SEEDS OF FREEDOM
a DEEP DIVE with:
Melany Fuma
VUYO OYIYA NETWORK
As we mark Women's month and our anniversary, we are filled with immense gratitude for the support we have received. The #MyCrownVnA Crown Chakra sculpture at VnA Waterfront has captured hearts both locally and internationally, spreading our empowering message far and wide.
Our theme last year, "This is How I Wear My Crown," focused on celebrating how we wear our crowns, connect with our divinity, uplift each other, and foster sisterhood. Your heartfelt responses have fueled our passion and creativity.
This year, as we embrace Women's Month, we are delighted to unveil our powerful new theme under the "Art of Kindness" umbrella: "Seeds of Freedom: Empowering Women Through Self-Sustainability." Inspired by your fantastic feedback, this initiative honours the sacrifices of incredible women who have paved the way for our freedom and independence.
The theme emphasises grounding ourselves in peace, strength, and centeredness to maximise our impact. It’s a celebration of self-care, a vital practice often overlooked by women nurturing others. A reminder we can’t pour from an empty cup, a call to prioritise our well being.
Get ready to be inspired by tales from phenomenal women across diverse backgrounds in our upcoming editions,featuring in-depth articles, captivating video interviews, and delightful high tea hangouts. We are honoured and thrilled to showcase their self-sustaining journeys that will ignite a spark of motivation in everyone who follows along @vuyooyiyanetwork.
Vuyo Oyiya
INTRO DUCTION
It is with great honour to present Melany Fuma from Cape Town, who embodies this year's Women's Month theme. Melany is a dedicated professional with a robust background in film and television, renowned for her advocacy in social justice and inclusivity. Her roles as a moderator, judge, and host at international events demonstrate her ability to foster meaningful dialogue and engage diverse audiences. Inspired by her grandmother and women like Michelle Obama, Melany's story is one of courage, resilience, and self-sustainability. She has carved a remarkable path that not only fuels her own passions but also uplifts those in her community.
SEEDS OF FREEDOM
A Deep Dive with Melany Fuma
What qualities do you admire most about your grandmother?
“I deeply admire her courage to choose an unconventional path in life and her unwavering strength to build and rebuild. These qualities have deeply influenced me, and I'm grateful to have had her as a role model.”
How would you describe the core essence of being a woman?
“As a mother, I believe the core essence of being a woman lies in being a nurturer and a builder.”
Can you share a career standout moment that shaped who you are today?
“Becoming a grant funding evaluator for the National Film and Video Foundation in 2012 was a pivotal moment for me. I couldn't have imagined the impact I would have in shaping talent in our industry and the fulfillment of working with people who ignited a passion in me.”
What inspires you in the work you do?
“I am inspired by the passion of those around me. I am quite a passionate person with strong values and ideas about what work environments should reflect. I hold fiercely unapologetic women in high regard and seek them out in every space I work in.”
Where do you draw your motivation from?
“I draw motivation from many sources, but predominantly from women. Michelle Obama inspired me to give my life a second act and venture boldly into uncharted waters through various career changes. My grandmother remains my strongest source of motivation; her journey from the homelands to create a life for herself and pave the way for her family is immensely inspiring.”
How important is it for women to invest in themselves?
“It's crucial for women to invest in themselves to feel empowered and confident. This enables us to continue the vital work of building our communities.”
How does this self-investment empower WOMEN to support others effectively?
“Investing in oneself sets a powerful example for others. When women actively pursue their goals and well-being, they inspire those around them to do the same. This influence can motivate and encourage others to seek their own growth and development.”
What practices or beliefs keep you grounded and resilient through tough times?
“The belief that I am inherently abundant and that everything I need is always within me keeps me grounded. Recognising my gift from a young age has carried me through many challenges.Whenever I feel disconnected from this belief, I practice self-love. Even during the toughest periods of my life, I always choose to prioritise myself.”
What is the art of kindness to you?
“For me, the art of kindness is about building communities, a task that women undertake daily. As social reproduction often rests on the shoulders of women, we play a key role in creating and sustaining communities. Whether through organising social events, supporting local initiatives, or providing a sense of belonging and connection, our kindness is evident in the communities we build and maintain.”
Can a unified effort among women globally contribute towards healing the world?
“Absolutely! Women have consistently demonstrated that a unified global effort can profoundly impact healing the world. Activists like Nomboniso Gasa, who advocated against gender-based violence in South Africa, exemplify this. Our diverse perspectives and experiences bring unique insights to global challenges. Women often lead justice movements for social change, gender equality, and human rights, amplifying voices and pushing for systemic changes that benefit everyone.”
What makes you grateful and proud of being a woman?
“As a mother, I am grateful for the ability to grow and sustain life. It’s not that being a woman means you must have children, but rather that we have the divine power to bring humans into the world and carry souls earthside. It’s an incredible privilege.”
What unique strengths and qualities do you cherish?
“I cherish my ability to remain calm under intense pressure and my capacity for continuous self-forgiveness.”
What is your motto in life?
Embrace all that life has to offer!
Uncover the remarkable story of Shahida Mausi, a visionary leader making waves in Detroit's cultural scene. From hosting historic events for iconic figures like Tata Nelson Mandela to transforming stadiums into vibrant concert venues, Shahida's work embodies the spirit of courage, resilience and self-sustainability. Get ready to be inspired as Shahida shares her insights on grounding ourselves in peace and making a lasting impact. Stay tuned for this captivating journey—vuyooyiyanetwork!