By Ephreeda Banda
On 19 September 2023, the Office for Equity and Institutional Culture and the Student Representative Council (SRC), hosted a remarkable event at the Oppidan Dining Hall. This event featured a distinguished guest speaker, Landa Mabenge, the author of "Becoming Him: A Trans Memoir of Triumph," who shared his invaluable experiences on the path to self-acceptance and empowerment.
Accepting one's identity, particularly those who fall within the LGBTQI+ community, can be a daunting and challenging journey. It often begins with a deep exploration of one's feelings and emotions, and for many, it involves overcoming societal prejudices and norms that may not fully understand or embrace diverse identities. This journey is unique to each individual, marked by self-discovery, courage, and resilience.
And, in a world that continues to evolve and challenge societal norms, the LGBTQI+ community stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals who have chosen to embrace their true selves. The process of accepting one's identity within this community is a personal and often transformative journey. On 19 September 2023, the Student Representative Council (SRC), hosted a remarkable event at the Oppidan Dining Hall. This event featured a distinguished guest speaker, Landa Mabenge, the author of "Becoming Him: A Trans Memoir of Triumph," who shared his invaluable experiences on the path to self-acceptance and empowerment.
Landa Mabenge, the guest speaker at the event, was in the presence of Advocate Rahim, Abigail, a transgender PhD candidate in the Zoology department, and Nomteto Moleko, a spiritual healer, is a remarkable individual whose journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance serves as an inspiration to countless others. His memoir, "Becoming Him: A Trans Memoir of Triumph," chronicles his life as a transgender man in South Africa, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth that accompanied his journey.
“As the first transgender person in SA to convince a medical aid to pay for his gender-confirming surgery, we saw Landa Mabenge as the perfect guest speaker for this event as he has experienced all the challenges and issues that comes with being transgender in South Africa. We are hoping to touch at least two or three souls with this event and just create a safe and open space for people to be who they most comfortably identify as,” said Ibabale Sobekwa, the SRC Transformation and Activism Councillor.
Mabenge's presence at the event was a powerful reminder of the importance of sharing personal experiences within the LGBTQI+ community. His narrative not only provided valuable insights but also served as a beacon of hope for those who may still be navigating the path to self-acceptance. “I did not have the language or the comprehension of what I was feeling or going through but I knew that the person I was, was not right and I knew what I wanted to be. For me, the social script of the blue streak and pink streak did not make sense and at the age of 7. I realised that how my body was evolving in the pink streak, did not quite make sense and I felt very uncomfortable in my body,” said Mabenge. By openly discussing his journey, Mabenge encouraged attendees to embrace their own identities and recognise the beauty in their uniqueness.
The SRC played a pivotal role in organising this event. It showcased the Council's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment. Such initiatives are crucial in creating safe spaces where individuals can explore their identities without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
Therefore, events like these are invaluable in fostering understanding, empathy, and support for individuals as they navigate this path. The journey to self-acceptance within the LGBTQI+ community is a deeply personal and transformative experience. “Hearing someone’s story is an eye-opener and puts you in the right direction. I was also able to be in the journey I am in right now by watching YouTube videos of other transgender women and this gave me the push I needed,” said PhD candidate, Abigail.
From this, we can say that these initiatives and awareness campaigns provide a platform for open dialogue, education, and empathy-building, all of which are essential in breaking down the barriers that individuals within the LGBTQI+ community often face.
Mabenge's passion does not just end with him being an author, as he is also an educator and a consultant who educates and creates awareness on what it means to be transgender/gender diverse. His presence and his inspiring memoir remind us that embracing one's true identity is not only an act of courage but a triumph of the human spirit. It is a journey worth celebrating, and it is events like these that help light the way for others on their own path to self-acceptance.
“When you have had privilege in any space of your life, like I have had when it comes to my journey, I have chosen to use it as a launching pad, as a way to pave forward, to help, educate and create awareness, especially for healthcare providers who are going to be the ones who need to give care to transgender/gender diverse individuals,” concluded Mabenge.