WOMEN’S MONTH CELEBRATION: EMPOWERING WOMEN TO LEAD, INSPIRE AND TRANSFORM
BOJANALA DISTRICT
The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management commemorated Women’s Month in Bojanala District with an empowering engagement aimed at celebrating women, promoting their wellbeing and strengthening their role in leadership and decision-making.
The event, hosted by the Gender Focal Point and Diversity Management Sub-Directorate, formed part of the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March, which continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience and determination of South African women.
The celebration brought departmental women together for a programme centred on empowerment, career development, health and wellness, gender equality and dialogue on issues affecting women.
Speakers encouraged women to support and uplift one another, emphasising that collective strength is essential in creating an environment where women can succeed.
A key focus of the day was the health and wellbeing of women. Participants benefited from various health services, including general health screenings, physiotherapy, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) services, language and speech therapy, and audiology services.
Dr Mpho Sandamela, Specialist Laparoscopic and Bariatric Surgeon, urged women to take greater responsibility for their overall health. She encouraged participants to understand their Body Mass Index (BMI) and make informed choices that contribute to healthier lifestyles.
Mr Fabian Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Medicare Private Hospital, delivered a presentation on occupational health in the workplace. He highlighted some of the challenges employees face in adapting to change and facilitated dialogue around issues that affect women in the workplace.
Delivering the keynote address, Director for Human Resource Management, Ms Thobeka Leteane, challenged women to continuously develop themselves academically and professionally to prepare for leadership opportunities.
Ms Leteane emphasised that developing and capacitating women for leadership is in line with the Head of Department’s Eight Principles, which advocate for the advancement of women into leadership positions.
“I encourage you to prioritise your career and continuously invest in your development so that you can position yourselves for leadership opportunities,” said Ms Leteane.
She further called on women to embrace unity and create a culture of support and mentorship.
“Let us be united and speak with one voice as women. Lift someone up as you rise,” she said.
The programme also created space to address some of the challenges affecting women, including Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), women’s mental health, cancer awareness and management.
The discussions provided an opportunity for participants to engage openly, share experiences and gain knowledge that can assist them in navigating both personal and professional challenges.
The celebration concluded with women expressing appreciation for the opportunity to connect, learn and encourage one another. Participants left the event inspired, empowered and motivated to take charge of their personal development, health and careers.
As the Department honours the legacy of the women of 1956, it remains committed to advancing gender equality, women’s empowerment, leadership development and an inclusive workplace where women can realise their full potential.
When women are empowered, communities, workplaces and institutions are strengthened.
