Embracing the beauty of change with Kayise Ngqula, Leleti Khumalo, and Chantel Jade Struwig

Change is inevitable, It's the spark that ignites growth, transformation, and self-discovery. But what happens when that change is visibly etched on your skin? The constant reminders and whispered judgments can be overwhelming.

Through the stories of three extraordinary women, Dove challenges societal beauty standards-inviting us to rethink what beauty truly means. Actress Leleti Khumalo bravely shares her journey with vitiligo, proving that true beauty lies beyond skin deep. Presenter and actress Kayise Ngqula opens up about her car accident, showing us that scars can be badges of strength. Chantel Jade Struwig, born with a remarkable birthmark, shares her story of self-acceptance, reminding us that uniqueness is beauty.

United in their individuality these women, once "othered" by society, now uplift each other, embracing their stories with pride. Their bond is a powerful reminder that beauty is diverse, ever-changing, and uniquely ours.

Leleti Khumalo

 Legendary Actress and Philanthropist

GLAMOUR: This is the first time you openly speak about your journey with vitiligo, why did you think it was time to share your story?

Leleti Khumalo: Dove made it easy to share my story, they said they are looking for beauty that defies standards, they want authentic beauty, not the typical ideal and that deeply resonated with me, and it felt safe for me to finally share my journey. This also comes with the aim to inspire and teach other people about skin conditions, specifically vitiligo.

G: Can you take us back to your first diagnosis or the first time you noticed a change in your body skin, and how did that make you feel?

LK: It started with small patches, and at first, I thought it was the end of me. I visited a GP, and surprisingly, they said it could be treated. So, I began treatment, which involved intense light therapy. The process was painful—the light would burn my skin, leaving it bright red and tender. I had to go twice a week, and I remember thinking I should stop. The patches kept returning every few days, and the pain didn’t seem worth it. Eventually, I realised that the treatment wasn’t actually curing anything—it was more about business than healing.

In the midst of it all, I began to seriously consider having children. My gynecologist told me that the vitiligo would likely spread all over my body once I became pregnant and asked if I was ready for that. I said yes, not truly understanding what lay ahead.

G: Did you feel emotionally prepared to cope with the significant physical changes?

LK: I thought I was ready, but I definitely wasn’t. After becoming pregnant with my twins, it took about three to four months before the condition started to worsen. I remember telling my husband that I didn’t want to see anyone. I resigned from work, stopped attending events, and just wanted to stay at home and adjust to this new body, this skin condition that was taking over. It was a difficult time, but it was a journey I had to go through for self-acceptance.

G: Do you think your appearance impacted your ability to secure jobs after returning to work?

LK: Yes, this industry can be harsh. When it was time to return to work, I went to audition after audition, but nothing was happening. I knew it was because of the changes in my skin. Sometimes, I’d coverup with layers of makeup. I remember having a heart-to-heart conversation with my husband, pouring out all my insecurities. I asked him if he still loved me unconditionally or if he was staying with me out of obligation, especially now that we had children. And he gave me a wake-up call. He reassured me of his love and reminded me that my condition wasn’t debilitating. He pointed out that I was lucky to still have my health and abilities. His words helped me accept and embrace my new reality. That’s when I got my first callback.

I decided to take a bold step and approach the producers. I asked if I could play my character without hiding my skin condition, and together, we created a storyline around vitiligo, breaking the misconception that it’s a curse. That was when true self-acceptance began. Honestly, it’s still a struggle. Even now, I catch glimpses of my reflection and see the young Leleti I once was, not the person I am today. It’s a day-by-day healing process, and I’m still learning to be okay with it.

G:Has your own experience with vitiligo altered your definition of beauty?

LK: The diagnosis sparked a beauty revolution within me. I now celebrate the beauty of complexities in black skin and, despite occasional self-doubt, I'm reminded of my worth through constant affirmations, The other day my son said “Mama you are so special” and I asked why and he said because there is no one quite like you, and that was such a beautiful moment to remind me of my journey and accept myself for who I am and set an example for the next generation. I am deeply concerned about children who face bullying due to vitiligo. As someone who understands their struggles, I feel compelled to support and protect these young ones.

G: What do you think is the biggest misunderstanding about vitiligo that needs to be addressed?

LK: Often, people fear or reject what they don't understand. They assume there's something inherently wrong with it. But I've learned to be patient and educate others about my vitiligo, helping them see beyond their initial reactions

G: What lessons learned would you share with your younger self, navigating the ups and downs of vitiligo?

Embrace change, for it brings wisdom and growth. Don't fear the unknown; view it as an opportunity for self-discovery and evolution and after all change is beautiful.

Chantel Jade Struwig

Digital Content Creator 

GLAMOUR: Let's start with your roots. Where did you grow up, and what was your childhood experience like?

Chantel Jade Struwig: I've spent my entire life in Pretoria, and it's been an incredible journey. I have an older sister who's seven years my senior, and we're incredibly close - she's my best friend and confidante. People often say I'm a mini version of her, and I take that as a compliment. Growing up in the pre-social media era was a blessing. We spent our days playing outside, exploring, and experiencing life without the pressure of online scrutiny. My parents were always supportive and loving, encouraging me to pursue my passions.

What I appreciate most about my upbringing is that my parents never sheltered me from the world. They treated me like any other child, allowing me to explore, learn, and grow. This approach has shaped me into the person I am today - confident, curious, and open to new experiences. Family has always been a vital part of my life, and I feel grateful for the love and guidance my parents and sister have provided

G:Take us back to the moment you noticed the birthmark on your face. What was going through your mind, and how did you feel?

CJS: There was never a certain moment where I looked in the mirror and asked “What is this” but I always knew that I was different because whenever I went out with my family there would be stares and people pointing at me. In primary school, I barely noticed the birthmark's impact. But as I entered adolescence, relationships and social dynamics became more complex. I began to doubt my beauty and compared myself to my peers and felt inadequate. Despite the challenges, my parents unwavering support and encouragement helped me navigate these struggles.

They never made me feel ashamed or hid me from the world. Instead, they instilled confidence and resilience in me. My personality always shone through, allowing people to see beyond my physical differences. I wish I had a dramatic story about overcoming bullying, but that wasn't my experience. Instead, I was blessed with a supportive network that accepted me for who I am. I genuinely believe I was meant to have this birthmark. It's helped me become more empathetic and understanding, but it wasn't always easy. I had to confront and overcome self-doubt, learning to focus on my inner qualities and strengths.

G: Can you tell us about your fitness journey? What motivated you to start, and how has it impacted your life

CJS: I have always been athletic in school, which sparked my natural affinity for fitness. However, it wasn't until after my first serious relationship ended that I truly discovered my passion for working out. After the breakup, I felt lost and uncertain about my identity and direction. Instead of turning to partying or drinking, I found solace in the gym. It was as if a higher power guided me there, saying, "This is where you need to be" I spent hours each day, sometimes three to four hours, teaching myself fitness routines from scratch. Listening to uplifting music and worship songs, I focused on healing my mental health, not just physical transformation. Ironically, my physical progress became a bonus, a cherry on top of my emotional growth. The gym became my sanctuary, where I worked through heartbreak and self-discovery

G: What gets you out of bed, even when things get tough? What's your secret to staying motivated?

CJS: Growing up, we weren’t all that rich, I would say we were a little bit on the poor side. I attended a prestigious high school where most of my peers came from affluent backgrounds, making me acutely aware of our economic differences. Constantly worrying about money. But I'm determined to break the cycle of financial insecurity for myself and my future family. I never want my children to experience the stress and uncertainty of worrying about money. So, I think that's a big reason why I get out of bed. I've got big aspirations and a lifestyle to match. Plus, hitting the gym keeps me disciplined and focused on my long-term goals. I am doing this for my future self – she deserves to live her best life

G:Take us through your journey with the Dove beauty campaign. What sparked the partnership, and what was the initial conversation like with the Dove team

CJS: I've had the pleasure of working with Dove on and off since 2019. We did an amazing master brand campaign together, and now, after a couple of years apart, I'm back! It's crazy to think about how far we've come. Being part of this huge campaign feels like a full-circle moment – it's truly an honour.

G: Can you share your experience working alongside the talented Leleti Khumalo and Kayise Ngqula on the campaign?

CJS: Working with Leleti Khumalo and Kayise Ngqula has been an incredible experience. Sharing the stage and campaign with them is truly humbling. Initially, I wasn't familiar with their work, given our different fields, but getting to know them has been amazing. Their kindness, humility, and approachability have left me in awe. I've even become a fan, stalking their Instagram pages! It's surreal to think they consider me on their level, especially given their impressive achievements. I've shared my excitement with my boyfriend, marvelling at how they've welcomed me into their circle. It's heartening to have such supportive and inspiring individuals rooting for me. They're not only talented but also beautiful inside and out. Their down-to-earth nature makes them effortless to talk to. This collaboration has been a dream come true

G: How do you define beauty?

CJS: Beauty is about embracing individuality. It's accepting and celebrating your unique features, rather than trying to conform to societal standards. Just completely stepping into your own

G: What lessons would you share with your younger self about self-acceptance, beauty, and navigating criticism

CJS: That's a tough one. I would honestly just tell her to hang in there. Just hang in there, girl. You don't know what's about to come. You can't even fathom where you're about to go.

KAYISE NGQULA

Tv Presenter and Actress

GLAMOUR: Can you share the story of how you were selected for the Dove beauty campaign, and what factors influenced your decision to participate?

Kayise Ngqula: We had been in talks with the agency representing the brand, aligning our values and vision, especially for the Kayise brand and the platforms I manage, like my online talk show and podcast, After Dark with Kayise. which embodies authenticity, personal growth, and human connection, sharing real people's stories, struggles, and triumphs to foster community and unity.

I was deeply humbled to partner with Dove, a brand dedicated to driving meaningful impact and sparking essential conversations. Society's perceptions are evolving, and we're reframing discussions around beauty to prioritise purpose and inclusivity. Throughout my life's transformations, I've remained true to myself within the entertainment industry. Dove's mission resonates with me, as they champion inclusivity and self-acceptance, ensuring everyone has a place.

G: Could you tell us about the car accident that left you with scars ? How has it impacted your daily life and routines?

KN: After the car accident, I faced so many challenges. The scars made me question my self-worth, especially when it came to my body. I was grateful that my face was untouched and that most of the scars eventually faded, but for a long time, I believed certain things—like wearing swimsuits or crop tops—were no longer for me. My journey toward self-acceptance, however, has been truly transformative. After undergoing emergency surgery and battling internal bleeding, I had to shift my mindset completely. Prioritising my mental well-being helped me rebuild my confidence. Today, I’m proud to share my story. I’ve come a long way—from hiding my body to embracing it. I believe that everyone is here for a reason, and maybe mine is to affirm that young girl with a scar or the mother with a C-section mark from bringing life into the world. My story is one of survival, and I wear it with immense pride.

G:Can you share your mental healing journey after the accident? How did you come to terms with the scars that weren't a part of your life before?

KN: It was incredibly tough. I remember waking up the day after the surgery to find a long incision on my stomach, held together with staples. I couldn’t help but think, What happened to me? I didn’t fully understand the extent of my injuries since I had no memory of the accident. At first, I wanted to hide away, ashamed of my stomach. I hated myself. Even simple things like getting undressed felt overwhelming. I questioned my beauty and self-worth, and I feared intimacy and relationships. But therapy changed everything for me. Embracing my scars helped me see myself in a new light. I allowed the pain to guide me through the healing process. And when I reached the point where I realised I didn’t want to feel that way anymore, I took every bit of help I could get. From therapists and life coaches to spiritual guidance from priests, I worked on reviving myself both mentally and spiritually. I learned to be patient with my journey, accepting that healing takes time

G: Have you faced challenges in the media industry due to your appearance, especially after the car accident?

KN: Absolutely. I’ve never fit the traditional mold of a magazine cover girl. I’ve always been a bit curvier, but that never stopped me from loving and accepting my body. Growing up, my mom constantly affirmed my beauty, instilling confidence in me from a young age. She would remind me that I was beautiful, and I’d confidently respond, “I know I am.”

As I stepped into mainstream television, I felt accepted for who I was—beyond just my physical appearance. My personality, talent, and charisma have always been my greatest strengths. But as life changed—becoming a wife and a mother—my body transformed, too. Despite those changes ,my sense of self-worth has never wavered. I’ve learned to embrace my uniqueness and the beauty that comes with it. My journey has shown me that true beauty isn’t just about how we look—it’s about who we are.

G: Was there a pivotal moment where you fully started letting go and embracing the new you?

KN: I remember wearing a crop top for the first time at a friend's birthday. I took a picture, posted it, and immediately thought, "Oh my God, what am I even doing?" I just knew I was going to trend. But at that moment, I felt beautiful—truly beautiful—for the first time since the accident. Then there was the famous swimwear moment during my holiday in Zanzibar. It took me a year to find the courage to post that picture. I was terrified of the mockery that might follow because social media can be harsh, even cruel. When I finally posted it, I immediately switched off my social media, afraid to see the reactions. But when I came back, I was met with an overwhelming outpouring of love. Not a single negative comment. That moment reassured me that even those of us in the public eye have insecurities, and it’s those vulnerabilities that truly connect us.

G: Your mother seems to play a significant role in your life. Could you tell us more about your relationship with her?

KN: My mother always says she was born to be a mother, and it’s been her purpose in life. She still cares for me and my sibling, though in different ways now that we're older. She’s incredibly involved in our lives and often asks, “If I’m being too much, tell me.” She’s a loving, attentive mother who wants to understand what we’re going through. She’s faced her own challenges, and we've been there to support her through them.

As a grandmother to my son, it’s even more beautiful to witness. Raising a child with autism has been a journey, and my mom accepted the diagnosis long before I did. After losing his dad, it took me time to process everything, but my mom embraced him from the start, loving him for who he is ,not for who she thought he should be.

G: What has your son taught you about yourself?

KN: He taught me that I can handle anything I set my mind to, and that I can push myself further than I ever thought possible. Raising a non-verbal child brings out a side of you that you didn’t know existed. You have to stretch your mind, thinking for him and understanding how he feels, even before he tries to express it. It’s emotional when I think about it because some of the challenges God puts us through are never meant to harm us. I’m so proud to be Zuko’s mom—raising a superhuman who is here to change the world in his own unique way. My journey through motherhood is truly encouraging. Doing it on my own can be tough, but I’m taking it one day at a time.

G:How has your definition of beauty evolved over the years?

For me, beauty has evolved to symbolize freedom—the freedom to be myself, to become whoever I aspire to be, and to pursue my passions without limitations. The changing beauty standards are truly inspiring, as seen in this cover feature with two remarkable women who boldly embrace their unique physical traits. What resonates with me is that, unlike my own scars, theirs are visible for all to see. Yet, we are united in our journey to celebrate the raw beauty of nature, unfiltered and untouched by society’s expectations. Dove's commitment to championing inclusive beauty resonates deeply, and I'm grateful for this opportunity to share my story alongside these incredible women.