Blessing Mandemo, a dynamic fitness enthusiast and model, is making waves not just in the gym but also in the realm of social justice.
Using her platform to promote body positivity and combat gender-based violence (GBV), Mandemo is redefining the role of fitness models in advocacy and societal change.
Mandemo’s fitness-based advocacy resonates deeply with the themes of the 16 Days against GBV campaign.
"Fitness is more than building muscle, it’s about building courage, self-worth, and the determination to break free from cycles of violence and oppression," Mandemo shared her story to Standard Style.
Mandemo also leverages the heightened visibility of the 16 Days against GBV campaign to advocate for broader societal change.
Through her social media platforms, she shares and also raises awareness about the systemic issues fuelling GBV, and champions the importance of body positivity as a form of resistance against societal pressures that often perpetuate abuse.
Her posts encourage followers to support local shelters, participate in community advocacy, and push for policies protecting women's rights.
In collaboration with fitness fusion center, Mandemo aligns her activism with the campaign's theme of ending violence in all spaces of society.
She advocates for integrating fitness and well-being into survivor support programmes, emphasising that physical activity can be a healing tool for those recovering from trauma.
“In every push-up, squat, or punch, there’s a message: you are strong, you are capable, and you can take back control,” she said.
By emphasising fitness as a symbol of inner strength, she empowers women to confront not just personal challenges but also societal inequalities.
“Violence strips away agency, but reclaiming your body through fitness can be the first step toward healing,” she said.
At the heart of Mandemo’s advocacy is body positivity. She challenges the harmful beauty standards that often leave women feeling inadequate.
“Every scar, every curve tells a story of survival and strength,” she explained. Her message is particularly impactful for survivors of GBV, who may struggle with self-image and self-worth.
Mandemo believes that combating GBV requires multi-faceted solutions, and her work reflects this philosophy. By merging fitness, advocacy, and community action, she has created a model that inspires individual and collective change.
“Ending GBV is not just about policies; it is about changing mindsets and fostering environments where women feel safe and valued."
As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, Mandemo’s efforts serve as a powerful reminder that advocacy can take many forms.
Her dedication to fitness and body positivity showcases how personal passions can drive meaningful social change, creating a safer, more equitable world for women.
In addition to her fitness sessions, Mandemo uses social media to amplify her advocacy. Her Instagram and facebook posts combine stunning fitness visuals with powerful captions that address issues such as domestic violence, workplace harassment, and the importance of equal rights.
Mandemo’s advocacy journey is deeply rooted in her dual interests in fitness and the performing arts.
Her early experiences in theatre and drama have shaped her understanding of storytelling as a transformative tool.
“Theatre has this incredible ability to connect people to emotions and ideas in ways that words alone cannot tell,” she said.
Her participation in drama productions taught her how to use creative expression to communicate complex social issues, including the pervasive impact of GBV.
Mandemo believes that both fitness and the arts are vital tools for self-expression and healing. While fitness builds physical and mental strength, theatre allows for the exploration of personal and societal narratives.
“In every workout or performance, there’s an opportunity to reclaim agency and tell a story of survival and hope,” she said.
By combining these two passions, Mandemo creates a safe space for women to confront their fears, celebrate their strength, and envision a future free from violence.
Her involvement in theatre also extends to collaborative projects that highlight GBV issues.
For example, she has participated in community plays that explore themes of domestic violence, inequality, and women’s rights.
These performances not only raise awareness but also serve as a call to action, inspiring audiences to take part in advocacy efforts.
Mandemo is redefining what it means to balance passion, profession, and purpose. As a nurse aide at the 24-hour emergency centre in Nketa, Bulawayo, Mandemo navigates an intense work environment, caring for critically ill patients.
Simultaneously, she champions body positivity through fitness, raises awareness about GBV, and nurtures a close-knit family with her supportive husband and child.
After long shifts at the emergency centre, working out helps me recharge and stay focused,” she explained.
Her work as a nurse aide exposes her to the physical and emotional tolls of trauma, reinforcing her GBV advocacy for wellness as a tool for resilience and empowerment.
Her fitness routines are more than a personal journey; they’re a message of empowerment.
Mandemo’s advocacy aligns with her work, showcasing how physical and mental strength can help women reclaim agency in their lives.
She exemplifies how personal passion, professional dedication, and social advocacy can coexist harmoniously.
Her multifaceted life as a nurse aide, fitness enthusiast, body positivity advocate, and mother and wife showcases the importance of resilience, effective time management, and strong support systems.
By intertwining her advocacy with her professional and personal roles, Mandemo not only inspires individual empowerment, but also drives meaningful change in her community.
Her commitment to fighting gender-based violence through initiatives like the 16 Days of Activism, coupled with her involvement in fitness and theatre, highlights the potential for diverse platforms to address critical societal challenges.
Mandemo’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity, offering a blueprint for those seeking to balance multiple responsibilities while making a lasting impact in addressing challenges of GBV.
nRaymond Millagre Langa is a musician, poet, orator, independent researcher and founder of Indebo edutainment Trust. You can follow on Facebook @Millagre Ray Langa, on X you can follow on #Millagre Langa, email — millagrepapito@gmail.com or indebotrust@gmail.com
