Women’s month - celebrating the journey of South African woman

As we approach the month of August, it is natural to reflect on the achievements of women, and the imperative role that women of all races and denominations play in South Africa.

On the 9 August 1956, over 20 000 women marched to the Union buildings in Pretoria to present a petition against the carrying of passes by women. This protest was led by Lillian Ngoyi, a political activist at the time.

This women’s month, we urge you to reflect on the true heritage and meaning of Women’s Day and Women’s Month, and to appreciate the journey South African women have achieved and still are achieving.

Here’s how we can celebrate this women’s month:

Recognition of achievements

Let’s take the time this month to recognise and appreciate all that our women do for us, both personally and for South Africa as a whole. In the last couple of years, we have seen the first female-owned airline in South Africa, the first black woman in South Africa to become a pilot and a South African woman appointed as the head of Facebook Africa (just to name a few).

UBUNTU- Making a difference

Ubuntu represents a quality that includes essential human virtues: compassion and humanity. South African people are well known for practising Ubuntu. Ubuntu also means ‘I am what I am because of who we all are.’

This sense of community prompts women to let the achievements of others inspire and unlock their own strengths and potential to make a difference, within their families, society and our country.

Entrepreneurship

There is a great spirit of entrepreneurship in South Africa, and the government has implemented campaigns aimed specifically at empowering women and allowing them to reach their full potential.

For instance, South African Woman entrepreneurs (SAWEN), an initiative by the Department of Trade and Industry, aims to empower and motivate women by urging them to talk about the challenges they face in the business world, and how these can be overcome.

So, before you rush out to buy an expensive gift for women’s day, reflect on the real meaning and heritage of this day, and think of more meaningful ways you can celebrate and express your gratitude for all the women in South Africa. Whether that is by showing appreciation for a particular achievement or introducing someone to an organisation that will allow them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations — it all forms part of what Women’s Day represents and stands for.