The Gauteng Provincial Women’s Network and Men for Change, in collaboration with Ekurhuleni District EHW, hosted a Valentine’s conference under the theme, We are talking love and relationships.
The conference brought together SAPS members from across five Gauteng districts, provincial and Ekurhuleni CPF representatives, along with partners from Santam, Sanlam, and the Ekurhuleni Employees Health and Wellness (EHW) division.
The event focused on unpacking the true meaning of love, relationships, and their deeper implications in life.
A spiritually uplifting start
The conference opened on a high note as Captain Nozipho Mapukata mesmerised the audience with a soulful song, setting the tone for the day.
Chaplain Princess Phathutshedzo Ntshavheni officially opened the event with an opening prayer, emphasising the importance of love and connection, while Captain Nonhlanhla Innoncentia Sibanyoni from the psychological service served as program director.
Ntshavheni highlighted the essence of relationships in her opening remarks.
“God, in His infinite wisdom, designed us for connection, relationships, and love. We were created for community – to love and to be loved. That’s why we’re gathered here today.
“In a world where relationships can be complicated, hurtful, and disappointing, we must remember that true relationships reflect the love of God,” she said.
Keynote address: Love starts with you
The keynote speaker, Major General Anna Sithole, delivered a powerful message on the importance of self-love.
“You need to first love yourself to love everyone else around you,” she emphasised.
She went on to unpack the meaning of the word ‘love’, offering insights into deeper significance in relationships and personal well-being.
Sithole encouraged women to embrace self-love and self-worth, reminding them that their happiness and confidence should not depend on other people’s validation.
Understanding love and relationships
Brigadier Nonhlanhla Ednah Shezi, from the Germiston Station Commander Women’s Network, explained the purpose of the event, noting that the Women’s Network and Men for Change initiative aims to educate attendees on the foundations of love and relationships.
“When you’re about to embark on a journey, you need to understand where you’re going. Today, we are here to unpack the manual for love and relationships,” said Shezi.
Key topics and speakers
The conference featured several insightful discussions led by expert speakers:
• Know what you are committing to: Attorney Katlego Mogorosi from Sanlam discussed the importance of having a will and provided proper guidelines for drafting one.
• Finances at the heart of every relationship: Financial planner Teddy Sibuyi from Santam focused on the impact of finances on relationships and the importance of financial planning.
• Relationships go beyond hearts and flowers: Pannellists from Santam and Sanlam discussed the legal aspects of love and relationships, shedding light on the intersection of law, assets, and finances.
The importance of financial planning in relationships
One of the key speakers, Katlego Mogorosi, emphasised the importance of having a will, particularly for married individuals.
“People often avoid discussing serious matters like wills, but it is essential knowledge. It’s heartbreaking to see hardworking individuals fail to secure their children’s financial future because they did not draft a will,” Mogorosi said.
Men for Change calls for responsible choices
Lieutenant Colonel Alfred Mokemane, Men for Change champion, extended his gratitude to Major General Sithole for her efforts in strengthening unity within SAPS.
He also advised SAPS members against cohabitation without commitment, saying, “Vat en sit does not work.”
Closing and appreciation
EHW Ekurhuleni District and CPF Provincial extended their deepest gratitude to Santam, Sanlam, and the entire team.
Special thanks were given to Tina Tshabalala for her hard work and dedication in ensuring the event’s success.
“Her tireless efforts and attention to detail have made all the difference,” said Sithole.
The event concluded with speakers and SAPS members receiving gifts from Santam and Sanlam.
