Diary of a Big Girl in a Small World

A comedic genius, public figure, media darling, and all-around-awesome lady, Natashia Munian is fondly known by her professional brand and stage name “Bash with Tash” and has become one of entertainment’s most sought-after and versatile stars. A social media content creator and live performance artist from Chatsworth in KwaZuluNatal, she has played to packed houses around South Africa. Tash is loved by her peers and fans for her realness, her integrity, her compassionate spirit and her intelligence. Whether on stage or through her online presence, this comedic genius continues to shine a spotlight on important issues and spread laughter. Her infectious energy and relatable humour have earned her a devoted following.

The smile is broad, the tears have dried and now she has made her life her message…

Comedy was not always a part of my life and I never imagined this would be my life. Now I wouldn’t change it for the world. Spending seventeen years as a call centre agent and then moving up to Customer Service Manager, were truly memorable years of my life. Then the leap to study had moved the notion and I completed my BBA degree. I was heading back into the industry when my video went viral and the next thing I knew, my shows started selling out.

Many have questioned my career path, but I believe this journey was chosen for me. I would never change this career, because as much as there are challenges, we also wake up every day to many messages from people speaking about the confidence they gained and the therapy that comedy has been for them. If I could change lives then my purpose is fulfilled.

Being a fuller figured woman came with lots of pain. Finding love in a world where I was judged by my physical appearance killed every bit of confidence I ever had. There were many silent tears and many questions until I finally realised that my faith can and will move mountains. Being told by men that you are too fat for them, breaks a woman into a million pieces and these pieces take a long time to heal. I was always bullied and to this day still get bullied regarding the weight issue.

Eight years ago, I finally met a man who walked into my life accepting all of me, just the way I am. After all my pain and various health issues, the wheel of faith had finally turned. All the acid tears moved to tears of joy… and I am happy to share that we will celebrate our 6th Wedding Anniversary in March. My husband is my world and ‘Hunkle’ (as he is fondly known by my followers) is the backbone of my brand. My heart feels complete. I have decided that my brand will be a message to all women seeking their ‘happily ever after’. I also began the very important journey of breaking the shackles and loving myself. In the past I was not happy with my appearance and I did not show myself love but now I have realised the importance of self-love. I have learnt to do things that make me happy, and even though I still get criticism, I turn to prayer to guide me. There are many challenges I’m still dealing with but, with prayer, nothing is impossible.

I’m using this brand as my voice to break the silence, especially for women who feel voiceless. I want to assure women that it’s ok not to be perfect and love you for you. I feel that women go through many things and have a lot going on at times and don’t have anyone to open up to or relate to and this is a gateway to just being more confident.

My beautiful parents, siblings and husband are a great source of inspiration and have always motivated me and pushed me to do the best that I can. My solid small circle of friends are my pillars of strength and support, and they have proven that good friendships do exist.

I’m in the business of making people laugh, even at my lowest points and down days, because nothing brings me more joy than to see those smiles on people’s faces.

I was very lost for a very long time and serving others helped me find myself again. I was raised by parents who have instilled these values in us and that grew. As a woman with no children, I’m also very passionate about always helping children and the elderly. The Bash with Tash brand is six years old, and we pride ourselves in being not just a brand but a community for our fans. It takes lots of work and determination and my team and I get slandered, even for doing good deeds, but we will continue to make this life our message.

There were, and still are, many challenges. I always say that as women we are looked at before we are heard and that is why having self-confidence is key, because so many look up to me. With the challenges I have learned that one needs to create an opportunity where there is none, take risks and always try new things. It’s not easy but definitely worth it. Alongside this I have also made it my mission to make a mark that is unforgettable in this industry, not just for me but every single woman out there who thinks it’s not possible.

My message to every single person is very clear. I am a brand that remains and always has been authentic. I keep it real and would like to remind you that the wheel turns so no matter what you are going through, you will win in the end. Never give up, never settle and never lose hope. Remember that it is okay not to be okay and it is also okay to celebrate yourself. I have failed many times and I will never be perfect but I will keep trying even when I fail. I will always be the person that wants to spread laughter and joy.

My brand is dedicated to all the women who were denied any opportunity or space in this big world by small minded people. We fight harder and we move stronger. Being bullied for my appearance taught me to be proud of who I am and I use my influence to challenge stereotypes. Instead of letting criticism bring me down, I use my platform to speak out against bullying and to empower women. Everyone should embrace their uniqueness.

I want my brand to inspire and empower others and I use relatable comedy to empower others who have faced similar situations.

To aspiring comedians, I cannot emphasise enough the importance of hard work, determination, perseverance, and dedication. Always keep your feet on the ground and remain humble.

Bash with Tash – Changing the norms of society

Natashia Munian