Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida has used a cyberbullying incident she experienced to assist youth against the double-edged social media sword.
Musida’s name was dragged into the mud on social media platforms after sharing bikini pictures, which received several comments claiming that she was focused on images that show off her body instead of showing off her duty as the reigning Miss South Africa of the time.
This time, she vows that while she faced this heart-wrenching bullying incident, she would not allow more girls and young people to go through the same.
Musida said being a young girl growing up in Ha-Masia village in Vembe district, Limpopo, exposed her to some of the struggles faced by many women and young people in under-developed regions of South Africa.
She looked forward to winning Miss SA pageant and using the opportunity and attention to fight gender inequality, gender-based violence, lack of access to health resources, and mental health issues – all of which she had witnessed in her village.
The new United Nations Population Fund regional champion for sexual and reproductive health and rights said it was about time that the rights of children in the digital era be considered.
She said this includes exploring avenues that guarantee their safety, well-being, and empowerment in the online realm.
“As we champion their digital rights, let us not overlook the intersection with other pressing issues. While the digital landscape can offer knowledge and resources for sexual and reproductive health, it also exposes children to misinformation, cyberbullying and toxic relationships. These perils heighten the risk of early or unintended pregnancies.
“By addressing children’s rights in the digital environment, we empower them to make informed choices. Education is a fundamental right for African children, and the internet serves as an invaluable tool for their growth and learning. Yet, we must not overlook their vulnerability to online threats. Let us forge a safe digital space, fostering their exploration and education without fear,” said Musida.
Musida said she found that at least 440 million African children would be transversing the virtual universe by 2025, and this called for an urgent safeguard of children’s rights.
She said this youth month, people should strive for an internet that protects girls, allowing girls to have their say and agency over their bodies, lives and future. She said girls faced online abuse, and this should be put to an end.
“In addition, comprehensive sexuality education stands as a critical pillar in preventing teen pregnancy. Shockingly, in many African countries, less that 40% of young women and men access such education, leaving them uninformed and vulnerable to negative consequences.
“However, online spaces possess the power to shape adolescents’ attitudes, behaviours and perceptions regarding relationships and sexuality. Platforms providing accurate, age-appropriate information can positively impact their sexual and reproductive health outcomes, delaying sexual activity and equipping them with knowledge of available health services,” said Musida.
Also Read: Levern José withdraws from Miss SA following bullying allegations
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