#StrongWomen: KwaDukuza teacher and comedian says she laughs in the face of adversity

Despite the trauma of 2 failed marriages, KwaDukuza teacher and comedian Mello Gilbert said she found the strength to rise again through prayer and laughter.

The Durban-born woman teaches English Home Language to grade 11 and 12 students at ML Sultan Secondary and describes herself as a jovial personality, always finding the humor in everything.

The single mother of 4 also owns 6 huskies, and began her acting career with a lead role in Hasina Kathrada’s controversial play, ‘Look at Yourself’ in 1988.

Mello has gone on to star in a number of plays and has even co-directed and produced some along the way.

Just as Mello enjoys making the classroom a fun environment, so too does she at home with her own children, who she said take great delight in ganging up on her.

“We spend lots of time in our kitchen. We love long conversations over great food. Meal-time is connecting time” she said.

Mello said her difficult marriages have made her a champion for women trapped in unhealthy relationships.

“There are still many women who feel that having a man by their side defines who they are. In many instances, this is why they are silent about physical or emotional abuse. More strong women need to encourage the weaker ones to believe that they are enough.”

As she celebrates turning 50 and in keeping with Women’s Month, Mello’s already sold out upcoming show ‘The Mello Monologues’ on August 7.

It tells stories of the challenges women face and how they have been overcome.

“Many stronger, happier women survived the trauma and are all around us now! There is always hope for a better life. I am inspired by myself and how far I have come to be a fearless warrior protected by the armour of God.”

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