Passionate about empowering women

FITNESS instructor Patience Ntombenhle Tsinde (35) begins her day at 3:30am and walk down dark alleys to catch a bus to the gym every morning.

The vibrant young woman, originally from Durban but now permanently residing in eSikhaleni, uses her fitness skills to empower women in many communities around the region.

She says her dream is to motivate others, and uses that passion to ‘get up and go’ daily.

Not only is she passionate about physical fitness, but believes the platform can be used to boost women’s self esteem and confidence.

‘There is so such negativity when it comes to women’s fitness and weight. This makes many give up on themselves as a result. It’s my duty to lift their spirit up, and even if only one person is motivated in a day, for me it’s a great achievement,’ she said.

When she is not training others or managing the Shapes for Women club in Richards Bay, Ntombenhle conducts awareness talks.

She educates young women about various workouts, gives advice on nutrition and inspire them to meet their fitness goals.

‘I love to visit women organisations or schools, especially in rural communities. I always tell them fitness is not only for certain people, but for everyone. I encourage them to love themselves first before educating them about the benefits, which include a healthy body, mind and a long life,’ she said.

‘Being physically fit helps fight disease like heart problems, diabetes and high blood pressure,’ she said.

Ntombenhle is a qualified fitness instructor, but continues to broaden her knowledge and is currently completing an in-dept personal training course at College SA.

She hopes, when qualified, she will spread her knowledge to other women and continue to advise, train and motivate them to be empowered individuals.