Spring ushered in a fresh wave of energy at the Killarney Country Club as Women in Social Economic Reform (Wiser) NPC held their annual spring soirée on September 1.
The event, themed Resilience, was a vibrant celebration of strength and determination, with all proceeds going towards the construction of a madrasa (Muslim college, university, or school) in Everton, Durban.
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Wiser was founded in 2016 by Shahista Thokan and has grown into a dynamic platform for empowering women in local communities. The organisation focuses on social and economic growth, emphasising education and self-sufficiency.
The decision to focus this year’s fundraising efforts on building a madrasa was deeply personal for the Wiser team. “Loss of identity, culture, and religion often stems from a lack of education,” Thokan explained. “These institutions provide a space of belonging and are crucial for community building.”
The spring soirée was more than just a fundraiser; it was a space for women to come together and share their stories of resilience. Zeenat Ganie, an internationally certified natural language processing (NLP) practitioner and life coach, delivered a powerful talk about embracing life’s uncertainties. Her message, rooted in the idea of a benevolent universe, resonated deeply with the audience. Rehana Shah Bulbulia, an author and humanitarian, shared her resilience journey, while Soummaya Loonat spoke about the challenges of balancing her roles as a mother and wife.
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The event also featured a fashion show, highlighting the work of local designers, Black Rose Abayas, Exclusive Designs, and Bling Happiness. “With the shift towards online shopping and global markets, local businesses have been struggling,” Thokan noted. “Supporting local entrepreneurs is essential for the survival of small businesses and the well-being of our communities.”
Looking to the future, Wiser has ambitious plans to expand its reach and deepen its impact. “Our focus is on empowering local communities, particularly in rural areas,” Thokan said. “We aim to make individuals self-sufficient and independent, starting in the home but concentrating on the youth with support for school fees, basic needs, and counselling.”
Their ultimate goal is to establish a community centre, which would provide a hub for workshops, events, and ongoing support for the communities they serve. “We operate on a collaborative platform, working with various causes, communities, and people. We intend to continue growing, expanding our reach, and making a lasting difference.”
For those interested in getting involved, Wiser offers numerous ways to contribute, whether through donations, volunteering, or sharing skills. “Follow us on Instagram: @w_i_s_e_r, to see our various projects,” Thokan encouraged. “Every bit of support helps us make a difference.”
As the spring soirée drew to a close, it was evident that resilience wasn’t just a theme – it was the very essence of Wiser and the women who drive its mission forward, ensuring that their communities thrive against all odds.
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