Sibu Mabena

I have these rich aunties that have just decided to like me and force me to stay close to them. It is a privilege I don’t take for granted 💕

One of them, @amanda.dambuza brought us together for a beautiful evening celebrating Leading With Grace, an anthology curated by @wandambanjwa_khumalo ft. the stories of 32 remarkable women. And cos 1 celebration clearly wasn’t enough, Sis Amanda also chose the occasion to unveil her stunning jewellery collection with @nungudiamonds. This was an evening that brought together storytelling, entrepreneurship, creativity and the celebration of women who are building things that will outlive them. ❤️

What I found particularly special about the book is that it was created in honour of Nokwanda’s late mother, Mama Grace, with proceeds going towards the Grace Leadership Fellowship. Please do get yourself a copy of Leading With Grace at www.soulspeaks.co.za and follow the @soulspeaks_za and @leadingwithgracesa pages for some inspiration 🤍

Having lost my own mom in 2025, I find myself paying a lot more attention to the ways people choose to remember and honour the angels they’ve gained. There’s something so beautiful about building something that allows a person’s legacy to continue doing good in the world, long after they’re gone.

I also think there’s something quite powerful about 32 women, each with their own story, experiences, successes and challenges, coming together to contribute to something that will hopefully make the journey a little easier for those who come after them.

One of my favourite things to come out of this book has been the community it created. We’ve had a WhatsApp group since the book’s launch and I can confidently say that my net worth has increased considerably just by being in it. 😂

I left the evening feeling grateful. For the company, the conversations, the people who have gone before us and the privilege of learning from people doing such meaningful work.

Thank you @vastlysage_amandadambuza for being such gracious and generous hosts, and to Nungu Diamonds and @clarinssouthafrica for the very lovely gifts. We were thoroughly spoiled! ❤️