The recognition of women trailblazers who continue to break new ground by uplifting their communities and empowering others was the order of the day at Region C’s Women’s Month Programme in Roodepoort Theatre.
The event, organised by the GBV Region C Forum and supported by the Department of Social Development, saw the theatre filled with courageous women from different wards under Region C in the City of Joburg.
The purpose of the event was to celebrate National Women’s Month by highlighting women’s multifaceted challenges as well as their diverse achievements towards empowerment.
According to the Regional Manager of the department in Region C on Gender-Based Violence, Dorah Mashita, women should normalise celebrating each other and believe in their dreams.
“We need to come together as women, chat over tea about our challenges, share successes and resources. Find things that make us flourish together as women,” said Mashita.
She recalled the strength and resilience of the women of 1956 who paved the way for other generations. This is also emphasised as one of the programme’s primary focus, which highlights the historical challenges women have had to face, such as apartheid.
Heart-wrenching stories that turned into victories were shared by some of the women who took the podium. These sparked emotions of inspiration and motivation in the room.
“I cannot forget the times I was victimised by my husband in whatever way you can think of. I was convinced life was not worth living. Today, I have my own business and help other women who are experiencing the same. I cannot thank the City enough for the support we keep getting from time to time whether we are victims or we are in business,” said Ms Phindi Pule from Braamfischerville in Soweto.
Various stakeholders also conducted insightful presentations that all carried undertones of the importance of economic and social empowerment for women. Among the presenters was Bongiwe Nkosi from the Gauteng Enterprise Propeller, who shared how the government assists and supports small businesses in Gauteng.
Rodney Mudzuli from Social Development’s Food Resilience unit shared information on how the City helps men and women in agriculture and small-scale farming.
The event ended with all the dedicated and innovative women pledging to work tirelessly day and night to assist GBV victims in their wards by giving them shelter or skills to improve their lives so they are independent.
Written by Thembelihle Radebe and Pamela Sibiya.
SOURCED FROM THE CITY OF JOBURG WEBSITE.
