E9: Speak up, even when your voice shakes...

In this episode, I share a very vulnerable personal story, probably one of the most vulnerable stories I've shared on the podcast to date.As this episode is released on the Women For Change G20 Shutdown here in South Africa (21 November), I felt called to add my voice to the conversation around gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, which continues to impact women every single day. I also share some of the shocking statistics, numbers we cannot ignore.I open up about a relationship I was in during my early twenties, the signs I ignored, the fear I lived with, and the moment I knew I had to leave. I speak about the control, the threats, the hypervigilance that followed, and the long shadow an abusive relationship can cast, even years after you walk away.This is not an easy story for me to tell. But I believe in the power of speaking up and the power of storytelling for healing, advocacy, and connection.If my story reaches even one woman who needs to hear it, then sharing it is worth it.If you're currently in a relationship that feels unsafe or controlling, I know leaving is never simple, but you deserve safety, love, and a life where your voice is yours. Please reach out to ⁠Women for Change⁠. We cannot stay silent. We cannot look away. Coz if not now, then when?If this episode resonated with you, share it with ​a friend​, hit subscribe, and leave a review. It means the world to me, and it helps other midlife women find this space. Invitation to come join ⁠⁠⁠The Midlife Experiment⁠⁠⁠, my free Facebook community for women redefining what this chapter looks and feels like.​Sending love x