Several women from Randfontein and further afield attended a women’s lecture hosted by the South African Synod on Saturday, 10 November.
The aim was to inspire and empower women through the legacy of South Africa’s political stalwart, Nokutela Dube, who is known for championing women’s rights. Reverend Thulani Ndlazi, secretary for the Synod, said women were also taught some of the principles that Nokutela Dube stood for.
“We are doing something to honour her life and legacy. Nokutela was a woman of fortitude, a woman with vision and a woman who took ministry seriously. We want to use her stature to empower women who have been oppressed in modern society,” Thulani said.
He said seeing that there have been many cases of women being abused by men in higher positions, such as in churches, working environments, and in their homes, he said the dialogue would condemn this this behaviour.
“Many of these women want to be successful but unfortunately they are being held back by patriarchy in society.
“We will also focus on how those who have been oppressed can rebuild their fortitude and learn how they can push back against negative patriarchal tendencies,” he said.
Thulani said women will be taught how they can heal from the hurt they have already endured. They will learn how they can they plant the seed of hope in their lives.
Thulani said the ultimate message that the lecture aims to spread is that society must acknowledge women for their strength, and give them the same respect as their male counterparts.
Dr Brigalia Bam, a guest speaker at the conference, said: “I am here this time to say to the women that we need to make a commitment to support young women of this nation, and through that we hope to create a movement that will empower other young women.
“Our ministry should put more effort into affirming the women of this nation in every respect,” Brigalia added.
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