It's not easy being in the public eye, but it can be even tougher as the partner of a sought-after celebrity.
Rachel Kolisi, for example, has been under the spotlight this year, and she found that her active online presence put the spotlight of public scrutiny on not only herself, but also her children.
In response, she resolved to stop sharing pics of her kids online.
See: Rachel Kolisi won't show her kids faces on social media anymore
More recently Michelle Gildenhuys, wife of local celeb Emo Adams, shared how she receives disturbing messages from online trolls, and how while she brushes the messages away, she is concerned for her children.
In a heartfelt Instagram post the MC and influencer shared that she usually loves engaging with her followers, explaining "I love that I can honestly share my motherhood stories with other moms and we can laugh about it and get through this together. I love that I know I’m not alone!"
But, she says, this time she feels hurt and concerned.
"I’m concerned for my boys" she writes. "One day they will be old enough to have their own social media account and see these things."
Strong enough to handle this?
"I keep asking myself, have I raised them strong enough to handle this? And then I wonder why I have to raise them strong enough to handle this at all!" Michelle asks.
The mom of four young boys is calling on moms to join her in teaching children the importance of being accepting of all.
"Allow them friends of different races or religions and don’t let them shy away from talking to a child that is differently abled," she urges.
"The future of our country are the kids you and I are raising. It all starts in our homes! If we teach them that it’s ok to be friends or accepting of people with different races or religions we are sending into the future children that will bridge the gap!And that is what our county so desperately needs!"
See the post below:
Foundation for our children
Her words have resonated with many South African parents, and moms are responding and sharing their stories on her post.
Caryn replied, saying "...we as Mothers should plant a foundation for our children to learn that we are all equal no matter race, gender or religion".
Imaandv commented, saying "This world is really so scary and as a mom we start to feel like we must protect our kids from the world. Where in actual fact the world should be a place that is accepting of everyone regardless of race, or religion or abilities. Agree 100% it starts with us in our homes. Let's teach our kids to embrace everyone. And we will leave an accepting, kind & loving generation in this world when we are no longer here.
How have you approached your online presence since having children?
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