Jeceline Mupini (JM) is a dedicated life coach, speaker, and the visionary founder of the 14:11 Movement. A compelling storyteller, she often shares her personal journey as a suicide survivor, igniting genuine, impactful, and transformative discussions.

With expertise in pastoral ministry, mental health advocacy, and personal development coaching, Jeceline draws from both her heart and lived experiences. Whether she is engaging corporate teams, youth groups, schools, her presentations inspire audiences to seek healing, rediscover their purpose and flourish. In the hope that some of that polish would rub off onto me, I sat down with her to find out the source of her inspiration and passion along with what drives her to do what she does.

BK: For those who may not know who you are, could you kindly introduce yourself?

JM: For those who may not know me, my name is Jeceline Mupini. I am a twenty-year-old girl and would describe myself as a rising voice in the field of mental health and personal development.

BK: Could you maybe give us a brief description of what it is you do?

JM: I am a life coach by profession, and my coaching philosophy is “You are possible.” I use this mindset to inspire others to believe that they can be and achieve anything and everything they set their minds to, despite whatever circumstances or struggles may arise. This applies to all facets of life, from business to academics and beyond. I am also an ordained minister and have been one for three years now. My ministry as a pastor is mainly focused on soul healing, which aligns with my passion for mental health advocacy.

In addition, I am the founder of the movement #Unfiltered, which I started after the closure of my nonprofit organisation something I will touch on a bit later. #Unfiltered is a community movement dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental illness and providing a safe space for people to talk about their issues and struggles. I am also a soon-to-be-published author of two books I completed this year. The first, 14:11 – I Survived My Own Mind, is a poetry anthology launched on 14 November 2024. The second will be released in 2025. Last but not least, I have recently become involved in TV and podcast hosting, with a particular interest in personal development-focused content.

BK: What is it that led you to pick this career path?

JM: Personal experiences have been the main driving force behind choosing this particular career path. Growing up, I always hoped to become either a doctor or a lawyer. But when the time came to step into those careers, I hesitated. I felt there was something more I needed to do. I was drawn to something outside the norm. Having grown up in a household where life paths were clearly defined, the defiant part of me turned away from those expectations and led me toward helping people, the kind that I never received at pivotal points in my life’s journey. As a result, I made the conscious decision to become that person, a helping hand for others. I wanted to create a safe space where people could come and receive the support I lacked.

BK: What challenges come with your career, and how do you overcome them?

JM: My career comes with numerous challenges, particularly because I am not only trying to deal with my own issues, but also helping others confront theirs. This can be very difficult, as it involves absorbing large amounts of negative energy. At times, in trying to pour into and fill others’ cups, I find my own running dry. Another challenge is people’s opinions on mental health. Due to ignorance, some associate mental illness with attention-seeking. Sometimes, when I speak about my own struggles, people think I am trying to gain attention or attack individuals from my past. This could not be further from the truth.

To overcome these and other challenges, I write. I put on paper not only my own emotions but also those of the people I help. Sometimes, I simply crumple the paper and throw it away and in doing so, release the negative energy associated with those feelings. Other times, I choose to ignore the negativity directed at me and focus only on positive reinforcement from those who truly understand and appreciate what I do.

BK: How have personal experiences helped, shaped, or hindered your work as a mental health advocate?

JM: Personal struggles have been the backbone of my work. They are the very reason I started doing what I do. The challenges I faced without having anyone to understand me, motivated me to help others who are going through the same struggles I did. As for hindrance, since my work is largely based on lived experiences, having to revisit the darkest parts of my past is emotionally taxing.

BK: Who have you worked or partnered with in the past, and who would you like to work or partner with in the future?

JM: I have worked and continue to partner with numerous organisations across different fields. Just to name a few that have helped shape me into the person I am today: the Tanyaradzwa Initiative (2022–2023), an organisation focused on empowering women and equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in today’s world; the Legacy Creators, a youth initiative aimed at encouraging young people to live purposeful and impactful lives; and lastly, but certainly not least, the Wings of Grace Trust in Mufakose. These are just a few of the organisations I have been honoured to partner with over the years.

Looking ahead, my dream collaborator is Sarah Jakes Roberts. It is my greatest aspiration to one day share the stage with her at a Woman Evolve Conference. Locally, I would love to partner with Tariro Gezi, a popular influencer who has been raw and honest about her journey to success. I also hope to partner with the National Alliance on Mental Health, as I believe that having the support of an accredited body would significantly enhance the work I do.

BK: What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your advocacy work?

JM: One of the major challenges I have faced is backlash. When you talk about your personal struggles and bring certain issues to light, it can sometimes seem to others as though you are glorifying pain, depression, or other mental health challenges. But in reality, you are just trying to raise awareness of the silent struggles many people face behind closed doors. Another challenge is dealing with feelings of inadequacy or even hypocrisy. As someone whom others look to for support, I often feel under pressure, especially when I am battling my own inner storms. Lastly, relating to people whose experiences are different from mine can be difficult. While I have had my own struggles, some of the people I aim to help face challenges that are very different from those I encountered.

BK: Is there anything we can look forward to in the coming year?

JM: Absolutely! There is a lot to look forward to in the coming year. Firstly, I plan to reopen my nonprofit organisation. Previously known as DynaMind, I am rebranding it as Reviver International. In 2025, I will also be launching a personal development podcast titled Strive Daily. It will feature people from various sectors and walks of life who will inspire those still on their journey to the top. Lastly, 2025 will see the release of my second book, Goal Getter, a practical guide to living a life of purpose and intention.

BK: What is the ‘Stand Firm Squad’?

JM: I am glad you asked! The Stand Firm Squad is a group of media students from the University of Zimbabwe who launched a campaign on the 11th of this month to fight against social media peer pressure. I was honoured to be the guest speaker at their official launch. The initiative addresses issues today’s youth are grappling with such as social media addiction, peer pressure, low self-esteem, and feelings of inferiority due to the unrealistic, curated images shared online.

BK: It has come to my attention that 14 November 2024 was a very important day for you. Care to share what happened?

JM: Absolutely. 14 November was incredibly significant to me for two reasons. First, it is the day I launched my very first book. Second, it marks exactly one year since I attempted to take my own life.

BK: What inspired the writing of 14:11, and what is it about?

JM: As I mentioned, the book was inspired by my suicide attempt on 14 November 2023. The book is not necessarily about the act itself, but about what would have been lost had I succeeded. I have come to realise I still have so much to offer the world. In launching the book, I hope to show others that you are valuable, and that each of us has a purpose. It is written from the perspective of those left behind and is set at the funeral of a suicide victim. Its aim is to show the impact that suicide has on loved ones.

BK: When and where can people get a copy of your forthcoming book?

JM: The book will be available in both digital and print formats. Details will be posted on all my social media platforms.

BK: It has come to my attention that on 31 May you launched an exciting new project. Could you kindly share more about it?

JM: Yes, that is true. On 31 May, I launched the 14:11 Movement. It is a youth-driven, survivor-led series of educational initiatives, documentaries, workshops, and events aimed at raising awareness about suicide prevention. It was created to confront the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health, by shedding light on the experiences of victims and survivors. The movement is based on my first published book, 14:11 – I Survived My Own Mind, launched on 14 November 2024.

BK: Who did you partner with for the launch, and are you open to more sponsors and partners?

JM: For our launch, we partnered with: JOSM Electrical (sponsor), a manufacturer of commercial electric boards used in the agriculture, mining, industrial, and residential sectors; Chikomborero Foundation (partner), a youth-led initiative focused on agricultural empowerment and mental health awareness; MedOrange Pharmacies; Empowered Flow Tour; and the International Coaching and Mentoring Foundation. Yes, we are still open to more partners and sponsors. Anyone interested in supporting our work can contact us at 0774319865.

BK: Who inspires you?

JM: I have two role models who continue to inspire me. The first is Oprah Winfrey, who needs no introduction. Despite experiencing unimaginable hardship at an early age, she overcame it all, created platforms for others to share their struggles, and extended support through her philanthropic work. The second is Sarah Jakes Roberts. After going through her own challenges, she rose above them and became a powerful voice of healing and empowerment. These are the women I look up to, not only to emulate, but hopefully, to one day surpass.

BK: How do you keep yourself feeling positive and motivated, especially in such a demanding field?

JM: You are absolutely right, the field is demanding. Many times my work is exhausting, stressful, and draining but also deeply fulfilling. At the end of each day, I usually switch off my phone for an hour or two to spend time alone with my thoughts and reflect on the day. In my free time, I enjoy nature walks. They help me stay in tune with my surroundings and connect with the beauty of life and its source.

BK: How has helping others helped you personally?

JM: Helping others has given my life purpose. Service is healing, it has helped me to grow, find meaning, and live intentionally. It motivates me daily and gives me a reason to wake up each morning.

BK: Do you feel enough is being done to raise awareness of mental health challenges? If not, what more do you think needs to be done?

JM: I do not think enough is being done. While mental health has become a trending topic, we still overlook its seriousness. Society still stigmatises those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other conditions. We need to have deeper, more open conversations about mental health. These conditions are complex, and the public needs access to detailed, accurate information. There is also a need for more platforms where people can share their experiences and receive support. This would increase early detection, improve treatment access, and reduce suicide rates.

BK: How do you prioritise your own mental health and self-care as a mental health advocate and life coach?

JM: With both roles being emotionally demanding, I prioritise self-care by journaling. Writing helps me process my emotions and separate my own feelings from those of the people I work with. I also take periodic breaks from social media, not going completely offline, but stepping away from work-related content and scrolling casually instead. There is always a risk of pouring into others while running on empty, so I set boundaries to create a healthy work-life balance. Lastly, and most importantly, I pray. With God, there is nothing I cannot overcome or accomplish.

BK: What advice do you have for anyone looking to pursue a career in your field?

JM: To anyone pursuing life coaching, ministry, or advocacy, I have one message: Never give up. There may be many forces working against you, but keep pushing. Keep moving. Trust in your why.

BK: What advice would you give to someone facing mental health challenges like depression or suicidal thoughts?

JM: Talk about it. Do not bottle up negative emotions or let them fester. Find a safe space, family, friends, church, or support groups and release what you are carrying. Healing may not come overnight, but in time, the ice will thicken and hold your weight. There is always a reason to live and a tomorrow worth waiting for.