South African HIV activist, podcaster, speaker, and TV host Nozibele Mayaba recently attended the 10th Edition of the Mother’s Day Celebration hosted by Break Your Shell at Mozambik Restaurant in Mbabane, Eswatini. The event focused on women celebrating women, aligning with Mayaba's mission to promote sisterhood and restore women affected by stigma. She highlighted the importance of platforms that promote sisterhood and womanhood, providing examples for girls and women to emulate.
Mayaba shared her personal journey, revealing she was born and raised in Port Elizabeth and now resides in Johannesburg with her family. In 2013, during a wellness day at her workplace, she was tested for HIV and received a positive diagnosis at the age of 21. Despite initial challenges, Mayaba decided to go public with her status, sharing a message of hope and restoration through her faith. Her story has inspired many, showcasing the impact of stigma and the need for supportive communities.
The activist emphasized that stigma around HIV still exists in South Africa and globally, even in 2026. Mayaba's experience demonstrates that with the right support and mindset, individuals can overcome challenges and find restoration. Her husband, who is HIV-negative, and her son, born after her diagnosis, are testaments to the power of hope and resilience. Mayaba's message of restoration and empowerment resonated with the audience at the Mother’s Day Celebration.
Break Your Shell Founder and Lead Executive Phiwi Mabuza introduced Mayaba as one of the headline speakers for the 2027 10th anniversary conference. Mabuza explained that the movement, which started with 58 women at the Mbabane Country Club, has grown significantly since its launch in 2018. The initiative has evolved from Women In Worship, a platform that brought together female gospel artists, to a broader movement focused on empowerment, mentorship, and creating forums that deepen connections.
The movement has expanded beyond Eswatini, with international attention gained in 2024 when eight women from South Africa attended the conference. This year, two buses arrived from South Africa for the conference at Esibayeni Lodge, demonstrating the growing impact of Break Your Shell. Mabuza attributed this growth to collaboration with Mita, a South African women’s movement, which has opened opportunities for Eswatini speakers in South Africa.
Mayaba also announced that her devotional book, "Positively Me," based on scripture, will be launched outside South Africa for the first time in Eswatini on Sunday. The book is a testament to her journey and commitment to spreading a message of hope and restoration. Meanwhile, Mabuza revealed that the 2027 edition will be the 10th anniversary and the biggest celebration to date, with a focus on local attendance and a theme of 'We Are Fully Persuaded.'
The theme for the upcoming season, 'We Are Fully Persuaded,' is based on Romans 4:21 and speaks to women being fully convinced that God has the power to do what He has promised in their lives. Mabuza emphasized the importance of spiritual empowerment as a foundation for balanced living, enabling women to rise to their destined positions. The movement continues to emphasize the importance of sisterhood and community in overcoming challenges and achieving personal growth.
Key points
- Sisterhood plays a critical role in restoring women affected by stigma.
- Nozibele Mayaba's personal journey with HIV highlights the ongoing stigma and the importance of supportive communities.
- Break Your Shell's 10th anniversary conference in 2027 aims to be the biggest celebration to date, focusing on local attendance and spiritual empowerment.
