Even though 2020 turned out to be one of the most unpredictable and turbulent years in history, many of us still had proud moments and wins in between the chaos that were/are worth celebrating; big or small.
In the spirit of celebrating and acknowledging our wins, we recently had a chat with media personalities Lerato Sengadi, Tshepi Vundla and Sarah Langa - 3 of the 6 individuals that make up the Mumm Squad (G.H. Mumm ambassadors) - about their proudest achievements this year, their biggest lesson(s) learnt and their plans for 2021.
Lerato Sengadi
What was your proudest moment this year?
My proudest moment was winning the Supreme Court of Appeals ruling. This ruling is life changing to not only for me but widows of past, present and future. To have fought that fight for them and myself is something that the history and law books will never forget.
What's the biggest lesson you're walking away with this year?
The biggest lesson is that life really is what you make it. For the first time in modern history, we (every human on the planet) were reduced to the same level. No amount of access, money or privilege could save you from the invisible killer. That sense of uncertainty and fear led to many becoming more spiritually enlightened. And with that comes a sense of compassion and kindness that the world has been lacking for a long time. I’ve always been kind and compassionate, but to be on the receiving end of that is something that has made me an even better person.
Another big lesson was the importance of mental health. For many, 2020 was the first time that they were alone with their thoughts, fears, traumas, battles and demons. Sadly, some were not able to fight and overcome but for many, especially in the black community, mental health became something to be taken seriously. That is the change that we as a people need. You don’t drive your car without taking it for a regular service. Your mind is the same. It needs regular taking care of.
What's in store for you in 2021?
2021 is the year that my destiny will continue to unfold. The year that I continue to change lives. The year blessings rain. The year I continue to be the blueprint. The year we celebrate new beginnings.
Sarah Langa
What was your proudest moment this year?
My proudest moment this year was definitely completing my MBA; it was the greatest investment I made for myself even thought the journey was quite tough. I faced a lot of challenges because of the pandemic and I often had to make sacrifices that, at times, I felt weren't worth it but I continued to soldier on and today I've got my MBA!
What's the biggest lesson you're walking away with this year?
The biggest lesson I learnt this year is that it’s important to have fun. So often I would feel so guilty for having fun, whether it’s going out with friends, vacations or even just switching off. I felt the pressure of using my twenties to build myself and my career; I never really allowed myself to enjoy life.
It hit me this year that I haven't really enjoyed my twenties. Instead, I’ve overwhelmed myself with crazy responsibilities and guilt-tripped myself for the little pockets of fun and enjoyment. In 2021, I will be turning those little pockets into big pockets of fun and celebration; turning those stressful experience into happy experiences; rewriting my history, and living a life that is still purpose driven but with a new purpose to dance, sing, laugh, play and celebrate.
What's in store for you in 2021?
I see 2021 as the year of fruition. For the past 5 years I've been working really hard towards getting all the necessary tools in place to live my dream and I think 2021 will be the year that I see it come to life. I am very passionate about women and education, so I want to see myself being very active in that space and working on an ecosystem that can encourage, groom and motivate people that share the same values as me.
Tshepi Vundla
What was your proudest moment this year and why?
Definitely getting the G.H. Mumm gig. Such a gig had always been on my list and getting it before turning 30 was everything and more.
What's the biggest lesson you're walking away with this year?
Trusting myself more and not having to rely on help; realising that I am capable of doing anything & everything I want to do. I've also learnt that saving money is very important, the beginning of lockdown was tough because I was not sure if I would still be able to earn an income, but fortunately brands were able to see that the industry can still move during lockdown.
What's in store for you in 2021?
I don’t like announcing my moves before they happen. I believe in keeping things to myself ( and loved ones) & people seeing the work when it’s out.
