South African influencer Mihlali Ndamase has said she has embarked on a journey of healing after her tumultuous relationship with businessman Leeroy Sidambe, acknowledging that she played a big part in the abusive dynamic that the couple shared.
The violence between the couple made the news recently, after Mihlali posted pictured of her injured face on Instagram, claiming that it was the Sidambe’s handiwork.
Meanwhile the businessman claimed that Ndamase had tried to take his life but he was only saved by the intervention of his son.
In an open letter posted as a video on her YouTube page, Ndamase said that the abusive nature of her relationship with Sidambe had led to a torment and torture.
“It is with great vulnerability I admit I was involved in a toxic relationship. This relationship started off verbally and emotionally harmful and matters quickly escalated to it being physically harmful.
“I, unlike others, take full accountability for my involvement in the toxic dynamic. One can only be quiet for so long after tolerating gaslighting, aggression, emotional abuse, manipulation, obsessive behaviour and control tactics employed by an individual.
“Tactics used to distort my perception of love which led me down a path of pain and torment. The scars of this experience run deep and the trauma continues to echo in my personal life and in my business,” she said.
Ndamase said she was now focused on healing from the deep-sited trauma of the relationship, while she also wanted to encourage other victims to speak out.
“Such cases can be complex, escalate gradually over time, and are difficult for some to understand, specially if they have no personal experience. However, that does not discredit or invalidate my story as I have lived it.
“It is imperative for us to educate ourselves on the nature of emotional abuse, and gender-based violence and the devastating impact it has on families, individuals and communities.
“Despite the darkness that has clouded my past I am filled with hope and determination to embark on a journey of healing.
“I’m committed to seeking the support and resources necessary to get the help I need to reclaim my sense of dignity and self-worth through my healing journey, I hope to inspire others to speak out, seek help and break free from any toxic environment,” she said.
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