Online Reporter
Faith Ndlovu, Zimpapers Arts & Entertainment Hub
IN a world where social media is often dominated by curated perfection, Alleta Nonhlanhla Nyathi stands out as a breath of fresh air.
The Bulawayo-based content creator, influencer, beauty consultant and marketing graduate is unapologetically herself, using her platform to promote authenticity, self-love and empowerment.
“I started content creation as a way of de-stressing. I was going through a lot and I needed something to take my mind off things. Little did I know that this hobby would blossom into a full-fledged passion, earning me a loyal following and recognition as a leading voice in the Bulawayo content creation scene,” she said in an exclusive interview.
Alleta’s journey into content creation was motivated by a desire to cope with stress and anxiety.
“Through my content, I hope one day to address the topic of mental health and wellness, because at some point in my life, I suffered from depression. I want to use my platform to raise awareness about mental health and encourage others to prioritise their well-being. By sharing my own experiences and struggles, I hope to create a safe space for others to open up and share their own stories.”
Her willingness to openly discuss her struggles with mental health has created a supportive community where her audience can share their experiences and find solidarity.
A key driving force behind Alleta’s content is her deep desire to empower others and promote, especially, up-and-coming businesses.
“I’m passionate about seeing other people become better versions of themselves. I love meeting someone and watching them grow and improve after spending time with me. I believe everyone has the potential to achieve greatness and I want to use my platform to inspire and motivate others to pursue their passions and dreams.”
This passion for empowerment shines through in the topics she addresses on her platform, ranging from mental health and wellness to marriage, self-care and entrepreneurship.
“I want to help people realise that they can be married, have children and still pursue their passions.”
Her commitment to promoting empowerment and self-love has earned her a loyal following and sets her apart from other content creators. With over 20 000 followers on her TikTok account, Alleta is particularly passionate about exploring the complexities of marriage and womanhood.
“Most women get married and lose themselves in their marriages, forgetting to care for themselves. People often ask me, ‘Are you married? Do you have children? You don’t look married. You look so young. How can you be married and not look like you’re married?”
Alleta hopes to challenge societal expectations of what it means to be a married woman.
“I want to address the question of how a married woman should look. How should a married woman dress, carry herself, and present herself? Just because a woman is married doesn’t mean she has to look older or scruffy. You can be married and still look good.”
Alongside her discussions on marriage and womanhood, she is also passionate about supporting local talent and entrepreneurship.
“I hope to also address the idea of supporting local businesses in Bulawayo. It’s important to uplift one another.
When you’re doing something in Bulawayo, people really support you.”
She is also dedicated to giving back to her community, working closely with Pusheka Girl, an organisation dedicated to ending period poverty. This way, she helps raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene as well as supports initiatives that provide sanitary products to underprivileged girls and women.
As a wife and mother of two, Alleta is proving that women can balance their personal and professional lives while still pursuing their passions.
“I’m a wife, mother and a ‘daughter’ of Prophet Bruce Edwards,” she proudly shares.
“My faith and family are very important to me and I strive to reflect those values in my content.”
Alleta has had the opportunity to collaborate with several brands, including Signature Suits, Supermed Pharmacy, Vig Glams, Fitness Hub and Ja Dijo Restaurant. These collaborations have not only helped establish her as a reputable influencer but have also allowed her to promote local businesses and talent.
In an industry where conformity and imitation can be tempting, Alleta remains committed to staying true to herself.
“I don’t create content to gain followers or be famous. I do it because it’s fun and it allows me to express myself authentically.”
This has earned her a loyal following and has set her apart from other content creators.
“My content is authentic and I don’t have to copy others to feel relevant. I create content based on what I want, how I feel and my own values.”
Her hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was crowned Content Creator of the Year at the African Influencer Awards.
But, her journey has not been without challenges. She has faced criticism and skepticism from those who do not understand the value of content creation.
“People made me feel bad about doing content. They said it was for younger people, single people or not for Christians. However, I refused to let these negative comments hold me back. Content creation is for everyone, regardless of age, marital status, or faith. I’m living proof that you can be a Christian, a wife, a mother and still pursue your passions.”
