When we asked bloggers to put themselves forward for my giveaway, launched as a thank you to all who have been part of Tribe Tesi, we weren’t just looking for pretty posts, we were looking for heart, commitment and an understanding of what it means to build an honest online presence. Out of all the entries, Siwemukele Moyo caught our eye straight away. She followed every detail to the letter, shared her story with warmth and intention, and reminded us exactly why we do this work: to spotlight real people whose voices deserve to be heard.
To celebrate her well-deserved win, we sat down with Siwemukele for a quick chat to hear about her blogging journey in her own words, what inspires her, and what she hopes to share with the world. Here’s what she had to say.
Let’s start at the beginning. What inspired you to start blogging, and what was the moment that made you say, “I want to take this seriously”?
Siwemukele: I remembered how creative in writing I was when I was growing up and how I had not been active in that regard. I also have an interest in vlogging and doing podcasts. When a friend told me about Teakisi, highlighting the gifts and talents I have and how blogging will be good for me, I decided it is time for me to learn and start blogging. Blogging will allow me to express myself in various ways as well with the hope that my stories will touch, transform and impact someone out there
You’ve just completed a professional branding session with Tribe Tesi, how has that shifted the way you see yourself and your work?
Siwemukele: The session further enhanced my image of myself, my content as a brand. It is important to put in the work and give myself time to do an excellent job out of the love of it. It is better to have a few platforms where I can post consistently for effectiveness and impact.
As someone who’s passionate about growing as a writer and creative, what topics or themes are closest to your heart when you sit down to write?
Siwemukele: As an individual I am multifaceted and also I get to meet and work with diverse people. Personally I like writing about things that make an impact in the whole life of a person and can impact all the aspects of their life. I like stories of strength resilience and triumph, living a full life which I define as living for what you were created for through discovering, unleashing and maximising on all your potential as an individual.
You won a year of WordPress premium hosting, what are your hopes for your blog over the next year, and how do you plan to use this opportunity?
Siwemukele: I hope to be more professional in blogging. This opportunity will enable me to unlock premium features which will give those who visit and/or subscribe to my blog an opportunity to have the best experience in navigating it.
In a world full of voices online, how do you stay grounded in your unique perspective and avoid the trap of comparison?
Siwemukele: I know who I am and what I am about.
Tell us about a piece of writing or a post you’ve created that you’re really proud of – what did it mean to you, and why do you think it resonated?
Siwemukele: Am proud of all my posts including future ones. However, I’ll have to pick ” Redlections” (https://lifetothefullestzoe.wordpress.com/2024/11/26/reflections/ ). It goes down to the root of why I and others exist and what difference we can make which is part of living to the fullest. Reflections simplifies living life as one gets to introspect concerning different things.
Outside of blogging, what other creative or professional paths are you exploring or hoping to grow into?
Siwemukele: Am working on being a coach. I have interests in life, business, wellness and possibly relationship coaching. I am also honing my beading and millinery skills. Another thing is that I am working on better communication skills both in public speaking and writing as I am a preacher and a teacher of the Word of God. I am currently enrolled at Hope Bible Academy and also a lecturer as well as the Dean of Students.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an emerging voice, and how have you pushed through them?
Siwemukele: There are different, negative voices that say do not bother, you cannot do it and the like. I remind myself why I decided to do what I do in the first place. Also, I know that I may not be able to please everyone. Instead of worrying over what I cannot change, I would rather do what I can and give it my best for the sake of those who need it. I also have like-minded friends I reach out to.
If you could collaborate with any creator, platform, or brand to tell a story, who would it be, and what would the message be?
Siwemukele: That’s a tough one to answer. There are many people out there doing great, wonderful inspirational work. I being multifaceted follow several of them. I would like to work with as many as I can. However, Teakisi has exposed me to blogging. In the spirit of reciprocation, I would like to work with Salha and Uncle B in areas where our minds meet.
What does “taking up space” look like for you, in this season of your life, and what advice would you give to others who are just beginning to find their voice?
Siwemukele: Taking up space for me means being bold, confident in asserting who I am and what I stand for. To those who are beginning to find their voice I say do not retreat into the shell. Come out. Get trained, equipped and mentored. Teakisi Creative Residency is one such platform for you to do so. Tribe Tesi, Afro Bloggers, Heritage and Flair are great communities too.
Many thanks for the opportunity.
