Illovo Beach woman is fearless, fabulous and feminine
She has developed a programme through the organisation, Fearless, Fabulous and Feminine. This programme is aimed at teenage girls of all races, cultures and religion, and over 10 000 have benefited immensely.
Illovo Beach resident, Melina Singh, 47, is an author, radio personality, mother, wife, champion of women’s rights and co-founder of the JEMS Foundation. She takes on several roles in the community, however, she is especially passionate about educating young women. After hearing horror stories of primary school girls being subjected to gender-based violence, the passionate woman was inspired to be the change. With this in mind, she has developed a programme through the organisation, Fearless, Fabulous and Feminine. This programme is aimed at teenage girls of all races, cultures and religion, and over 10 000 have benefited immensely.
“We have conducted training sessions in over 25 different schools in the Durban South-Basin, including Isipingo, Luvo Township and KwaMakhutha. The topics we cover extensively are identity, destiny, sexuality and grooming, and feminine hygiene. We partner with various stakeholders such as SAPS to create greater awareness and influence. The programme has produced phenomenal results in a short period.”
Due to lockdown, Melina was unable to reach out to the masses, but she is now looking forward to making a meaningful impact within the community.
“I want to make a difference, even if we can assist one girl and help her overcome a life of abuse. When we empower women, we help raise the standard of living, alleviate poverty and build more stable communities. Let us make this the generation that achieves equality, empowerment and emancipation. We do not have the power to change the past and we do not have power over the future. We only have power about this very moment.”
Melina is married to Shailen and they have two children, Clarissa, 29, and Caleb, 23. Her hobbies include reading, writing and strolls on the beach.
ALSO READ: Community marches against gender-based violence
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