Her story is one of possibilities and hope, that of a true survivor.
Vanessa Govender will be sharing her story at a special Women’s Day High Tea at Carnival City on August 9.
The scene will be set for the sumptuous ladies-only high tea in the Rio Ballroom and guests can look forward to a captivating talk by Vanessa, as well as entertainment and lucky draws.
Vanessa, author of Beaten But Not Broken, is a former award-winning eTV news journalist and former SABC/Lotus FM radio news reporter.
At the height of her journalism career, more than one million households across the country knew who she was as her reporting on human suffering and triumph had captivated viewers.
At the same time, Vanessa shot to fame as one of the first female Indian television news reporters in South Africa.
Vanessa, who has always chased the human angle of every news story she has covered, made a name for herself by revealing the real feelings, emotions and suffering the most downtrodden and destitute people have had to face.
All the while, however, this champion for the demoralised was hiding a shocking story of her own.
In her book she finally opens up about her deepest secret – one that so nearly ended her career in broadcast journalism.
Vanessa did the unthinkable as an Indian woman in breaking the ranks of a close-knit conservative community to speak out about her five-year-long hell in an abusive relationship.
She also speaks of her experiences of childhood bullying and being ostracised by some in her community for being a dark-skinned Indian girl.
“At a time when abuse is so rife and we as women are encouraged to take a stand against it, Vanessa’s story of horrendous abuse brings women hope,” said Michelle Smith, marketing manager of Carnival City.
“It will inspire women from all walks of life to take a stand against abuse.
“We are thrilled to have her at our high tea as guest speaker.
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“She is dynamic and an inspiration to every lady who listens to her and leaves audiences feeling positive and very encouraged.”
Bring along the ladies close to your heart and enjoy a motivational talk from a dynamic speaker about living with the pain, and ultimately of how she was saved by her own relentless fighting spirit to find purpose and love.
In the driver’s seat as host, is award-winning talk show host CJ Benjamin.
CJ has received numerous awards for her public service and is passionate about youth and women empowerment.
CJ engages with youth and women across South Africa in public workshops, empowering people to make better choices for their lives.
She currently hosts empowerment talks on GlowTV with the aim of motivating and uplifting the country.
CJ is in the midst of a tour across Africa, delivering a series of talks at universities, women’s conferences and major workshops.
In true Carnival City style, the team will ensure that the four-hour-long high tea is fun-filled and jam-packed with pleasures and treats to excite every woman.
This is definitely one not to be missed.
Have a story?
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Thelma Koorts (editor) brakpanherald@caxton.co.za
or Stacy Slatter (news editor) stacys@caxton.co.za
or Miné Fourie (journalist) minev@caxton.co.za
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