Revved up against domestic violence

Sunday’s Ride for a Purpose bike rally, spearheaded by a 15-year-old Edenvale school pupil, proved that domestic violence is a cause to be addressed by any age and gender.
The NEWS was the proud media partner of this worthy project aimed at creating awareness about domestic violence.
“Domestic violence does not discriminate. It affects all walks of life – rich, poor, any age, gender and race. I take my hat off to Amy who took up this cause and planned and hosted an amazingly successful bike rally.
“With the support of her mother, Shareen, her school, Holy Rosary School and numerous kind and generous sponsors, the idea culminated in a hugely successful event which attracted great participation,” said the NEWS’ Editor, Mrs Marietta Lombard.
The initiative was created by Amy to commemorate her aunt Liesl, a mother of two who was murdered by her husband on June 17, 2010. Liesl was stabbed multiple times.
“The initiative is for my two cousins, David and Gabriel, who lost their mother and I thought this was my year to make a difference. It is a stand against domestic violence,” said Amy.
“Amy came to me saying she wanted to do something meaningful and something more than going around and selling raffle tickets. I told her if she wants to raise awareness, she must realise that it is a lot of hard work, especially if she is going to do something worthwhile,” Shareen previously told the NEWS.
“Amy is still young and she doesn’t realise what great work she has done and what impact this initiative is having. I am so proud of Amy for doing this because it helps us heal. Liesl’s children are excited that they are doing something for their mother,” said Shareen shortly before the event.
The huge turnout for Sunday’s rally was a testament to the hard work put into organising the event.
The NEWS’ Editor was accompanied by Holy Rosary High School’s principal, Mrs Jacinta Lucas, who joined the bikers on the road to Hartebeespoort Dam.
Everyone enjoyed an entertaining afternoon at Route 66, despite the rain.
“I thank Amy, her mother Shareen, Holy Rosary School, all the sponsors and supporters and most importantly, each and every biker who made Sunday a huge success.
“These men and women revved their iron horses against domestic violence and supported a 15-year-old girl who loudly stated with this event that enough is enough. She has shown an entire community that proactive reaction to society’s problems can, and should be, addressed. It is our responsibility towards each other. Blow the whistle on domestic violence, raise awareness at every possible opportunity, stand up for those in need and give them a voice,” said the NEWS’ Editor, Marietta Lombard.