Strong, Courageous, Mother!

Four amazing mothers tell us how they raise their children.

- Amanda Mtuli & Fundiswa Nkwanyana

Grace Mantjiu (38) is BONA beauty editor and single mom. She lives in Noordheuwel, Krugersdorp, with her sons Keamogetswe (18) and Reitumetse Mantjiu (13).

BALANCING ACT 

I love my sons, and watching them grow up has been a joy. We don’t follow any routine because they can do a lot of things for themselves – get ready for school and make their own food. I did these things when they were younger, including bathing them in the morning and preparing their school lunch boxes. Back then, my biggest challenge was my working hours. I relied on my single mom friends to pick them up from school. But, now that they are older, I don’t worry about such things anymore. I sometimes even arrive home from work and find a cooked dinner! They are independent, and like doing their own thing. But, we spend most weekends together doing various activities.

SUPPORT STRUCTURE 

Raising children alone is not easy. But, I grew up with my dad, James Mantjiu, and he did it by himself after my mom died. He taught me strength. Watching him take care of me and my brother on his own over the years encouraged me to be the best mom to my boys. I am teaching them the same quality. It was frustrating at first because I had no idea what I was doing. But, at the end of the day you just figure it out and find ways that work for you. Their dad is now involved in their lives, and that helps. I had nannies when my kids were very young until I felt that they were old enough to do things for themselves. I also have two friends who are single mothers, and when we get together, we talk about everything. Having such a strong support system encourages me to be the best version of myself, for me and my children.