Former Miss SA Shudufhadzo Musida honoured for her mental health work

by Unathi Balele

Congratulations are in order as Miss South Africa 2020, Shudufhadzo Musida has been honoured twice for her work in the mental health space. 

The Limpopo born star was recognised by the United Nations and Glamour magazine for her spectacular work towards mental health. 

The Goodwill Ambassador took to Instagram to share her double honour with her supporters. 

She thanked Glamour Magazine in a lengthy post for recognising her as a mental health advocate and for the work she has done in her village and humanity. 

“I’ve always been a person of very few words because I had always been the girl at the back of the class hiding and never wanting to be seen. Answering my calling to be of service to both my village and humanity has led me here to be a mental health advocate. Thank you for always seeing me, hearing me, and in as much as every Monday was spent with me trying to remind you that you’re not alone and that it’s okay to not be okay , thank you for showing me that this girl that considered herself a loner is no longer a loner. I am now part of a bigger community geared towards change and a better world,” the 26-year-old said. 

In partnership with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) – The United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, Shudufhadzo was honoured and appointed as their new Regional Champion for East and Southern Africa. 

“I will serve as a regional voice, will play an instrumental role in the advocacy of universal access to sexual and reproductive health as well as the mental health of women and girls in the East and Southern Africa (ESA) region,” she said.

In a lengthy Instagram post, she expressed how daunting the daily mental health challenges are and admitted that the path ahead may not be easy. However, she is determined and ready to take on the role. 

In February 2021, mental health advocate launched her online mental health initiative called #MindfulMondays. During these online sessions she speaks to various experts on a diverse range of topics related to the subject of mental health.

Shudu is also a published author. Her book called Shudu Finds Her Magic was published in September 2021 and is available in six different languages.