Women were given a platform to speak openly about the challenges they face and share their experiences during a Women’s Day programme hosted by Know Your Power (KYP) in Ext 8a on 9 August.
About 60 community members gathered at Thabile’s Place for the programme, which focused on strengthening solidarity among women and encouraging their participation in community affairs.
Poetry, remembrance messages and social engagement formed part of the programme, creating space for both celebration and reflection on the contribution women make to their communities.
KYP media representative Heinrich Mbhalati said creating spaces where women can be heard was an important part of empowerment.
“These initiatives give women a platform to engage, share their experiences and build solidarity. More importantly, women must have meaningful opportunities to contribute to the development of Orange Farm,” Mbhalati told OFN.
He said women’s empowerment should not be limited to commemorative events, but should include access to economic opportunities and greater participation in decision-making and community structures.
KYP President Galston Anthony, National Chairperson Brendon Govender and several of the organisation’s ward councillor candidates were among those who attended.
According to KYP, local government also has a role to play in creating opportunities for women to participate fully in economic, political and community life.
The organisation said it would continue hosting community engagements across Gauteng, particularly those aimed at increasing the participation of women and young people in local development.
