Siyabonga Zuma (South Africa)

Author: Siyabonga Zuma

For 12 years, I kept my diabetes a secret because  I felt like the “odd one out” among my peers. I was ashamed and struggled for acceptance. Since “going public” with my diabetes in 2020, I’ve found it easier to manage my condition. Joining the BCV network gave me a voice and empowered me to build connections in the diabetes community. As a BCV, I want to help others living with diabetes, especially children,  so they don’t experience what I did. Today, as a diabetes advocate, I will use my voice to end diabetes stigma and raise awareness about the condition.

“For 12 years, I kept my diabetes a secret because  I felt like the "odd one out" among my peers. I was ashamed and struggled for acceptance. As a BCV, I want to help others living with diabetes, especially children,  so they don't experience what I did.”