A journey from shameful to shameless
Lerato has decided to use what appears to be her gift and help others deal with their shame.
Lerato Moletsane from Weltevreden Park did not have the most exciting childhood. Tragedy struck very early in her life while growing up in Dobsonville, Soweto.
Lerato’s father killed himself when she was about to turn three years old, and her niece also committed suicide four years ago.
As a result of all the tragedy in Lerato’s life, she suffered from depression. Now at the age of 47, she has realised that getting help for shame begins with identifying shameful emotions.
She reached out to others by sharing her story at a public event in 2017 where she spoke about how toxic her shame used to be to her mental health, how it led her to suffer from bulimia and to feel that she was not good enough.
The courageous Lerato said, “I have always wanted to help people but I did not know how to do it. The relief I felt after sharing my story and the feedback I got have been the most rewarding for me.
“People always tell me that they feel good after talking to me and that I am a good listener and non-judgemental.”
Lerato has decided to use what appears to be her gift and help others deal with their shame.
“People must talk about their problems. I know it has taken me a long time but as they say, it is never too late,” concluded Lerato.
On 29 February she will be giving her first talk titled Talk Outlet, ShamefulLess. “I want people to feel the power of giving up their shame. Shame does not serve any purpose, instead it may cause you to harm yourself or others,” Lerato said.
