I realised without COVID-19, I wouldn’t have written this. What the enemy meant for evil, God will use for good. I rediscovered my voice, my boldness and courage.
My younger self was not afraid to pursue things much bigger than myself. I conceptualised one of the biggest cultural festivals in the country, the Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE) and was the youngest team member in the relaunching of SABC Television to align the broadcaster with our new democratic republic. I was fearless.
As the SABC Head of African Renaissance, I was responsible for building relationships with the rest of Africa. I remember wondering: how am I going to achieve all this? The SABC, at that time, didn’t have any links to the rest of the continent. But courage and boldness led me to achieve exactly that. It has also led me to become the first Black Associate Publisher of Elle & Elle Deco in Africa.
But where did the boldness and courage go? Did I even realise it was gone? Fortunately, it wasn’t. It just laid dormant until COVID-19 raised its head inside my body. COVID-19 brought out the boldness and the courage to talk about my experiences and the subsequent harassment and stigmatisation that it brought. I became a voice of hope.
For that, I am grateful. I am vigorously in pursuit of new things. I have the determination to live my life with a distinct purpose. Fear has no place. Faith and purpose are taking the lead.
My recent COVID-19 journey has inspired me once again to be fearless and I decided to launch the Awoke Global Foundation. I realised a think tank was needed to help other COVID-19 patients, families and COVID-19 survivors.
The foundation will bring together psychologists, trauma specialists, doctors, lawyers and those affected by COVID-19 to provide the necessary support and guidance. Those who have had to deal with the trauma, harassment, victimisation and mental health implications of living with COVID-19 will be able to reach out and seek assistance. We also aim to run education and awareness campaigns.
COVID-19 will pass, but the effects will remain for years to come. It is up to each of us to do what we can and share our stories to make the road ahead easier to navigate for all.
If you are in need of support, you can contact Buli at [email protected]
Written by: Buli Maliza; President: Awoke Global Foundation