"Looks Like Different People": Woman’s Weight Loss Journey Inspires Mzansi

• A TikTok user shared before-and-after photos of her weight loss journey, and the video quickly went viral online
• The transformation showed her going from a fuller figure to a leaner, healthier look, radiating confidence
• The comment section turned into a space of encouragement, where many related to the journey and felt motivated
• Briefly News reached out to fitness trainer Isaac Banda and wellness coach Mothusi Maepa, who both shared their expert insights on the fitness journey

South Africans reacted to a TikTok weight loss journey that not only showcased a physical transformation but also highlighted confidence and resilience, sparking encouragement for healthier lifestyles.

Transformation stories always strike a chord online, and one woman’s weight loss journey did exactly that. A TikTok user @mamello_phiri24 shared a video on 4 September 2025, showing her before and after pictures. In just four days, the post garnered over 19,000 likes and more than 200 comments, demonstrating the strong resonance with her story. The video reflected a personal milestone that went beyond looks, sparking motivation for many who are working toward their own goals.

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The before photo showed her with a fuller figure, while the after picture revealed her leaner, healthier self. The difference wasn’t only in size but also in her overall glow and confidence, which caught viewers’ attention. For many, it highlighted how lifestyle changes can yield noticeable results, encouraging people to believe in the power of small, consistent efforts.

A story of motivation

The comment section quickly became a space of encouragement, with many relating to the journey and feeling motivated. Some admired her discipline, while others found encouragement to start their own journeys. TikTok users often gravitate toward stories that feel real and relatable, and this post struck that balance perfectly. The responses showed how content around health and fitness can spark meaningful conversations, rather than just admiration.

The weight loss journey became a source of inspiration for people who understood the ups and downs of trying to live healthier lives. While every person’s path looks different, the video reminded viewers that visible results come with patience and determination. Her transformation wasn’t framed as perfection, but as progress, making it easy for others to connect.

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fitness trainer Isaac Banda, who said one of the biggest misconceptions about fitness is the belief that people need the 'perfect moment' to start their journey. He explained that waiting for the right mindset, the right gear, or the right support system often delays progress, when in fact, the motivation grows along the way. He said:

“The truth is, things don’t align in the beginning. They align as you go along. The same goes for the right mindset or motivation; it comes as we go, thinking one workout at a time and not thinking about the end goal.”

Isaac stressed the importance of staying grounded in your personal reasons for training, especially on difficult days. He said:

“Most days you will feel like not going to the gym, most days you’ll feel like quitting, most days you might even try to convince yourself that it is not working out for you, and that’s when you need to remember your why. Remembering your ‘why’ is what will keep you going.”

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For him, the best advice is simply to begin. He said:

“What I can say to anyone wanting to start… just start! Don’t think about it. The longer you wait, the more it gets. Remember what this means to you so that when you feel discouraged, this will keep the fire burning inside.”

Briefly News also spoke to Mothusi Maepa, who encouraged people to shift their mindset and focus on small, sustainable steps rather than chasing perfection. He explained that consistency doesn’t mean extreme dieting or overtraining, but instead building simple, healthy habits. He said:

“You need to shift your mindset; start small with baby steps, like just deciding to go to the gym or walking on the treadmill. Simply showing up is a start.”

Mothusi added that progress comes from balance and gradual improvement. He said:

“Consistency matters, but you don’t have to eat perfectly clean or train seven times a week. Focus on basic habits, like eating less or being in a calorie deficit, and gradually change your routine. That’s it, just show up and take it step by step.”

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Mzansi reacted to the video

Tshepang wrote:

"How long did it take you?"

Sophy commented:

"I need to achieve what you achieved in three days."

Motshidisi Mphike commented:

"Nyeke, ngiyala....what did you use?"

Nails by Setha wrote:

"How long does it take to see the results?"

Mphoison said:

"Chomie, I'm really interested neh, mara meal plan yaka e tloba jwang? Keja eng le eng? 😭"

Mamello_phiri24 replied:

"Wa bona o start ka negative mindset chomi yaka. 🥹😆 Let’s start first eo after."

Jayee1414 commented:

"What did you use, sweety?"

Black_Woman01 wrote:

"O tswa Turkey akere? 👀"

Mmaphakisho said:

"Looks like two different people."

Check out the TikTok post below:

Lose weight in a healthy way

If you are trying to lose a few kilos, the trick is doing it safely and in a way you can sustain. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best approach includes healthy eating, moving your body regularly, and making small lifestyle changes. The experts suggest aiming to drop about 0.5 - 1 kg per week, which you can achieve by cutting around 500 - 750 calories a day.

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Eating healthy is also crucial. Focus on fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, and try to keep processed foods and added sugar to a minimum. Exercise of at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, plus strength training a couple of times a week, is recommended.

Little habits make a big difference in the long run. So it is important to set realistic goals. Track your progress, manage stress and get enough sleep. The Mayo Clinic also emphasises keeping a positive mindset. Celebrate small wins, be patient and focus on progress over perfection.

3 Briefly News stories about weight loss journeys

• Cassper Nyovest faced criticism about his appearance, mostly his weight gain after his Scorpion Kings Live concert performance.
• Prince Kaybee shared a new picture, showcasing the progress he has made since starting his weight loss journey.
• Vuyokazi Nciweni continues her journey with another cosmetic procedure in Turkey, marking a new chapter in her body confidence.

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Updated by Hilary Sekgota, Human Interest HOD at Briefly News.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News