Beaten but not broken

Vanessa Govender will inspire women this Women’s Day with her story of possibilities and hope, that of a true survivor.

She will share her story at a special Women’s Day High Tea at Carnival City on August 9 to be held in the Rio Ballroom.

Vanessa, author of Beaten but not Broken, is a former award-winning eTV television news journalist and former SABC/Lotus FM radio news reporter. At the height of her journalism career, more than one million households across the country were familiar with her reportage on human suffering and triumph.

Vanessa, who has always chased the human angle of every news story she has covered, made a name for herself by revealing the emotions and suffering of the most downtrodden and destitute people.

All the while, however, this champion for the demoralised was hiding a shocking story of her own.

In her book she finally opens up about her deepest secret, one that so nearly ended her career in broadcast journalism.

Vanessa did the unthinkable as an Indian woman in breaking the ranks of a close-knit conservative community to speak out about her five-year-long hell in an abusive relationship.

She also speaks of her experiences of childhood bullying and being ostracised by some in her community for being a dark-skinned Indian girl.

“At a time when abuse is so rife and we as women are encouraged to take a stand against it, Vanessa’s story of horrendous abuse brings women hope.

“It will inspire women from all walks of life to take a stand against abuse.

“We are thrilled to have her at our high tea as guest speaker.

“She is dynamic and an inspiration to every woman who listens to her and leaves audiences feeling positive and very encouraged,” says Michelle Smith, marketing manager of Carnival City.

The high tea will be hosted by award-winning talk show host CJ Benjamin.

CJ has received numerous awards for her public service and is passionate about youth and women empowerment.

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