Dear 2024, 

What a year you have been, filled with lessons, growth, and breakthroughs that have stretched me in ways I never imagined. Being named one of the Influential Women of the Year is both humbling and affirming, as this year has been all about owning my space and redefining what thriving looks like as a Black woman entrepreneur and creator. 

I have come to believe that life will give you exactly what you need when you need it most. The way my year started feels worlds apart from where I am now. At the beginning of 2024, I found myself battling mental exhaustion, so much so that my doctor signed me off work. I was unhappy, and deep down, I knew I wanted more for myself. Those six weeks away gave me the clarity I had not felt in years. For the first time, I made a decision for myself, one that did not require anyone’s approval. I chose to lean into my purpose and pursue personal development coaching seriously while creating my “baby,” EvolveHer. 

EvolveHer is more than just a business. It is a purpose-driven community. Through transformative workshops, mentorship, and creative wellness experiences, I aim to empower women to express themselves, connect meaningfully, and thrive in every aspect of their lives. 

But following my purpose did not come without its challenges. Self-doubt was ever-present, whispering fears of failure, judgement, and financial insecurity. What kept me going was a simple truth: failure is only a lesson. Fully embracing this idea stripped failure of its power over me. So what if I fail? At least I will have tried, and in trying, I will gain experience, courage, and pride. 

One of the greatest lessons I have learned this year is the value of authenticity, especially in a world so loud and crowded. I have realised that no matter how saturated a space may seem, my voice matters. My perspective is needed. And even in small ways, I can make a difference. Impact is not about having millions of followers or grand gestures. It is about touching lives meaningfully. Knowing that my work inspires someone, whether through my words, my content, or the spaces I create, fills me with purpose. 

Another powerful reminder this year has been this: My self-image is the ceiling to my success. How I see myself dictates how I show up in the world. If I see myself as capable, confident, and worthy, I will create success. True confidence comes from within, and it ripples outward into every opportunity and experience. 

Balancing my roles as a mother, a coach, and a creator has stretched me in beautiful ways. It has required organisation, intention, and a lot of grace, for myself and others. Some days I have struggled to find balance, but I am learning. This journey is not about perfection. It is about progress. 

As I write this, I realise how much gratitude I have for the woman I have become and the lessons I have learned. I will leave you with this: 

To any woman reading this, know that thriving is not about perfection but about courage. The courage to own your space unapologetically, to rise after challenges, and to allow yourself to grow in ways you never thought possible. Here’s to thriving with grace, intention, and joy. 

With love, 

Nothando

Keep up with Nothando: EvolveHer | Instagram

@theselfcarequeen_