Celebrating the Winnie Mandelas in Eldos
"Our community is poverty stricken, infested with drugs and we have a very high unemployment rate. Most households are headed by women and these women struggle financially, emotionally and physically because of their living conditions."
According to ANC Youth League (ANCYL) chairperson, Finley Watson, the strong and powerful women in Eldorado Park needed to be celebrated and recognised this Women’s Month.
The ANCYL leader said in a statement that there were Winnie Mandelas living our community and we need to take time out to show them how much their efforts are seen and appreciated.
Watson, with the help of his mother Hazel Watson, organised a lunch for these strong women, leaders and activists in the Greater Eldorado Park community on Women’s Day in hopes that they could, at least for one day, take time off to relax, dress up and enjoy themselves.
“They serve our community and their families without asking for anything in return, on a daily basis, above everything, we wanted to serve them today,” said Watson.
Hazel said in a statement that she has come to know the lifestyles and circumstances of the people in Eldorado Park. “Our community is poverty stricken, infested with drugs and we have a very high unemployment rate. Most households are headed by women and these women struggle financially, emotionally and physically because of their living conditions,” she said.
“They have to deal with addiction and substance abuse in their homes, whether it is from their children or partners but they never give up, they always manage to put food on the table. They inspire me, that is why I decided to treat them this Women’s Day,” she added.
The event started with an opening prayer and welcoming speech. The women in attendance listened to spiritual encouragement and poems from the youth. “The rest of the afternoon was dedicated to relaxing and getting to know one another,” said Watson.
