Empowering Change for LGBTQi student: How Higher Health’s Support Transformed Othandiweyo Mkula’s Journey
At Higher Health, our mission extends beyond education and advocacy; it's about making tangible differences in the lives of individuals who face profound personal challenges. One such story is that of Othandiweyo Mkula, a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) student in Office Administration at King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College, Ngcobo campus, Eastern Cape. Othandiweyo’s journey with Higher Health is a testament to the impact of our holistic support services.
A Journey of Resilience and Transformation
Othandiweyo joined Higher Health at the beginning of 2023 as a Peer Educator, bringing his enthusiasm and commitment to promoting awareness and support within his community. His involvement in various awareness activities, organized in collaboration with Higher Health’s Registered counsellor (Ms. S. Mpofu), highlighted his dedication. However, his role also triggered the need for personal intervention, leading him to seek one-on-one therapy.
Facing the Shadows of the Past
Despite his active involvement, Othandiweyo had been grappling with significant personal challenges. His journey included battling depression in 2021, stemming from severe trauma related to his sexuality. He endured a horrific incident where he was dragged by a car and faced violence simply because of who he is. The harsh realities of living as a gay man in a township that struggled with acceptance added to his emotional burden. The compounded effects of these experiences led him to alcohol as a coping mechanism, further complicating his path forward.
A New Beginning with Professional Support
In September 2023, Othandiweyo approached our registered counsellor as a walk-in client, expressing his concerns about his alcohol use and doubts about his future. Initially discouraged, he feared that his ambitions of becoming a social media influencer and establishing a nonprofit organization were beyond reach. He believed that his hometown, Ngcobo, was not a place where dreams could be realized.
Our registered counsellor employed a Client-Centered Approach to build a supportive therapeutic environment, encouraging Othandiweyo to explore his thoughts and emotions openly. By integrating Cognitive and Developmental Theories, the counsellor addressed his negative self-perceptions and encouraged positive changes. This approach, coupled with psychoeducation on treatment adherence and the impacts of alcohol abuse, set the stage for Othandiweyo’s transformation.
The introduction of the “My Journey” journal proved instrumental. This tool helped him articulate his emotions and aspirations, providing direction and motivation. Through only two sessions, noticeable improvements were evident. Othandiweyo began setting and pursuing his goals with renewed confidence and reported a significant decrease in alcohol consumption.
A Beacon of Hope and Advocacy
Othandiweyo’s newfound confidence and progress underscore the profound impact of Higher Health’s psychosocial services. He has not only experienced personal growth but has also become a beacon of support for his peers. By identifying students in need and referring them to our services, Othandiweyo is now contributing to the well-being of others, embodying the spirit of community and support that Higher Health champions.
Othandiweyo’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience within each individual and the transformative power of dedicated support. His story illustrates how, with the right resources and encouragement, challenges can be met with strength and hope, paving the way for a brighter future. Higher Health remains committed to providing support and empowerment, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their dreams.