“Take a stand, take a lead like women of 1956” is a progressive media headline which better describes the mood that overwhelmed women who attended this year’s commemoration of Women’s Month organised by the Department of Public Works (DPW), North Coast Region.
A bevy of beauties in black congregated at the Shed premises in the Vryheid District, North Coast Region to pay tribute to more than 20 000 women of 1956 who braved the unjust laws imposed by the apartheid regime which deprived them of their right to move freely without carrying dompass in public, in the land of their birth.
On the 25 August 2022, women of colour held an auspicious gathering under the theme: “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow and Women Advancement in the Work Place.” This complemented a biblical verse quoted from the book of Proverbs 31:25 which reads as follows: “She is clothed in strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future” as the region’s own interpretation of the theme.
Flowing from the above, the North Coast Regional Director, Ms D. Fihlela gave praise to the Almighty God for entrusting women with strategic positions of authority in the workplace, alluding to the fact that, HE (God) has so much trust in them, and that is the sole reason as to why such blessings come their way. She also encouraged them to stay focused and never allow any manmade and fabricated stumbling blocks to hinder their way to success.
“It does not matter where you come from or what your past looks like, what is important is your present and the future as you still have the power to change it”. She further pleaded with ladies to never persevere toxic situations which break their souls, they must always bear in mind that, they come first in whatever they do in life.
Ms CN Khumalo who serves in the capacity of an Internal Director for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), expatiated the importance of the day and further urged women to be unapologetic towards restoration of their pride and never succumb to anything which might render them to be inferiority complex agents.
“Do not allow to be intimidated, work hard, your goals will be achieved. Shy away from pulling each other down, be your sister’s keeper. Take a stand, take a lead just like the women of 1956,” Ms Khumalo added.
The Guest Speaker Ms T. Msane Department of Social Development Service Office Manager in Vryheid prompted the group of women that attended the session to take up space and be the champions of change. She also touched on gender equality in the workplace and said, it is no secret that there is still a shortage of women in leadership positions. She encouraged them to develop themselves and take leadership roles because they possess the necessary capabilities and expertise required to occupy such positions. “You must take the initiative to develop yourself as a woman and always avail yourself to opportunities placed for your advancement,” said Ms Msane.
The DPW’s DDG: Corporate Services Mr PW Duma conveyed a message of support on behalf of the Department. He paid a special tribute to a total of 16 selfless and dedicated female colleagues who over the past months lost their lives due to Covid 19 pandemic which engulfed the global community at the drop of a helmet. Duma pledged his support in promoting gender equality saying women also have the power to turn any situation around.”
Towards the end of the programme, Mr S Makhathi from the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), offered a lecture on financial literacy, which talks to debt and general management of finances. Women attendees were eventually showered with gifts which will serve as their special souvenirs.
Article by Lungile Mseleku
Images by Siyathuthuka Mthembu