A place of hope for the vulnerable

Corinne together with four other women namely Sylvie Desoulier, Sarah Khosa, Monika Smith and Emily Shivambo run the Tzaneen Skill Centre.

In April 2017, the Tzaneen Skills Centre introduced a skills development initiative – designing and making beautiful handbags from quality twine – aimed at helping women to get back on their feet and gain financial independence.

I arranged a meeting with Monika, thinking I’d do a human interest about her but when I got there, it was so much more.

The first thing you see when you walk into the centre is the beautiful and neatly made bags.

Then you see the women hard at work on their projects.

Monika shows me their holiday projects, wine gift bags also neatly stitched to sell for Christmas.

Everyone was so friendly as I greet them.

Monika tells me that Corinne is on her way and that she will bring a guest, Pastor George.

He visits Tzaneen once a month to pray with the community and on that day he would be talking to the ladies.

It was easy to see that they had a really hard life.

I had a chat with Monika and Corinne outside while Pastor George spoke to the women.

Right from the bat it was clear that these two women were passionate about what they are doing.

Seven ladies have been off the street since they have started the Skills Centre.

“It’s very important people understand that we are faith-based, all of this is through the power of God,” said Corinne.

They drive through town at night reaching out to trafficked women, often just offering them tea or something to eat.

If they are willing, they tell them about the program and how they can improve their life.

I got the chance to speak to Patricia Malesa who was one of the first women to join the centre.

Originally from Phalaborwa, Patricia has come a long way.

As she tells me her story on the streets which started in 2001, her positive attitude towards life was amazing to see.

My emotions got the better of me and as a journalist I knew I had to contain myself.

I cannot help but feel inspired by this powerful woman sitting outside with me under the shade telling me about all the hard times.

“Each and every day it becomes easier and I never want to go back. One day I will be my own boss,” she tells me with confidence.

She started making hats and with the income she made, there was no need for her to go back.

Patricia would like to get everyone off the street. Her best friend has also joined the group and together they are getting through it.

She would like to tell women that there is other ways and means of making a living.

For a moment I pitied these women but soon came to the realisation that pity is certainly not what they want or need.

They are strong and now independent people with their own identity, at last.

They take pride in what they are doing and have raised to the top.

They would like to move to bigger premises so they can help more women.

If anyone would like to help, phone Monika Smith on 083 444 8340 or email corinne@stoptrafficking.org.za