Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum hosted women from all walks of life in celebrating and appreciating Women’s Day on Tuesday 9 August.
Clad in red and black, women shared their stories of success and also encouraged each another to unite.
On the day they were also entertained through poetry and music items.
Women urged one another to show support and empathy when they meet different challenges in life.
They also stressed the importance of guidance and willingness to listen to their children so that they grow up as responsible adults that contribute positively in society.
One of the organisers Zimkhitha Ngaleka said they decided to celebrate women on this day by showing them “love and appreciation”.
“We all know that women in this area were not allowed to reside. It was exclusively for men, but through the years that changed,” she said.
“Women started to come in their numbers, and they started their businesses. We want to say we are inspired by their efforts and relentless spirit to fight on,” said Ngaleka.
Ntombikayise Wonti (49) related her story of empowering herself through local projects in her community.
“As a person, I like to learn and develop myself into a better person. So, I was part of women that learnt how to use beads, which was run by this museum,” she said.
“Today I can make my own beads and also sell them to make ends meet. As women, we need to standup for ourselves and do whatever it takes to stand on our own,” she said.
Wonti said women had a lot to deal with as they were the most victims to gender- based violence (GBV) while their children were also involved in drug abuse.
She encouraged women to start learning new things in life which will help empower them for the future.
Wonti said they were also appreciative of the selfless women that fought through hard times of apartheid so that today they can also enjoy freedom.