MABAYAZI: Stories that inspire, resilience that echoes.

Welcome to MABAYAZI, the space where real people share their raw, unfiltered stories of triumph, hope, and unrelenting resilience. This segment is all about highlighting journeys that inspire us to keep going no matter what life throws our way.

In this December edition, we shine the spotlight on the extraordinary story of Tshepiso Nompumelelo Maseti who has faced life’s toughest battles with unmatched courage. Diagnosed with multiple severe illnesses in her early 20s, she has not only fought for her health but also pursued her dreams with a determination that will leave you in awe. Her name is not just a name; it’s a symbol of hope and perseverance.

Here’s her journey, in her own words: "If someone had told me that I'd be a regular patient at the hospital in my early 20s, I wouldn't have believed them. At just 24 years old, I have already been diagnosed with a lung infection, heart failure, depression, and a spinal infection.

Since 2021, my life has not been the same. In May 2021, I was diagnosed with a lung infection while completing my final year at university. I was so sick that everyone around me tried to convince me to give up on school and focus on my health. But because I believe in God's work, I refused to give up. I wrote all my tests and assignments from my hospital bed. By God’s grace, I passed with distinctions and graduated.

Ever since then, I’ve been constantly unwell. Yet, for every hospital visit, something in me felt compelled to either upgrade my studies or learn something new. Fast forward to March 2023: I graduated with my postgraduate qualification. I was so excited because things were finally looking up. I then decided to apply for an online short course that would take six months to complete, with an expected finish date of November 2023.

As the days got closer to my finishing date, I was admitted to the hospital once again, and to my surprise, I was diagnosed with heart failure. I was so confused, upset, and angry at God because I couldn’t understand, “Why me?” Two days after being admitted, I had to write my last paper, and once again, I did it from my hospital bed.

One thing about me - I refuse to give up! Two weeks after being hospitalized, I received an email confirming that I had passed all my modules and earned my certificate. I was so excited: a girl like me, fighting for her life while upgrading her education! Like they always say, for every dark season, there will be light at the end of the tunnel.

In January 2024, I vowed that this year I needed to get a job. Little did I know, God had different plans for me. In March 2024, after signing a work contract, I got terribly sick and had to resign. I was devastated, constantly asking God, “Why am I always the sick girl?” I questioned Him so much that I completely lost faith and hope.

In May 2024, I decided to enrol in another short course. I was accepted and proceeded with my studies. By July 2024, I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. I know, right? My story is one of a kind.

I was so ready to give up on everything, including my dream of wearing that big, red graduation gown for my PhD. But while in the hospital again, I found myself motivated to push through my short course. Something happens to me every time I’m in the hospital—a burning desire to do more and more ignites within me.

In October 2024, I was awarded my certificate for the online course.

As of now, I hold the following qualifications under my name:

National Diploma in Ecotourism Management
Postgraduate in Ecotourism Management
Certificate in Social Media Marketing
Certificate in Data Science and Analytics
Certificate in Digital Business Skills
Certificate in Trauma Management
I am currently pursuing my TEFL qualification.

My story is long, and I wish I could share even more, but I hope what I’ve shared will motivate someone out there to keep going no matter how dark life may seem. God’s plans for your life are valid. Trust yourself and believe that you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.

As I write this, I am scheduled for another hospital admission for my spinal infection. Recently, I was also accepted to study coding and programming engineering, starting in January 2025.

Being so sick at such a young age has been an eye-opener for me. My faith has been tested the most, but I have never given up, nor have I lost my confidence. Everything I set out to do, I did. Regardless of how much my health has challenged me, I know that one day I’ll stand tall and be proud of how far I’ve come".

Her story reminds us of all that the human spirit is truly indomitable. Even in the face of debilitating illnesses, she has continued to defy the odds, accomplishing milestones that many of us could only dream of under far fewer challenging circumstances.

As we close off this year with her incredible journey, let her life serve as a beacon of hope. Challenges may come, but with faith, resilience, and an unshakable belief in yourself, MABAYAZI reminds us that the light at the end of the tunnel is always within reach.