Rachel Kolisi on Motherhood, Finding Strength and Falling Forward

There are stories that stay with you long after the last page – and Rachel Kolisi’s memoir is one of them.

What struck me most was not only the courage it took to open her heart to the world, but the grace with which she carries it. To speak so openly about pain, loss, single parenting and starting over under public scrutiny requires a kind of bravery that is both rare and deeply relatable.

Rather than carry it quietly, she has chosen to share it – with a dignity that is difficult to ignore.

As a mother who understands that life has a way of asking more of us than we ever imagined, her story speaks to the quiet weight many women carry.

There are experiences in life that many women carry in silence for years. What gave you the courage to open your heart so publicly – and what ultimately motivated you to share it with the world?

I think for a long time I believed that some parts of my story were mine to carry quietly, but I've come to realise that so many women are walking similar paths in silence. The courage didn't come all at once – it came in small steps, in choosing honesty over fear. What ultimately motivated me was the understanding that my story isn't just mine; if sharing it helps even one woman feel less alone or more hopeful, then it's worth it.

Opening your heart so publicly invites both kindness and criticism in equal measure. How have you learned to navigate hurtful commentary while staying grounded in your truth?

It hasn't always been easy. There are still moments that can be difficult, but I've learned to come back to my “why” – why I chose to share, and who I'm doing it for. I also remind myself that not everyone will understand your journey, and that's okay. Staying grounded comes from leaning into the people who truly know me, my faith, and the quiet work I'm doing in my own life.

What has been the most challenging – and perhaps most surprising – part of navigating this chapter of motherhood?

The most challenging part has been learning to hold everything on my own at times, emotionally and practically, while still showing up fully for my children. The surprising part has been discovering a strength I didn't know I had. There's also been a deeper connection and appreciation for the small, everyday moments with them that I don't take for granted. My children are the priority and always will be. 

Beyond the public headlines, what do you most hope to be known for?

I hope to be known as someone who chooses to keep moving forward – someone who created spaces where women could feel seen, supported, and reminded of their own strength.

What does the next chapter look like for you – personally, professionally and emotionally?

The next chapter feels like one of building – building Falling Forward as well as the Falling Forward Foundation into something that creates real impact. It's less about having everything figured out, and more about moving with intention and openness to what's ahead.

Falling Forward is available from Pan Macmillan South Africa, Exclusive Books, Wordsworth Books, Readers Warehouse, The Book Lounge, Bargain Books and The Book Keeper.