whatever makes you feel like THAT GIRL! The best part? This whole vibe is about confidence, so wear it your way! Don’t forget to accessorize!
Now, let’s get creative! Take these key pieces and add your own spin. Maybe a pop of color with some bold accessories, a statement bag, or layered jewelry. It’s all about making the look feel authentically you!
So, what are you waiting for? Raid your closet, swap pieces with your SKY bestie, or hit up the shops. With Zendaya as your muse, you're not just recreating a look, you're making it yours. Vala che mwe waimvelela waziba!
What other looks would you like us to recreate?
Let us know on our socials, sis!
By Deborah Malombola
Pre - Period
How to Prep For Your Period
It’s World Menstrual Day on May 28th - so we're here to help you feel your best before and during that time of the month. Let’s talk about tips and tricks to get your body and mind ready for your period, so you can slay even when Aunt Flo shows up!
Essentials: A B Know Your Flow &HydrateNourish
The first step to being period-prepped is understanding your cycle. Download a period tracker app like the Oky app to keep tabs on when your period is coming, no more surprise visits! Knowing your cycle also helps you prepare for PMS (premenstrual syndrome), those emotional and physical symptoms like cramps, mood swings, and bloating!
Girl, water is your bestie! Staying hydrated helps reduce bloating and cramps. Add in some period-friendly foods too.
Think fruits, veggies, whole grains, and less sugary snacks. A cup of ginger or rooibos tea can also calm cramps and relax your body.
C
We know that when you’re feeling crampy, exercise sounds like a nightmare. But light workouts like stretching, yoga, or a walk can actually boost your mood and ease pain. Plus, it's a great way to fight off period fatigue, sis!
D E Move Your Body Pack a Period Kit Self-Care Queen
Be ready anytime, anywhere. Your period kit should have:
Pads/tampons
Wet wipes
Extra underwear
Pain relievers (like Panadol - but check with a pharmacist first!)
Small pack of tissues
Keep it in your bag or locker so you're never caught off guard.
Take care of your mind too! Get 7-8 hours of sleep to fight off fatigue. Heat helps cramps, so a hot water bottle or warm bath can work wonders. And remember - smoking is NOT our thing. It messes with your hormones and can make period symptoms even worse.
Periods can be tough, but with these tips, you’ll feel more in control and ready to handle anything. Got your own period hacks? Share them with us on socials. Let’s break the stigma and support each other!
Dear 14-Year-Old Mwaka Mugala.
I see you, sitting there with a heart full of dreams, questions, and fears. I know you feel like you have to figure everything out, like you need to be strong, like you can’t afford to make mistakes because it seems like there is this silent pressure to do the right thing and be perfect ALL THE TIME. But let me tell you something. I am 33 now, and I’ve learned the hard way that it’s okay not to have all the answers. It’s okay to stumble, to grow slowly, and to not be perfect.
There will be moments ahead that will break your heart. Some people you love deeply will disappoint you, and some of the things you believe in so strongly right now will shift. Sometimes you will feel like you are not good enough or worthy of love. Please, don’t let that scare you because you will also meet people who love you fiercely, and you will discover a strength in yourself that you don’t even know exists yet. It’s all part of the process in this journey we call life.
You will carry wounds, but you will also heal. Life will not always be easy, but you will learn that God is faithful in ways you cannot yet see. Some prayers will be answered quickly, and others will take years but trust me, He is listening. Even in those moments when you feel unseen, He sees you.
You don’t have to be everything for everyone. You don’t have to shrink yourself to fit into spaces where you were never meant to belong. Learn to say no when you need to. Learn to rest. Learn to trust your voice. The opinions of others might feel overwhelming right now, but in time, you will realize that your worth has never been tied to their approval.
There will be battles that shake you immensely and you will feel like giving up, kind of like you feel right now, but you will not be defeated. You will walk through fire and come out stronger. And one day, you will look back and see that everything, the joys, the losses, the moments of doubt, was shaping you into the person you were always meant to become.
So, take a deep breath, my love. Give yourself grace. Laugh often. Cry when you need to. Hold on to your faith. And never stop believing in the beauty of your own journey.
PS: Study extra hard in Grade 12. I know you will get good grades either way but that exam was not things haha. Also, hand in that Biology assignment on Hepatitis. It will haunt you for some weird reason.
Wi th lo ve, Yo ur 33-Year-Old Self
By Jiya Kaninde
Embracing
The Power of Believing in the Impossible
By Bombshell Grenade
In a world that often emphasizes realism and practicality, embracing a "delulu" mindset might seem unconventional. However, for me, it has been a guiding principle. One that has shaped my journey, fueled my ambition, and empowered me to defy the odds.
Personal Experience with Delulu
I remember a time when I pursued an opportunity that seemed like a long shot. Many doubted my chances at being a female award winning rapper, but I chose to believe in myself and my abilities. That moment taught me an invaluable lesson: self-belief can unlock doors that others may perceive as closed. To me, "delulu" isn’t about being naive; it’s about being optimistic, creative, and having confidence. It’s about daring to believe in the impossible and pushing beyond perceived limitations.
The Role of Delulu in My Journey
I’m glad there is a phrase for it now, but early in my career, adopting a "delulu" mindset helped me navigate challenges with resilience. People definitely would have thought I was crazy because of my dreams. Instead of seeing obstacles as setbacks, I viewed them as opportunities for growth. One defining moment was when I pitched an unconventional idea to a client integrating my music into their product branding. Initially, there was skepticism, but my unwavering belief in the idea paid off. It turned into a massive success, reinforcing the power of thinking outside the box.
Practical Application of Delulu
Incorporating a "delulu" mindset into daily life requires intention and practice. I use positive self-talk, visualization, and creative brainstorming to nurture my belief in the impossible. Surrounding myself with supportive individuals who encourage big thinking has also been instrumental. A prime example of this mindset in action was when I took a leap of faith and switched careers. It was a daunting decision, but trusting my instincts led to a rewarding and fulfilling path.
Embracing Delulu in the Public Eye
As a public figure, I’ve encountered criticism and doubt. However, I stay grounded by focusing on my core values and the positive impact I want to make. Not everyone will understand or support my mindset, and that’s okay. I’ve learned to handle judgment by developing a thick skin, embracing constructive feedback, and staying true to myself. The key is to focus on what truly matters and not let external opinions dictate your path.
Even today, "delulu" continues to shape my decision-making and approach to life. It keeps me curious, willing to take calculated risks, and open to new opportunities. Growth is a continuous journey, and maintaining this mindset allows me to keep exploring, learning, and evolving.
Advice for Others
For those skeptical about embracing "delulu," I’d say this: it’s not about being unrealistic, but about unlocking your creative potential and having faith in yourself.
If you’re feeling stuck, or feeling sad or sorry for yourself, start small; practice positive self-talk, and surround yourself with people who uplift you.
Confidence and self-belief are muscles that strengthen with use. Dare to dream big, and don’t let fear hold you back.
At the end of the day, embracing "delulu" is about believing that you are capable of achieving greatness even when the world says otherwise. And sometimes, that belief is all you need to turn dreams into reality.
Bestie Therapy On A Budget
By Bwalya Joyce
Paint and Sip
Have you admired the paint and sip experience and thought it's too costly? Well you can now do it at home. Water paints, a few brushes, plain papers and any drinks of your choice! If you want to switch it up, you could try coloring instead of the paint and sip experience! And remember your artwork doesn’t have to be great, it’s about the experience and bonding with your bestie.
Coffee Date
This can be done from the comfort of your home and y’all can make the coffee yourselves or you can go to any cafe near you and your best friend. Over coffee (or tea, or juice, if that’s your preference), you can have a heartfelt conversation, share stories, or just have a good catch up.
Ifwe ma SKY girlies twalitemwa sana insansa naba nensu,so here is a list of activities you and your SKY bestie can do and yes on a budget! With a budget in mind, you and your bestie can go on any of these dates to have a great time and connect with each other while also improving your mental well-being.
Movie Date
A movie is the best way to chill and talk with your best friend about what's going on in your lives. You could either go to the movie theatre or have the movie date in the comfort of your home, just just get yourselves a lot of snacks and enjoy your movie!
Thrifting Date
You and your bestie can go out thrifting and reconnect with each other while understanding each other's individual fashion sense.The best time to thrift is from 15hours to 17. Check out Kamwala, City Market, DAP or your local market!
Museum Date
The Lusaka Museum is a cool spot for you and your bestie to not only learn a lot about Zambian history, but also a cool spot for you to take great pictures for your socials.
That’s all I had to share, SKY babes! Mosa ibala, mental health is very important and sometimes it’s the bond of sisterhood that lifts us up and helps us recharge our souls. Share with us on our socials how you enjoy spending time with your bestie.
By Yvonne Phiri
As you already know, besties, this year nima kale bwangu.
We won't let negativity sink into our heads and destroy our mental stability. This year, we're all about feeling laka, being positive, and protecting our mental health. And to help you with that, we've decided to share some words of encouragement, motivation, and affirmation from your favorite celebs!
Zendaya
"No matter how bad it gets, the sun will rise again."
Adele
"I think it's really important to look after your mental health, and that's not something you should be ashamed of."
Michelle Obama "Am I good enough? Yes, I am."
Bobby East
"The grind never stops. Stay focused, stay consistent, and the results will follow."
Tio Nason
"I'll keep rising, no matter the storm. My strength is in me, and I'll stay strong."
Oprah Winfrey
"You are responsible for your life. You can't keep blaming somebody else for your dysfunction. Life is really about moving on."
Bombshell
"A mental health quote I believe in and one that deeply resonates with me is ‘ You, alone, are enough, and you have nothing to prove to anyone’. This quote encourages me to focus on my own journey rather than comparing myself to others.”
Kerry Washington
Ariana Grande
"Be gentle with yourself. Healing takes time.”
"Mental health is just as important as physical health, and we all need to take care of ourselves."
Stick these mantras somewhere you can see them every day, to be the encouragement you need. And next time you doubt yourself, gorgeous, just know that this too shall pass, and being true to yourself is the weapon you need to feel confident and happy!
MEET THE COVER GIRLS
By Barbra chanda
SKY girlies, wassup wit’ y’all!? Every issue, we run a cover competition on our socials to find girls from our SKY community to grace the cover of the magazine. For this issue we asked you to share how hard or easy it is for you to express yourselves and why you felt that way. Just by entering the competition, you were expressing yourself, well done to all of you who took part. We loved all your responses, picking the winners was not easy, but here’s who you voted for!
Lanesra Beaunah
Wagwan SKY besties!
My name is Beaunah, I’m 19 years old and I completed my grade 12 in 2023. Being true to myself means being authentically who I am, being real and able to make choices that describe me. What I love about being a SKY girl is that I’m able to interact and meet new people.
When I found out that I won the cover competition I felt over the moon and I was super excited. The shoot experience was breathtaking. The hair and the makeup were very cute. I felt like never washing my face and the clothes I wore were so nice. To be honest I was very nervous but one of the SKY sistas helped me feel confident.
My advice to my fellow SKY sisters is that don’t give up on trying to be a cover girl, if you haven't been one yet. Remember to stay true to yourself and keep doing you, for you. If you haven't taken the pledge yet…girl, what are you waiting for? Take the pledge and join a community of teenage girls embarking on their dreams together.
MyThing NOT Negativity Comparison Pink Watching movies Reading Novels Writing My
Hi SKY fam, so I find it easy to express myself even though it can be tough at times. Why do I easily express myself? Well, dive in with me and find out, la'familia. Firstly, expressing myself shows authenticity. We all know that being a SKY girl is all about staying true to yourself, so by expressing myself, I’m staying true to my thoughts, feelings, and values. Secondly, I love writing, and expressing myself has helped me generate new ideas and stories because that way I’m able to share my passions and find a sense of purpose and satisfaction. When I express myself, whether verbally or in writing, I’m able to stand up for myself and set boundaries that assertively protect my rights and well-being. Last but not least, expressing myself also helps me learn to communicate more effectively with different groups of people and, in turn, act accordingly with the situation at hand.
Lanesra’s Entry
SongSingingWriting Rapping My
MyThing NOT JudgementalPeople Toxicity Drugs
Iris Mwamba
Wassup SKY girls?! My name is Iris, I’m 18 years old and I completed my grade 12 last year.
Being a SKY girl is so amazing and really fun. I get to meet celebrities, make new friends and go for really amazing SKY events.
Being true to myself means that I’m able to stand up for myself and things I love. It also means that I’m able to express myself freely without the fear of being judged.
When I found out that I won the competition I couldn’t believe it and had to check my name three times! It was really a dream come true because I have always dreamt of being in the SKY magazine ever since I joined SKY. The photo-shoot experience was so much fun. I really loved my outfit, the hair and the makeup. I looked stunning!
I felt a bit nervous but the SKY sistas cheered me up and boosted my confidence and I felt like a superstar! My advice to other SKY Girls is to always believe in yourself, stay true to yourself and love yourself!
Iris’s Entry
No, I find it hard to express myself because sometimes I feel like my opinions or ideas won’t be good enough, so I shy away or stay silent. I have a lot of friends, but I don’t go out much because I’m full of negative emotions and insecurities. I think, “What if they don’t like me? What if I’m not on their level?” That’s why I stay indoors, listening to music. People always say hurtful things, and it feels like girls like me, who are struggling with pain and insecurities about our looks and bodies, really need help.
Positivity Singing Dancing My
MyThing NOT Negativity BadPrideEnergy
Grace Geordie Muwana
Hey SKY fam! My name is Grace, I’m 16 years old and I go to Divine Providence Convert School.
I really love being a SKY girl because I’m free to express myself and it’s a safe and girl-friendly space. Being true to myself means embracing my unique identity and passions.
When I found out that I won I was really happy and excited.
The cover shoot experience was a magical thing for me. I was a bit nervous because it was my first time posing in front of a camera but I eventually got over it because of the cheer in the atmosphere and the fun. It was really an amazing experience. My advice to other SKY girls, like me, is to always embrace their uniqueness and always be confident.
Grace’s Entry
No, I don’t find it easy to express myself because I struggle with communication, fear judgment, lack of confidence, and feeling anxious. Past trauma, language barriers, and self-doubt also get in the way. I often worry about being misunderstood, rejected, or criticized, which makes opening up tough. Sometimes, my emotions feel overwhelming, and I find it hard to put them into words. I also hesitate to be vulnerable or exposed. All these things make self-expression feel daunting, leaving me frustrated, isolated, and disconnected.
Well SKY Besties!!!
Continue to stay glued to our social media because the next cover girl might be you! Remember to take the pledge and join the SKY community!
T h e Tr u t h
Stress is real, and we all have our ways of dealing with it. Some people journal, some vibe to their fave playlist, and others take long walks to clear their minds. If you watch movies, you might even believe that smoking will calm the nerves. Spoiler alert! It doesn’t.
About Smoking and Stress. How Smoking Affects Stress
When you smoke, nicotine tricks your brain into releasing feel-good chemicals, tricking your body into thinking it’s relaxed. But that fake calm doesn’t last. Once the nicotine wears off, your body craves more, and suddenly you're caught in a cycle; stressed when you're not smoking, so you smoke again. It’s giving toxic situationship vibes. This is an addiction, sis.
Studies show that smoking increases anxiety and tension. It pushes your heart rate and blood pressure up, so instead of calming you down, it makes you feel more on edge. Plus, smoking messes with your brain’s natural way of handling stress. Meaning it adds to the pressure instead of helping you deal. Basically, it’s the opposite of self-care.
Healthier Ways to Cope
So, what’s the move?
There are way better, safer, ways to handle stress that actually help your mind and body. Try deep breathing or meditation - sounds simple, but it’s a game changer.
Talking to someone you trust, like your bestie, sibling, or a counselor, can help you offload what's stressing you out. If you like to move, exercise works wonders - dance in your room, go for a jog, or follow a quick workout video.
Hobbies are the ultimate stress relievers. Writing, drawing, playing an instrument, or even trying out a new recipe can shift your focus to something positive. And let’s not forget sleep - getting enough rest helps your brain and body reset so you can handle whatever life throws at you.
Find Your Stress Reliever The Truth About Tobacco and Stress
Let ’ s be real, smoking doesn ’ t help with stress. Here ’ s the tea:
Nicotine gives you a short-lived high, but when it wears off, stress levels spike.
Smoking increases anxiety and makes your heart beat faster, adding more pressure.
Over time, it messes with your brain's ability to cope with stress naturally.
Nicotine and tobacco can be found in both smoke and smokeless products such as:
Nsunko Vapes Shisha Zyn
Where You Find Nicotine and Tobacco: Cigarettes Cigars
(and other oral nicotine patches)
Just because they might have flavour, doesn ’ t mean they aren ’ t harmful.
Stress happens, but smoking doesn’t have to be part of how you deal with it. Next time you feel overwhelmed, rememberthere are healthier ways to glow through the chaos. Your mind and body will thank you!
SKY STORIES It Gets Better:
Girls’
Mental Health Stories.
@tionge_x.o
In this feature, our SKY Girls share raw, real stories of how they’ve faced mental health struggles and found their strength. Their journeys prove that even in the darkest moments, healing is possible with the right support. This feature is a reminder that no matter how hard life gets, there’s always a way forward. You can always rise through the storm, SKY babes!
It's hard trying to adjust and fit in a certain environment where nobody gets to see who you really are. My experience in secondary school was really hard. It was hard for me to make friends, because I was judged and criticized by a lot of people which made it hard for me to speak up and even hard for me just to be myself.
But as time went by I found a teen girl community (SKY Girls Zed) where I wasn't judged and I wasn't criticised by people. I feel like through SKY, I've learnt a lot about who I am and what I can do, and I’ve found a safe place and a comfort zone where I was just able to express myself. Thank you so much SKY for being there for girls like me.
@omoge1229
Hi there, SKY fam!
I have suffered from BPD, which is Bipolar Personality Disorder. This is just a mental health condition that causes extreme moodiness. It started when I was depressed because of issues at home, but I have been taking medication for it and I talked to some professionals and doing all this helped me a lot because now, I don't get episodes anymore. My advice to girls who may be going through the same is; don't overthink and your family and friends will always be there for you.
@ona.i_
When I was young, I witnessed my parents fighting. I saw my dad hit his leg on a window, and the pain I felt watching it all happen was overwhelming. Eventually, we had to move out. It was hard carrying that trauma every day. Things got even heavier when I recently found out I have a brother, and with my parents’ divorce, the pain felt unbearable. But I refused to let it define me. Being a SKY Girl from day one has made me even stronger. It taught me that no matter what, I should talk to someone I trust. Having counseling sessions helped me release the pain I’ve been holding onto. What I’ve learned is this: always push yourself, no matter what. Don’t let anything break or define you. Stay happy, keep smiling even when it’s hard, and never be afraid to express yourself. Most importantly, always speak up when you need help.
@__sleepyhope
It all started when I changed schools in 9th grade. I went to a co-school where I was bullied, and that’s when my insecurities began. It messed with me mentally…I couldn’t think straight at school and started failing. It got so bad that I began to self-harm. But one day, a friend showed me a Bible verse…Leviticus 19:27-28. It spoke about self-harm being a sin, and that moment pushed me to repent and ask God for forgiveness. From then on, my grades improved, and I grew closer to God.
@chanda.mayanda
Nobody talks about the mental breakdown that comes with failure…being told to repeat a whole year just for failing a single course is the worst feeling ever.
In 2023, I got admitted to my dream program, Medicine and Surgery. Becoming a doctor has always been my goal, so getting into the highest learning institution in Zambia felt like a dream come true. It was like living in my answered prayers.
My first year was a roller coaster…full of ups and downs. I was caught between being a child and an adult, and it was overwhelming. It was also my first time away from home, so planning meals, taking care of myself, and juggling school stress felt like too much. But with time, I adjusted.
When end-of-year exams came, I did my best and was sure I'd move on to the next year. But when I checked my results, the first thing I saw was "REPEAT YEAR." My heart dropped. Tears just flowed. I felt broken, hurt, and unloved. My parents were out of town, so I cried myself to sleep for weeks, surrounded by people but feeling completely alone. It got so bad that I even questioned God, wondering why He didn't come through for me. But at some point, I realized I couldn't keep crying and doing nothing. I reminded myself that failure is part of growth…I'm not the first person to fail, and I won't be the last. I told my parents I still wanted to continue with Medicine, and they were so supportive.
@ifw_zee
So, I personally have been struggling with my mental health since the 8th grade and I have learnt different ways on how I can handle them. One thing I suggest is DO NOT IGNORE YOUR FEELINGS!
Ignoring your feelings only makes things worse. I personally got better after talking to some of my friends who helped me through my low times and sad moods. If you can't go to anyone, write your feelings down in your journal. That's how I found my love for poetry! So girls, keep going and REMEMBER, YOU ARE LOVED!
To push through, I leaned on positive affirmations, kept my dreams in sight, and prayed for strength. I surrounded myself with family and friends who genuinely loved me. I also picked up hobbies to keep my mind busy because, as they say, an idle mind is the devil's workshop.
So loves, never lose hope because of failure. It’s not the end of the world. The road to success isn’t smooth, but there's always light at the end of the tunnel. Use your failures as stepping stones and remember…delay is not denial. xoxo - nature’s beauty queen.
Your story matters and you’re never alone. If you’ve faced your own battles and want to share, or if you just need someone to talk to, reach out to Lifeline Childline Zambia using 116 (a toll-free number) . Let’s keep lifting each other up, because healing starts with connection. You’re stronger than you think, and your voice could be the light someone else needs!
DIY Hot Chocolate Magic
By Tina-Mwabi Zulu
This one’s for all the chocolate lovers and the girlies with a sweet tooth! Plus it’s the beginning of the cold season so this is definitely a necessary treat.
Here’s an easy hot chocolate recipe for when you want a ka sumfing that will keep you sipping, relaxing and repeating!
1.Milk
Here’s what you’ll need: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
2.Cocoa powder or dark chocolate
3.Tiny marshmallows
4.Caramel essence (optional)
5.Whipped cream (optional but fab)
6.Chocolate (to melt some into the mix and sprinkle on top!)
Here’s what you need to do:
In a small pot, mix one cup of milk with 3 heaped teaspoons of cocoa powder and heat until it’s as hot as you like then pour everything into a mug.(If you prefer, you can also heat the mixture in a mug using a microwave!
Mix in a teaspoon of caramel essence.
Share a pic of your hot chocolate and tag us on socials - we wanna see those yummy chocolatey masterpieces!
Go wild with marshmallows - add a few... or a whole mountain. No one's judging!
Stir in pieces of chocolate until melted (for that extra chocolatey taste!)
Sprinkle on chocolate shavings - the more, the better. It’s your masterpiece!
(Optional) Serve with your favorite biscuits on the side for the perfect snack combo. And voila! Your dreamy, cozy hot cocoa is ready.
This recipe is perfect for a cozy date with yourself, your bestie, or even just your family! Was it yummy and easy to follow?
Top it off with whipped cream - as much or as little as you want! Totally optional, but totally delicious.
A SKY GiRL’S PUZZLeZOneMAZe A
Get ready to put your mind to the test in our Puzzle Zone!
Navigate your way through this tricky maze and find the path to the Smoke-Free logo. It’s time to flex those brain muscles and see if you’ve got what it takes to make it to the finish line!
SKY Hub Re-Launch
Did you attend the re-launch of the SKY Hub? Share your pictures and tag us online!
Check out the highlights from the epic SKY Hub re-launch that happened on February 22nd! We’ve got exclusive pics of the event, featuring the stars from the old and new Tikula cast, Zambia's Sweetheart Michie, and Bombshell who lit up the place. It was a day full of energy, style, and unforgettable moments.
Stack up on the SKY Magazine which is out every two months.
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Stay True Season 7 is here, and it ’ s bringing all the drama, twists, and real talk you ’ ve been missing besties!