A gathering of like-minded souls took place on Saturday, June 11 at the Crowbar in Little Falls.
A Woman’s Voice, organised by Aladia Mohamed who is a local business-woman and former victim of gender-based violence and domestic abuse, was created in the hopes to unite women who have been affected by depression, emotional and physical abuse, and the harsh reality of a male-driven world.
Guest speaker at the event, Pat Bosman has experienced what it is like to work in a male-dominated industry, and suffered from depression herself. She aims to help women going through the same struggles through her work in reflexology and abundant experience. Nathanie Hislop spoke about how looking after you physical health can have a great impact on your mental health. She went on to say that by using 30 minutes of your day to exercise and relax your body, you are releasing much-needed endorphins into your system. Exercising can also be a big stress reliever and can help you work through tension in your body.
After the guest speakers addressed the attendees, Aladia gave the ladies from #ProjectRage an opportunity to share their message. “We are saying enough is enough. Gender-based violence needs to stop, and we are challenging everyone to put up their hand and say ‘no more blood on our hands’,” explained Sandra Da Mata, co-owner of the non-profit organisation. She added that #ProjectRage hopes to raise awareness of the many cases of gender-based violence in and around the Northside area. They also offer counselling and a safe house to the victims of abuse in the area.
Throughout the evening the women spoke to one another about their experiences and found comfort in each other’s support. Aladia wishes to set aside an evening for woman to come together and connect on a regular basis. To find out more about the event and future dates, contact Aladia Mohamed on 078 912 4011.
