‘My scars are my truth’

Scars have the power to tell a story, and they are there for a lifetime to represent the physical and at times emotional trauma that a person has been through.

For Umzinto local and former radio presenter Kwanele Madondo (24), his life changed drastically when he was severely burnt in a house fire about a decade ago. He overcame the ordeal, but was never able to accept the way he looked after his body was scarred, and he often covered the scars using hats, gloves and jackets.

“I was only in Grade 7 at the time and felt ashamed of how I looked because of all my scars, and I was scarred emotionally for years,” he said.

“My family helped me get through the tough times, and I was able to eventually build confidence and accept who I was because my scars are my truth and they represent who I am – a strong individual who was able to overcome a lot.”

The young man has now taken it upon himself to help heal the world by sharing his personal story of acceptance in the hope of encouraging others to share similar stories, and motivate them to be proud of who they are.
In order to do this, Kwanele has put together a team and started to shoot a reality show, ‘The Scars’. Through this talk show, he will share his personal story and thereafter conduct interviews with others battling to accept themselves.

“This show is for people who are ashamed of what they look like, scarred emotionally or are just in a bad space and need someone to talk to,” said Kwanele.

“Sharing stories like this can help get rid of the weight off your shoulders and I will be there to comfort and motivate our storytellers.”

The aim is to show love and support to people in need, not just in the mid-South Coast community, but throughout the world as the show will be accessible to all via social media platforms including YouTube.
Shooting for this reality show begins locally this week. Kwanele believes that this initiative will develop into something bigger and he plans to also do motivational talks at schools on acceptance and show learners that support is always at hand.

To those who would like to be on the reality show and seek help but are to scared to, Kwanele said that they have the opportunity to remain anonymous.

“It’s okay to be worried and scared of all that you’ve been through in life, but it’s not okay to be ashamed of who you are. And if you do feel this way about yourself, I will help you change that perspective.”
Should you wish to get in contact with Kwanele, he can be reached on 063 1234042.

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