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.
Do you have a story that everyone needs to hear? We want to hear it! Share your story here.
All stories
"Dance chose me"
"Dance chose me. I guess I realised what I am here on earth for. This is my purpose. This is what I need to do. This is what I am called for." These are the words of Musa Motha, a disabled dancer who recently got one of the biggest standing ovations in the history of Britain's Got Talent.
Grace and compassion – the cornerstones in my mental health journey
Akona did not let an attempted carjacking and psychotic episode derail her from being the mother her son deserves.
Read moreLearning to walk again after a traumatic accident
Sphiwe's accident left permanent scars on her legs that drove her into hiding from the public, but now she walks with confidence again.
Read moreA tale of reconciliation in Tshwane
Here's how What's Your Story? was used to start an ongoing process of reconciliation between church leaders in Tshwane.
Sharing her story to heal the wounds of her past
She has no regrets about her past despite a childhood filled with abuse and trauma. Read moreForeign nationals talk about their struggles in finding a home away from home
The Sister Mura Foundation is providing medical, financial, and emotional support while upskilling foreign nationals living with HIV/AIDS in SA. Read moreA dream deferred leads to a life of leadership and success
Olefile Masangane has achieved what he thought would be impossible.
Read moreStorytelling breaks stereotypes about criminals
Father Babychan Arackathara has been working as a chaplain in SA’s prisons for over 20 years. He is an advocate of the human rights of prisoners and restorative justice, bringing healing to offenders as well as victims and their families.
Read moreA story of resilience and love, above all else
Aspiring film producer Lyndall Stephenson on her What's Your Story? experience in SA.
Read moreHealing the legacy of apartheid in Lenasia
Russel Abrahams, a pastor in Lenasia, is using stories to help bridge divides in his community and a neighbouring area.
Read moreThe story of Preston Jongbloed
As a young boy growing up in Heideveld on the Cape Flats, Preston Jongbloed dreamed about becoming a professional football player and flying on a plane.
Read moreLearning and loving through friendship
Justine and Ivy have decades between them, but their bond is made strong by mutual respect and love.
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