“Recently, I got to do some work with an organisation that assists young girls who have been raped and or abused. These girls are between the ages of nine and 19.
I was asked to attend this workshop and go through some general techniques to defend against rape and domestic violence. I quickly roped in some help. Adrian, thanks so much for being so willing and eager to assist me.
These girls are amazing. Despite their history, they chose to show up today and do something to learn to defend themselves. They came to uplift their lives, and they came because they decided to change their situation by educating themselves. I am so humbled by the experience.
The workshop went by swiftly, with ease, until we got to the subject of rape defence. I could see them shutting down, one by one! I could see them withdrawing into themselves, just a shadow of the loud, energetic girls that warmly welcomed me.
As I was speaking my eyes just filled with tears and my throat didn’t want to cooperate anymore as my voice cracked, giving me away completely. These girls were hurt, and this type of pain doesn’t just go away. While this organisation provides counselling, the physical journey is a hard path to walk.
Today, I’m so grateful for being allowed the privilege of helping them heal. While they may still have a long road ahead of them, and they will still face challenges others will never understand, they are choosing to be victors rather than play victims.
I pray that God comforts them, eases the pain and helps them to understand how their incredible journey of healing and empowerment is only just beginning.”
Dominique Olfsen from Elite Defence Academy – Krav Maga JHB South.
