The Ovum

Self-confidence, self-love and self-worth are important for any woman regardless of whichever path she is on. But how does a woman transition from being timid, depressed and defeated to becoming a bold, fearless and confident person? In this episode we talk to Anesu Mautsa, the founder of We are Becoming, an initiative centered around encouraging and empowering women to become the most confident, vibrant, and unique version of themselves. She shares her journey to self-discovery, healing and purpose.

Mental illness is a seldom discussed topic in the African context more so in Zimbabwe. We sat down with Tafadzwa, a mental health advocate and discussed the problems faced by our society and possible solutions to removing the stigma from mental illness. 

Every woman will face one challenge or another with sexual reproductive health at some point in her life. But what happens when you experience multiple chronic illnesses from a young age that ultimately disrupt your life plans? Candice shares her experience living with PCOS and endometriosis while fighting infertility. She shares her pain, joys and encouragement for women who like herself, have to face these illnesses daily. 

The toughest experience any woman will ever face is the loss of their child. It is a pain very few people may ever understand. In this episode, Rati shares her own experience navigating the loss of her children, depression, career setbacks, sexual reproductive health issues; and how her entire journey inspired her to write her book "Battle to Blossom" and to create the Kunashe Foundation, an organization which works towards improving the lives of women in Zimbabwe.

Have you ever questioned whether or not your are on the correct path for your life? This may be in your career, your purpose or your overall journey in life. In this episode, Dr. Shamiso Madzivire, a university lecturer, researcher, philanthropist and life coach discusses how evaluating yourself using the S.H.A.P.E. model could help guide the decisions individuals make when it comes to choosing their careers and ultimately what to do for the rest of their lives.

Certain topics in our culture are rarely addressed including topics such as infertility. However, what many do not see on the surface is that the journey to motherhood is often not as easy as it may appear. In this episode Kurayi shares her journey including the ups and downs in her journey to becoming a mother. She shares the inspiration behind the creation of IVF South Africa and some encouragement for women who may be walking a similar path as her. Visit The Ovum on Instagram (@the_ovum) or Facebook (@theovum) to watch the video episode. 

When a woman chooses to get married, her desire is for a successful marriage and happy home. But what happens when you realize that the man who vowed to love and protect you is not who you thought they were? In this episode, Marietta shares her story of how she survived an abusive marriage, heartbreak and how she chose to finally walked away. She shares her journey to healing and how it inspired her to write her book "Tavonga". 

Endometriosis is a female reproductive system disease which currently affects close to 200 million women all around the world and there is no cure for it. In this episode, Tine shares her journey living with endometriosis, going through four surgeries and overcoming the pain and struggles associated with this disease. She shares her inspiration for creating the Endometriosis Support Network, As I Am Foundation and writing her book Turning Pain Into Power. 

Conversations about mental health are a neglected subject within our African communities. Ratidzo shares her experience and how she overcame depression and an eating disorder. She also shares information about some of the work she is now doing through her non-profit organization "Chengetai" to support and educate women on menstrual health.

Our identity and ancestry as Africans has always been very important to us. But as the world changes and as we evolve as women, how do we remain connected with our heritage? How do we raise our daughters to be proud of our roots and where they come from? In this episode, Yeve C. Sibanda shares tips on how we can address these questions and outlines how Philisa Creatives uses multicultural approach to educate children about African languages and our heritage. 

Unexpected events often happen to us when we least expect it. But the choice is often ours, how we react to the hand we are dealt. In this episode, @tendiebabe shares her journey on how finding out she had PCOS led her to discovering her passion for women's health and helping women fight reproductive health diseases; as well as the establishment of her brand, Thealthbae.

Women are constantly in a state of evolving as a result of the dynamic world we live in, life changes and the experiences we go through. In this episode, Karen shares her journey from navigating unemployment, female reproductive health issues, being a small business owner to becoming a housewife and a business professional.

Becoming a parent often brings with it new perspective and a new sense of determination and drive. In this episode Chido shares her journey to becoming a Mother to a handsome boy at a young age, how she juggled both motherhood and her educational goals and how she pivoted her career from being a scientist to public health. 

Behind every woman's smile, lies a story that could inspire another woman. Today our host Rufaro shares her journey as a young single professional Pharmacist and her victory fighting fibroids. 

What is a real woman? That's the question. There are many answers. Karen, Chido, Marilyn and Rufaro discuss what our communities have deemed to be a real woman and how this is different from who they are as well as many African women. 

In this episode, Marilyn shares her journey navigating a busy career as a legal professional whilst battling endometriosis. She shares her pain, her victories and advice for any women who may be going through similar experiences.

In this episode The Ovum introduces herself. The panel of Zimbabwean queens, Karen, Chido, Marilyn and Rufaro meet to give you some background on the Ovum. We tell you a bit about who we are, why we are here and what you can look forward to should you decide to join us on this journey. 

Follow The Ovum on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

Follow @_mamps, @chiidz, @chipamutoro and @miss_manhanzva on the interwebs.

Join the Conversation