As a child, Ms Zikhali experienced discrimination that left a lasting impact on her self-esteem. In Grade 3, she was publicly mocked by a teacher because of her dark complexion, and this led her to speak openly about colourism.
“I had never been targeted for my skin colour in primary school before, and hearing that from an authority figure took a piece of my innocence away,” she says.
The experience continued into high school, where she attended an all-girls boarding school. During her first year, she was repeatedly bullied because of her appearance and was made to feel that her complexion made her less attractive.
“I grew to hate being dark. I could not comprehend why my complexion made me a target,” she says.
Despite the emotional challenges, Ms Zikhali remained committed to her studies. With the support of her classmates in the 2010 Grade 8A3 class, she found the confidence to stand up for herself and embrace her identity.
That turning point inspired her to adopt the name Melanin, which has since become synonymous with her advocacy work.
Today, through her social media platform, she shares her experiences while encouraging dark-skinned women to embrace their identity and recognise the value of education as a tool for personal growth and empowerment.
Her academic journey has developed into a commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development, particularly in rural and under-resourced communities.
Ms Zikhali uses her social media platforms to encourage dark-skinned women to embrace their identity.
As a PhD candidate in Development Studies at UMP, Ms Zikhali is focused on translating research into practical development strategies that can improve people's lives.
Her studies have also created opportunities beyond the classroom.
Through the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator, she represented the University at the Intra Africa 2063 competition in Egypt. The experience marked her first international trip and culminated in a significant achievement when she and her team secured first place.
“Walking onto that international stage, I realised that the boundaries of my upbringing could no longer contain the magnitude of my destiny,” she says.
Behind her academic achievements is a story shaped by perseverance and the sacrifices of her family, particularly her mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for her children.
“My mother poured everything she had into us. She gave us her time, her energy and her youth, ensuring that we had what we needed.”
Today, Ms Zikhali continues to build on that foundation through her research, advocacy and entrepreneurship. Her journey reflects the transformative role of education and her determination to use her experiences to create meaningful change for others.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.