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A 55-year-old nurse from a rural Eastern Cape village has opened her heart about the trauma she survived, the long road to healing, and her decision to write a book so that other rape survivors can understand their emotions and reclaim their power. Her story shows the emotional, spiritual, and psychological journey many women face after violence, especially in rural areas where access to proper health services remains limited.
Before the incident, Nomana Ntshakaza lived a purposeful and vibrant life. She worked as a nurse for five years and took part in youth, women, and children’s health programmes. Growing up in a rural village shaped her compassion and commitment to service. She says her mother and grandmothers taught her discipline, courage, and resilience, values that guided her into the health sector.
Her desire to serve rural communities grew stronger when she saw how far people travelled to access care. She witnessed families walking long distances because nearby clinics were scarce. That reality strengthened her dedication to helping vulnerable patients.
Her life changed after she was raped inside a clinic, a place she trusted. Speaking about rape is painful, and many survivors remain silent out of fear or shame. But Ntshakaza chose to speak out. She says sharing her story helped her understand her emotions, behaviour, and triggers. Opening up allowed her to reclaim her power and begin healing. She hopes her bravery will inspire other survivors to seek help early.
After the attack, she searched for books written by survivors but found nothing that reflected her experience. She then wrote her own. Her first book, Life Can Change in a Moment, grew from a personal need to understand her trauma. She later released a revised edition, which expands on her healing journey. Writing took seven years, and she describes it as painful but healing.
She says sharing her story early and being supported at Sinawe Thuthuzela Care Centre helped her slowly find her way back to herself. She urges survivors to speak to someone they trust, seek help, and remember that rape is never their fault. Her hope is that women learn they can rise from any challenge. Readers who would like to purchase her books may contact her via her Facebook page, Nomana Talks.
