Heideveld women were spoiled with treats, gifts and certificates of appreciation, in commemoration of Women’s Month.
Two Heideveld women who know all too well some of the struggles faced by women in their community, hosted a Women’s Day event on Saturday August 14.
The organisers, Raeesha Adams and Madeleine Oliver, said they wanted to create a space where women could just “let their hair down”, enjoy each other’s company, the treats, and be inspired by some motivational speakers.
“I am a single mother for 19 years, and I have been unemployed for two years, and this is why I am so passionate about empowering women and supporting one another. In the times we are living in, our religion is important, but our humanity is just as important. The idea was for us to get to know each other, and share whatever was on our minds” Ms Adams said.
A talk by one of the guest speakers led to the discussion around forming a support group for women who had lost loved-ones.
Uleen Bailey spoke about the pain of losing her son, Sergio Davids, 25, who was killed in crossfire in Manenberg in 2018.
“We never really get over the loss of a loved-one and we all mourn differently. I would like to encourage the ladies, however, not to sit in a corner and let life pass us by. Some women do not talk about death, but it really helps us to talk about it. I think for this reason, a bereavement support group for women is an excellent idea,” Ms Bailey said.
Ms Adams and Ms Oliver opened a hair salon in Heideveld only one month ago, and they felt the need to give back to the community, especially since, not too long ago, they had been unemployed.
Said Ms Adams: “There are many people who focus on gender-based violence during Women’s Month, and that is important, because we have a long way to go to eradicate that - but there are other issues affecting women as well.
“There are many who struggle to put food on the table, and we forget about dealing with loss. I am happy that our gathering today had a positive outcome, and that out of this, a support group might form.”
The 14 women who attended received gifts and were also given certificates of appreciation.