While her scars are a reminder of agony, tragic loss and a near-death experience, the story of mechanical engineer and domestic violence survivor Thembi Maphanga is that of a fortress whose resilience and bravery stood the test of time.

Earlier this month Sowetan paid a visit to Maphanga at her Middleburg home in Mpumalanga, where she shared her story of how she found healing after surviving a fire that left her with extensive scars and trauma...