I am Shudu: Finding my Voice, Knowing my Strength

by Shudufhadzo Musida

I am Shudu, Finding my voice, knowing my strength tells Shudu’s story of her as a happy, laughing child, dancing across the village and her relationship with both her grandmothers who helped raise her.

It then speaks to the next phase of her life, school in Mpumalanga and Johannesburg living with her mother where she was viewed as a foreigner and was bullied. The story also tells of her special friendships and how this got her through her school years and the fairy tale ending of becoming Miss South Africa.

The book covers the themes of bullying, identity, bravery, forgiveness, displaced families, and the bond of friendships. Shudu is a role model to all children, showing that anyone can succeed, particularly in how she inspires young girls to both celebrate and empower themselves. Told in Shudu’s words, this coming-of-age story is a triumph.

With beautiful illustrations from the award-winning Chantelle and Burgen Thorne, this book will inspire all 6 to 10 year olds.

98 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

Shudufhadzo Musida (born 18 July 1996) is a South African model and beauty pageant titleholder who was crowned Miss South Africa 2020. She is the first title holder from the province of Limpopo and whose first language is Tshivenda (Venda), and was selected to represent South Africa in Miss World 2021. Musida is the first bald woman to win Miss South Africa. Musida is a dedicated advocate and spokeswoman for mental health awareness and empowering women and children.

Reviews

[Marisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

it is never easy to deal with bullying as a young child. I liked the way she found her voice and how she inspires others