Stories
When we share our stories, understanding, empathy and trust grow. Our relationships improve and we get a stronger sense of community. At Heartlines, we’ve seen how story-sharing has impacted and connected thousands of people beyond anything we could have imagined. Here are some of those stories.
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All stories
Black Twitter found my father in 24 hours
Sara-Jayne King tells us about how her mother gave her up for adoption in England and upon her return to South Africa, told everyone she was dead. She also tells us how Black Twitter helped her find her biological father in 24 hours.
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Cecilia's triumph against cancer
Cecilia's battle with cancer was tough. Just when she thought it was over, the cancer recurred, and she had to have a mastectomy.
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David’s love letter
His only connection to his birth mother is a letter, two pieces of gold jewellery, and a teddy bear. Now he wants to know more about the mother who gave him up for adoption as a baby. Read more about David’s love letter
Defying culture
Cultural norms and traditions are beautiful and complex, but in Nellie’s case, they were used as a weapon against her. Read more about Defying culture
I was born into it
From the moment he was born, Judge Albie Sachs’ path as a revolutionary was set. He was named after Albert Nzula, an activist and writer.
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My mother gave me up for adoption
Mmashikwane’s view and experience of family changed radically when she was 10. Hers is a story of learning the value of family and community.
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My life was not worth living
A young woman tells her story of overcoming guilt and finding fresh strength for life.
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Depression made me feel weak
When Anela’s depression became more severe, she thought that suicide was the only option. She recounts the story of how it brought her to a halt, and how, eventually, she survived.
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You have to move on
Telling your story of forgiveness can help you gain freedom and move on with your life – even when the tragedy you have faced is too huge for words.
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Why can't it finally be fair?
Mzamo, Lebogang and Neliswa discuss their experiences of race, racism and micro-aggressions in democratic South Africa.
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I was abandoned at birth
From the time he was abandoned at birth, to when he eventually found his family, Innocent has struggled with belonging and identity.
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