Officers go extr
Sgt Melicia Abrahams and Sgt Carl Zass from Athlone Police Station were recently honoured by the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community for all their hard work, dedication and commitment in serving the community of Athlone, especially with assistance after domestic violence and harassment
Being a victim of domestic violence
herself, Abrahams says the award means a lot to her, especially in Women’s Month
“I was married and my ex-husband not only abused me physically, but also mentally, emotionally, psychologically and financially
“I just decided God doesn’t want me to stay in a marriage or situation where I am less than myself and am undermined
“When I joined the police force I saw what other people were going through and decided to be the difference and be the voice of the voiceless by putting a smile on someone ’ s face I also have a hug-ministry and some have said the hug made the differ-
ence, ” explains Abrahams Her advice for people going through domestic violence is that they must stop suffering in silence
“The victims of domestic violence suffer in silence because they think if the man or husband leaves they will be financially embarrassed
“They also think their child or children must have a mommy and a daddy, but as Dr Phil said on television, children should rather come from a broken home than live in one Women stay in the relationship or marriage because they are financially dependent on the man or husband
“I used myself as an example, when I went to the social workers to get
the custody of my son, I was told, ‘ you are unemployed and your family has a history of alcoholism’ When I was told by the social worker that I’ll never get my child because I cannot provide for him, I stayed in the marriage,” she says For Women’s Day she wrote a poem for all female police officers as a tribute to what their daily lives look like “When I was a child I used to travel from Factreton to school with my
p g stories or rapping on the station, but I never published the short stories or poems, due to lack of support,” she says Both were commended for their efficiency, effectiveness and commitment to their duties to the Bhorat Centre at Athlone Police Station
Their services have not always been limited to domestic violence and harassment but both also being willing to assist or advise wherever they are able to
AVRIL FILLIES
Walk’s closing date looms
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
When the first Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk kicked off 57 years ago, Stanley Meiring was only 17 years old and could never have imagined that the R158 that he raised while walking would help lay the foundation for a cause that continues to change lives today
The annual event will take place on Sunday 31 August at the Green Point Common Sports Ground And those hoping to take part are reminded that the closing date for registration is at midnight on Sunday 17 August
Now in its 57th year, Blisters for Bread is not just a walk it’s a movement Each year, thousands gather in solidarity to help the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) combat child hunger by raising vital funds to provide daily meals to learners across the Western Cape Meiring (74) still fondly remembers his first walk
“I was in matric at the time And we were told we must walk 19
miles (over 30 km’s) from Simon’s Town to Savio College in Lansdowne Father Preston said the walk was for a worthy cause and that they were going to raise funds for the Peninsula School Feeding Association ”
Meiring explained that he and his fellow classmates took on the challenge without hesitation “All we were told was to wear comfortable shoes We didn’t have any of the fancy shoes that are available today We just wore normal takkies and some wore their school shoes When you are 17 years old you just walk, we didn’t feel the distance we had to walk ” He says he’s proud to have been part of the first Blisters for Bread Walk, a moment that still holds special meaning decades later “You don’t realise at the time the impact that the few cents that you raised makes I raised R158 and that was a lot of money at the time As a group we raised a substantial amount at the time
Meiring said he last took part in Blisters for Bread in 2018 when the event celebrated its 50th anniversary
“Myself and five other learners
who did the first walk joined We only did the 5km then But it was great catching up with everyone after so many years ”
Meiring encouraged people to lace up and do their bit “Just do it It is for a worthy cause, ” he said Each R100 entry fee feeds a child both breakfast and lunch for a day Official event T-shirts are available at R150 Only online entries will be accepted, and participation is limited to 8 000 walkers . For enquiries,contact Top Events at info@topevents.co.za or WhatsApp on 066 139 4210 To register visit www psfa org za
Keepyourguardupagainstscammers
With scammers lurking at every corner and online, the South African Institute of Auctioneers (Saia) has issued a stern warning to the public to exercise extreme caution when searching for second hand goods, especially vehicles
Saia says more South Africans are increasingly finding themselves on the wrong side of a “well-oiled scam ” involving criminals cloning the websites and advertisements of legitimate auctioneers and banks and tricking unsuspecting buyers into paying hefty deposits for cars that don’t exist
The institute urges buyers to use company portals rather than finding vehicles on social media platforms It also warns buyers
to look out for red flags “When considering bidding for a vehicle buyers should also look for any red flags and remember if the car seems too cheap or the deal too good to be true, it probably is,” cautions the institute Sonja Styger, Chief Administration Officer at Saia, says the scams most often originate on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, where cars are advertised well below market value and “reserved” for buyers willing to pay upfront However, she says under South African law no auction asset may be sold at a fixed price
“Yet these so-called sellers offer vehicles at predetermined prices and press buyers to pay a deposit
to avoid the car ‘going to auction’,” she says “It’s a blatant red flag as these scamsters know the general public may not understand how auctions work An auction doesn’t have a fixed price, the highest bid when the hammer falls determines the price ”
In many cases, cloned adverts feature photos of vehicles scraped from the internet Fraudsters pose as legitimate auctioneers with stolen branding and cloned websites right down to official-looking WhatsApp business accounts and email signatures
The big difference of course is the bank details they provide are fake and once the money clears the fraudsters disappear
THEREARECLEARWARNINGSIGNS:
.Payment requested via WhatsApp or direct bank transfer
.No verifiable company registration or physical address
.Poorly written ads with vague vehicle information
.No refundable deposit
Viewing any asset is imperative, never pay money over to anyone unless you have physically inspected an item and are completely satisfied with the condition of the asset
Stick to Saia-registered auctioneers and check any credentials on a verified list of members at www auctioneering co za, with contact details to verify any social media listing or auction advertisement
Bringbackvinylsandthesenseofcommunity
A JOURNO’S VOICE
Nostalgia: a sentimental yearning for return to or of some past period or irrecoverable condition
In spite of the speed of modern life, it’s interesting to see our society still clutching to memories of the past through movie remakes, music sampling and even in our fashion trends we see today The general consensus seems to say we ’ re becoming more nostalgic and crave the glamour of the nineties and early two thousands or as some call it, the “Y2K” era
Whether l’m seeing punk piercings or Nike Air Max’s it still evokes a sense of comfort to simpler times for me, when we didn’t have to inspect a photo or video twice to ensure it wasn’t artificially generated It’s amusing to see the younger generations today donning the baggy clothing and oversized jeans we rocked in the nineties which for me seemed such a festive and celebratory decade
Those years Brit pop was ruling the airwaves, Manchester United dominated the Premier League, Hip-Hop and R&B were in their
golden age while films like Titanic and The Matrix packed theatres to the brim
Sadly, cinemas today seem like ghost towns unless audiences are queuing for remakes of action blockbusters like Jurassic Park or superhero movies and the endless sequels attached to them
The increasing movie ticket prices aren’t helping the situation either Now, most movies and series seem like poor regurgitations of the past trying to recapture the hype and fascination we once had when we saw Harry Potter as kids for the first time I understand, we crave stability and comfortability, when we worried less about our bills, the frightening technological innovations and how our companies are managing this crippling economy, these remakes could remind us of a time when we relaxed playing video games or hanging out with friends
In those days, when physical media still existed, our shelves were stacked with DVDs and even magazines Back when we listened to music and video stories where people could hang out, rent a movie, preview an album at the store before buying it and even making a friend or two out of a shared interest Sadly these stores have become
very rare I think people enjoy and yearn for a sense of community, a refuge from their stressful lives when they can congregate on a Saturday, switch off from the Internet, chat and find a friend who shares your passions
Instead it seems we ’ re becoming increasingly divided on various topics such as: politics, religion and gender Now it seems people are starting more “fan-clubs” dedicated to hating a certain group that doesn’t share their ideologies, now it seems trendier to troll and mock people and post it as funny content It brings me some joy to hear pop music mimicking the drums patterns of the Brit pop era and seeing the younger generations embracing it I just fear it if they could become stuck in reliving this aesthetic, instead of paving their own unique path and setting their own trends Interestingly, despite how many of us are using our cellphones for music, transport, reading the news, it’s nice to see book stores still thriving Of course, many still read books online but as you ’ ve heard before, it’s hard trying to replicate the comfort that paperback books ooze when it comes to the smell of the pages, the look of the font and even paging to a new chapter
Perhaps the overstimulation and fear we experience as citizens where we ’ re drowning in content, traumatic news, Al-generated media, it seems we hardly have a moment to be slowed down, relax and bask in the wonder of not always rushing to be informed on a certain topic You could scroll for days looking for a movie or series to binge on Netflix these days Who knows, maybe physical media could slowly make a comeback like the return of vinyls which soared in sales after the pandemic I still miss those days when you picked up an album by one of your favourite artists, gazed at the album art and reading the booklets to find out what musicians played on the record Back when you inserted the CD or let the needle hit the vinyl and allowed yourself to be transported by the music and even danced without having to text, be on Instagram or have multiple tabs open on your phone I think a quote from one of Tom Wait’s songs might suffice to capture our unease at the uncertainty the future poses and our addiction for simpler times, “ you wore the same kind of perfume you wore when we met, I suppose there’s something comforting in knowing what to expect”
Keanan Harmse
The annual event will take place on Sunday 31 August at the Green Point Common
Search for three vehicle thieves
The Athlone Police Station is seeking the help of the public in solving a case of carjacking that occurred on Tuesday 5 August at 04:00 in the parking lot behind Shoprite in Gatesville.
“The incident occurred on the day older people received their Sassa grant and some elderly leave their homes early to queue at the outlets where they receive their grant,” said Sgt Zita Norman, spokesperson for the Athlone Police Station
Norman said three unknown men approached two sisters while sitting in their vehicle, a white Opel Corsa bakkie One of the women had a disabled child “Three unknown men approached them, then one tapped a firearm on the window and demanded the victim remove the bag from around her neck, and she complied The mother
MOTORISTS ARE APPEALED TO BE MORE VIGILANT ,IF ONLY TO PREVENT CRIME.
of the child was then pulled out of the vehicle and thrown on the ground All the men then got into the car with the child still in the back and sped off A while later someone came to report that the child was lying in the road No shots were fired “The value of the vehicle is about R40 000,” she said Witness can contact the Athlone police on 021 697 9238/39 ”
Norman appealed to motorists to be vigilant and scan the area where they choose to park, to prevent such criminal activity from occurring
NedDoman’sGr12learners excelinhospitalityexams
AVRIL FILLIES
Grade 12 learners at Ned Doman High School in Athlone excelled in their practical examination in hospitality studies on Saturday 26 July at the school
“This is not the first time the learners have excelled and once again demonstrated their exceptional skills in the hospitality industry,” Badriyyah Matthews, the hospitality studies teacher, pointed out “The hospitality studies programme at the school has a proven track record of producing talented individuals Many alumni have secured positions in restaurants, both locally and abroad, with one notable graduate currently working on a cruise ship ” The learners prepared and served a fourcourse meal based on “ super foods” for a representative of the Athlone Police Station as well as guests of the school community and governing body
To say the guests were impressed with the preparation of the meal and the serving of each dish was an understatement The menu was not only impressive, but learners highlighted their culinary skills and creativity
The menu featured dishes such as sweet potato and coconut soup and spinach-stuffed chicken The lunch was served at the school’s restaurant, providing a real-world setting for the learners to demonstrate their skills Matthews played a significant role in nurturing learners’ talents and preparing them for this crucial assessment Her commitment to excellence was evident in the learners’ outstanding performance
“The school continues to foster a culture of excellence and skill development The learners ’ achievement is a testament to their hard work and dedication,” says principal Gwynne Philander
Boysstandupforwomen’srights
In a remarkable display of leadership and solidarity, the boys of Bishops Diocesan College took a bold stand on Women’s Day by organising and leading a silent protest to raise awareness around the urgent issue of gender-based violence (GBV)
The peaceful march took place along Campground Road, where learners from various grades walked in respectful silence, holding placards and banners that called for respect, equality, and safety for all women The initiative was guided by the school’s Diversity, Equality, and Belonging (DEB) committee alongside the learners’ leadership teams, who worked tirelessly to coordinate the event and ensure its impactful delivery
“We could not be prouder of our boys for the powerful initiative they led this morning in honour of Women’s Day and to raise awareness around gender-based violence,” the school said in a heartfelt Facebook post “With hearts full of purpose and voices united, they organised and led a peaceful, silent protest along Campground Road Their message was clear: respect, equality, and safety for all women This is what lead-
ership looks like This is how change begins ”
The event is a powerful reminder that young people are at the forefront of social change and can be effective agents in challenging the culture of violence and inequality that continues to affect communities worldwide By taking part in this silent protest, the learners demonstrated a commitment to creating a safer and more just society
Penny Van Zyl, a parent, expressed her admiration: “So proud to be part of the Bishops family ”
Her sentiment reflects the strong support from parents who appreciate the school’s role in nurturing compassionate, socially conscious young men
The initiative also exemplifies how educational institutions can inspire and empower learners not only academically but also morally, preparing them to be responsible leaders who advocate for justice and equality
As the nation marks Women’s Month, actions like this from the youth send a hopeful message, that change is possible when the next generation stands united against violence and discrimination
Spinach-stuffed chicken served with lemon dill sauce, Duchess sweet potatoes and vegetables with Bulgar wheat was the main course.
Grade 12 learners of Ned Doman High School with guests at the practical hospitality studies exams in the school’s restaurant Attending the practical exams were (front, from left): Shireen Sadien, Badriyyah Mathews, Maggie Mbatane, Zerina Barendilla, Bertha Sam and Sgt Zita Norman, spokesperson for Athlone Police Station PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Bishops boys hold placards that call for respect, equality, and safety for all women PHOTO: SUPPLIED
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Heroes and strong women
Lalelainspiresboldfutures
NAMHLAMONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
In the warm, welcoming space of Bertha House in Mowbray, the sound of laughter, music, and lively conversation filled the air as girls from across Cape Town gathered for a Women’s Day celebration unlike any other Hosted by the non-profit arts-education organisation Lalela, the event brought together participants from its Female Empowerment Programme, including learners from Silikamva High School, Hout Bay High School, Masiphumelele High School and Thandokhulu High School , under the theme Becoming Her: Bold, Brave and Beautiful For Lalela, the day was more than marking a date on the calendar It was a chance to create a safe, creative space where young women could fully embrace who they are unapologetically and without judgment, while receiving encouragement and guidance from female mentors who have walked similar journeys “We wanted our girls to have a
space where they can be unapologetically themselves, embraced, celebrated, and guided by women who believe in them,” said Firdous Hendricks, Executive Director of Lalela
“It’s about planting seeds of confidence and courage that will continue to grow long after the day is over ”
CREATIVITYASAPATHTOCONFIDENCE
The day’s activities were as vibrant as the girls themselves
One of the highlights was a tote bag decorating session, a creative continuation of an earlier 67-minute public art activation held at the V&A Waterfront in honour of Nelson Mandela Day
Each tote bag became a personal canvas, adorned with colours, words, and images that reflected each participant’s personality and aspirations
Inside the bags, Lalela had placed hygiene packs containing sanitary towels, journals, and lip glosses, small but thoughtful gifts to remind the girls to care for their bodies, their minds, and their self-expression
MENTORSFROMTHEHEARTOFTHE COMMUNITY
The celebration also centred around mentorship Female role models, drawn from Lalela’s partner communities, professional networks, and their circle of friends, volunteered their time to sit with the girls, listen to their stories, and share their own
In one interactive exercise, participants chose cards with words and phrases, then discussed what each meant to them These simple yet profound conversations opened the door to reflections on identity, resilience, and ambition
THEPOWEROFWORDS
The most stirring moment came when a Lalela leadership participant took the microphone to perform a heartfelt poem on what it means to be a woman Her voice, at times soft and at others ringing with conviction, drew nods, smiles, and spontaneous applause from the room “The day was about being brave and fearless, owning the space you walk into, and daring to dream big,” Hendricks explained
BEYONDWOMEN’SDAY
For the girls who attended, the celebration was a reminder that their voices matter, their dreams are valid, and their futures are theirs to shape
As the afternoon wound down, tote bags, now heavy with art supplies and personal meaning, were slung over shoulders The girls left Bertha House chatting excitedly, their steps a little lighter, their heads held a little higher
Lalela’s commitment to empowering youth through the arts continues beyond this event
Through its Female Empowerment Programme, the organisation offers weekly after-school sessions in academic support, self-development, and leadership, equipping young women from under-resourced areas to navigate life with confidence and purpose
.To learn more about Lalela’s work, visit www lalela org or follow them on
NAMHLAMONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
As Women’s Month started women officers from Mowbray police took centre stage in a large-scale integrated roadblock operation aimed at promoting commuter safety and raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV)
The operation, held on Klipfontein Road and led by Station Commander Lt Col Cleo Arnoldus, brought together 30 women and eight male officers from the police, City’s law enforcement, and private security companies
The team stopped and searched 194 vehicles, issued 70 traffic fines amounting to R48 800, and handed out 250 educational pamphlets focused on GBV and commuter safety
Two Uber vehicles were impounded for non-compliance, reflecting the operation’s strict enforcement of transport regulations
Arnoldus explained that the roadblock was part of ongoing efforts to curb crime in the province, particularly targeting unlicensed firearms, illegal substances, stolen goods, and ensuring driver compliance and vehicle roadworthiness
“The operation was designed not only to enforce the law but to send a strong message during Women’s Month about the leadership role women officers play in community safety,” she said “Having women take the lead in such a large-scale operation highlights their growing presence and influence in frontline law enforcement ”
Despite the operation’s strong enforcement results, no arrests were
made, only fines were issued, and two vehicles were impounded
Arnoldus noted that organising a women-led roadblock poses unique challenges
“At times, male drivers don’t always adhere to instructions from women officers, which can complicate enforcement,” she said “But this operation was a powerful show of force and women ’ s power ” Community response was overwhelmingly positive Residents expressed admiration for the women officers’ professionalism and leadership during the roadblock
“The community was impressed by the different strength women brought to the operation,” said Arnoldus
“As we handed out pamphlets, more questions came from the public, showing the value of engaging directly with residents on important issues like GBV and road safety ”
The pamphlets covered key topics, including how to recognise signs of GBV and where to seek help, alongside commuter safety tips
Mowbray police have indicated this operation is just the first of several public safety and community engagement efforts planned throughout August
“Women’s Month is not only about celebration but also about action,” Arnoldus said “We want to empower women in the community and within the police service alike, ensuring safety for all ”
With women officers taking the lead, this roadblock sets a strong tone for Women’s Month in Mowbray , showing that when women rise, the entire community benefits
Naidoo, Maj Gen Sizakhele William Dyantyi, Shanita George, Amina Visser and Ronel Gouws PHOTOS: SUPPLIED Amina Visser lights the candle while Brig Phindiwe Ntungele, Lt Gen (retired) Sharon Jaftha, Brig Brian Muller and Capt Mary-Ann Naidoo look on.
In the warm, welcoming space of Bertha House in Mowbray, the sound of laughter, music, and lively conversation filled the air as girls from across Cape Town gathered for a Women’s Day celebration unlike any other PHOTO SUPPLIED Safety,GBVroadblock
Roadblock operation aimed at promoting commuter safety and raising awareness about gender-based
Lifesavers put through test
TEnemyno1oftenhiddenin home’screvices–mould
Fungal spores are all around us, and mould can quickly develop in damp areas of the home, often unnoticed and out of sight
Dr Raisa Bhikoo, a pulmonologist and specialist physician practising at Netcare N1 City Hospital, says awareness and prevention should be a priority for all, as prolonged exposure to mould can potentially lead to long-term health effects
Bhikoo warns that mould exposure, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor environments, can lead to a variety of health symptoms
“It’s noteworthy that while mould can trigger symptoms in many people, the severity and type of reaction can vary widely depending on an individual’s health status and level of exposure ”
The doctor says even without a formal diagnosis, constant low-grade symptoms such as fatigue, coughing or sinus pressure can take a toll on daily functioning and mental well-being
COMMONMOULD-RELATEDSYMPTOMSINCLUDE:
. Upper respiratory symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and sinus pressure
. Lower respiratory symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness, are especially common in people with asthma or chronic lung disease
. Eye, skin, and throat irritation, which may feel like a burning or itching sensation
. Exacerbation of asthma or allergic rhinitis: Individuals with pre-existing respiratory allergies or asthma may experience worsened symptoms or more frequent attacks
. Fatigue and general malaise have also been reported in individuals with prolonged mould exposure, albeit difficult to attribute directly
Bhikoo says ongoing mould exposure can lead to persistent sinus or airway inflammation, resulting in chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps or new-onset allergic rhinitis She says people with certain underlying health conditions – particularly asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems – are at higher risk of experiencing health issues related to mould exposure
MOULDEXPOSURECANBEWORSEFORPEOPLE WITH:
. Asthma: Mould spores can be a trigger, causing increased wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing or asthma attacks Often chronic exposure makes asthma uncontrollable
. Allergic rhinitis or sinusitis: People with allergies, especially to airborne particles like dust mites or pollen, are more likely to develop symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, postnasal drip and itchy eyes
. Weakened immune systems: This includes individuals undergoing chemotherapy, those with HIV, transplant recipients or people on long-term immune-suppressing medications
. Chronic lung conditions: Individuals with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or bronchiectasis may also be more susceptible, as mould can exacerbate inflammation and infection susceptibility She says early intervention can prevent complications from mould exposure and significantly improve quality of life
Tips for tackling mould in the home
Limit your exposure:
. Stay out of the affected area, if possible, especially if you have asthma, allergies or a weakened immune system
. If you must enter the area, wear a well-fitted N95 mask and gloves to avoid inhaling mould spores or touching contaminated surfaces
IMPROVEVENTILATION:
. Mould thrives in damp, stagnant environments, so improving ventilation can help slow its growth Open windows and use fans
. Use a dehumidifier if the air feels damp, ideally keeping indoor humidity below 50%
IDENTIFYANDSTOPTHESOURCEOFMOISTURE:
. Mould cannot grow without moisture Check for leaks in roofs, pipes, windows or walls, and address them immediately
. If there’s flooding or water damage, dry the affected areas within 24 to 48 hours
CLEANSMALLAREASSAFELY:
. Small mould patches on hard surfaces can be cleaned with soap and water or diluted bleach (1 cup bleach to 3,7 litres of water)
. Avoid cleaning porous materials, such as carpets or ceiling tiles, which one can replace
CONSULTPROFESSIONALS:
. If the mould covers more than about 1 m² or if it returns contact a mould-remediation specialist, who can remove it and identify hidden sources of moisture or growth (eg behind walls or under floors) “If you develop respiratory symptoms, skin irritation or worsening asthma see a doctor,” Bhikoo says “Early treatment and removal from exposure can prevent long-term effects ”
Mould can quickly develop in damp areas of the home
The vaccine does not contain any live virus or DNA from the virus PHOTO: PEXELS
COSATU celebrates gender wins
To mark Women’s Day on Saturday 9 August, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) honoured the courageous women who, in 1956, marched to the Union Buildings to protest against apartheid pass laws
Their defiant stand proved that people are not powerless in the face of injustice and that through unity and collective action, they can shape the course of history
Cosatu also announced that it plans to celebrate its 40th anniversary in December as it was reminded of how women leaders made sure that the unique challenges faced by women on the shopfloor were made an integral part of the wider workers’ struggle In a press statement, Zanele Sabela, COSATU national spokesperson, said: “A key aspect of COSATU Workers’ Charter campaign in the
PAID MATERNITY AND PARENTAL LEAVE, EQUAL PAY FOR EQUAL WORK
late 1980s, whose aim was to ensure that workers’ rights and demands were included in the new constitution after apartheid, was the inclusion of women ’ s demands to address their unique set of challenges ”
Sabela said the eradication of all forms of discrimination against women in the workplace was among the demands
“So was the participation of women at leadership and all levels of government, trade unions, political parties, and all other mass organisations; along with the opposition of all forms of male chauvinism both inside and outside the home The charter was
also adamant that all adults would have the right to work and that a minimum wage should be set down ”
Nearly four decades later, COSATU boasts hard-won victories, including paid maternity and parental leave, equal pay for equal work, a National Minimum Wage (NMW) that has lifted 6 million workers out of poverty, the majority of whom are women and vulnerable
“The Code of Good Practice on Sexual Harassment ensures that both employers and employees are aware of their rights and the correct procedures to follow when incidents arise Women occupy leadership roles across key institutions in society, including at COSATU itself, Parliament, government and the judiciary,” explained Sabela
Sabela said women mineworkers still face challenges
“Women mineworkers have been subjected to strip searches at Ko-
panang Gold Mine This happened even though mining houses are counted among employers who are most keenly aware of the country’s health and safety legislation ”
According to Sabela, the enforcement of the NMW remains a challenge
“Even as right-wing organisations claim that implementation has led to the high rate of unemployment in the country and many employers refusing to comply However, despite being dangerously high at 43 1%, the unemployment rate amongst women clocked at a terrifying 47% in the first quarter of 2025 ”
Sabela said whilst great strides have been made to build a public service representative of society and one where women can reach the most senior of positions, the same cannot be said of the private sector where senior management remains male and pale nor of the JSE where women
shareholders are a minority
“More harrowing are the pervasive cases of gender-based violence and femicide that dominate headlines despite the country’s legal efforts to tackle this scourge ”
Sabela urged society to do more to ensure that the brutal murders of Olerato Mongale, Likhona Fose and Jayden-Lee Meek do not become “commonplace”
“We must ensure that the country’s criminal legislation is utilised fully to protect women, children and other vulnerable persons Law enforcement and related institutions must be appropriately resourced to ensure that perpetrators are caught, prosecuted and imprisoned ”
Sabela said while progress has been made since 1956 and since the formation of COSATU, more needs to be done to ensure women can claim their stake as equal partners in the country’s future
PerspectivessharedasWomen’sMonthcelebrated
With Women’s Day celebrated on Saturday 9 August, and Women’s Month celebrations underway, People’s Post reached out to some mothers to get their thoughts about the concept
Lorrein Katze said: “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world ” This phrase, by American poet William Ross Wallace, is more relevant today than when he wrote it in 1865 Being a woman to me means knowing your weakness and living your strength There are no stopping women who stand together for a greater good Today, more than ever, I believe we as women need to rediscover our sense of sisterhood and unite across different cultures, beliefs, and social barriers and once again become a force to be reckoned with Wathint’ abafazi, wathint’ imbokodo If you strike a woman, you strike a rock We are today because of what women before us stood against ” Judy Valentine said women can all relate to each other “We are part of a massive body of different people, different women, different cultures and religions One thing that is quite unique about being a woman is that even though we come from different backgrounds we have all experienced many joys, sorrows and by that we can all relate to each other ” Nomsa Maduna said:“We feel like we are not safe There is so much crime and financially we are struggling Some mothers and women also have to raise their children alone without any support from the fathers ” Thobeka Mketi said: “To me, being a woman in South Africa today means resilience and strength in the face of adversity We face unique challenges, from inequality to safety concerns, but we ’ re also breaking barriers and pushing boundaries It’s about embracing our power, supporting each other, and demanding our rights We’re not just survivors; we ’ re thrivers,
and we ’ re shaping the future of our country”
Asiphe Kulati described Women’s Day as embracing womanhood and being proud of who they are She said it also celebrates the role that was played by the women during the struggle However, she stated that these days they are facing tough times in society “We are not safe at all We are at risk of violence against women and children ”
Sandikazi Qhagana said to her Women’s Day means celebrating women ’ s effort to develop the country “To me, Women’s Day means women ’ s safety These days we are not safe as women and children in our societies We need to be protected at all costs And it mustn’t be a once-off thing It must be 365 days ”
Mikhaila Bruinders said: “Being a woman in SA today means having to take into consideration many different rudiments, most of which are (regrettably) to our disadvantage How do we ignore the daily violence against women and our children which makes our bodies vibrate with fear, constant discrimination in our workplace, pink tax, our bodies being objectified by strangers and all of this resting softly underneath a cloud of racial and cultural divide which is blatantly unashamed in some settings
Despite it all, we hold onto our small enjoyments: a mimosa with a friend, a shopping spree at the mall, a walk by the beach with our baby (but keep an eye out, “it’s not safe”) Thankfully our country is packed with beauty, making it easy to appreciate these little moments which set our spirits free; which will recharge our bodies and our minds, refuelling us to keep showing up and giving our best Would you prefer for me to sugarcoat our reality ? Where the softness of our spirit is used against us, forcing us to be strong and vigorous, “masculine” if you must It is a man ’ s world after all?”
Lorrein Katze
Judy Valentine
Nomsa Maduna
Thobeka Mketi
Asiphe Kulati
Sandikazi Qhagana
Mikhaila Bruinders
kykNET fest’s powerful offerings
Two Cape Town communities are in for a cinematic treat this August, as the City of Cape Town teams up with kykNET’s Silwerskerm Film Festival and Sunshine Cinema to host two free, solar-powered film screenings of local movies that speak straight to the heart
The screenings, set for Wynberg and Grassy Park, are part of Sunshine Cinema’s ongoing mission to bring powerful South African storytelling to the people for free and with the added bonus of clean energy
The first film, The Heart Is a Muscle, directed by Imran Hamdulay,
will be shown at the Wynberg Civic Centre on Wednesday 20 August at 19:00 A deeply moving drama, it follows Ryan, a father whose world begins to fall apart when his son disappears during a weekend braai
As memories of past trauma bubble to the surface Ryan is forced to face himself and learn that healing starts from within Hamdulay’s film is a raw, honest look at fatherhood, grief, and emotional growth
Two days later, on Thursday 22 August, the Grassy Park Civic Centre will host the screening of Finding Optel, a touching and humorous dramedy by sibling directing duo Jesse and Mikayla Brown The film centres on
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Cape Town’s HEAT Winter Arts Festival is back until Saturday 16 August, and audiences can look forward to over 13 exhibitions at some of the city centre’s leading art galleries, all within walking distance of one another
On the theme “Other Worldliness”, this year ’ s festival, a multi-genre programme, promises a stunning theatre and musical line-up that presents Cape Town’s rising singers, musicians, performers and theatre makers
Cape Town’s hottest emerging artists, from Sahlah Davids and Oupa Sibeko to Balekane Legoabe, Nada Baraka, Colijn Strydom, Bella Knemeyer and Ulrich Jantjes are showcasing works alongside renowned figures such as Gareth Nyandoro, Cathy Abraham, Joseph Ntensibe, Dan Halter, Richard Mudariki and Johann Louw
Unmissable music and art pairings are on display at the Iziko South African National Gallery, where the Motherhood: Paradox and Duality exhibition are heightened by the local choir Amici de Lumine
At the Norval Foundation, Sky Dladla is contributing to the evocative atmosphere of the works by Lucas Sithole and Cyprian Shilakoe at the They Came and Left Footprints exhibition
The Open Studio Event at Lemkus sees artists Mongezi Ncaphayi and Mhlonishwa Zulu, and illustrator
Russell Abrahams invite ticket holders into their studios, giving them access to the process of their art
On the stage expect an evocative mix of comedy, history and emotional depth, a programme curated by Fleur du Cap judge Ngkopoleng Moloi Tankiso Mamabolo stars in Don’t Believe a Word I Say, a poignant, co-
FILMS SHOWCASE
LOCAL TALENT AND GOOD STORYTELLING
16-year-old Claire Abrahams, who becomes a makeshift detective while searching for her neighbourhood’s missing dog What begins as a playful search turns into a journey of deeper meaning as Abrahams uncovers truths tied to her older brother’s mysterious disappearance nine years earlier With warmth and wit the story celebrates community resilience, memory and the quiet strength of a
determined young girl Both events promise more than just film In true Cape Town style, the evenings will be hosted by the charismatic Oscar Petersen, known and loved for his longstanding contributions to local arts He will also moderate post-screening Q&As with cast and crew, giving audiences the chance to connect more intimately with the creative minds behind the films
And if good cinema stirs the appetite food will be on hand to satisfy Local favourites such as The Wynburger and Halibi Treats will serve-up burgers, waffles, slushies and more
“It’s not just about watching a film,”
said Myles Arendse, Operations Manager at Sunshine Cinema “It’s about gathering as a community, reflecting on the stories that shape us, doing so in a way that honours both people and the planet We’re excited about bringing these screenings to Wynberg and Grassy Park, powered entirely by the sun ” Free tickets for both screenings are available on Quicket, but space is limited With strong local talent, heartfelt storytelling and community spirit at the core, these screenings are a celebration of Cape Town’s stories told by its own people and a reminder that cinema, when made accessible, can help light the way forward
CeCeWinans at Grand Arena
The Africa leg of popular Gospel singer CeCe Winans’ world tour includes shows in Cape Town on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 August at GrandWest’s Grand Arena
Entitled More Than This the tour promises to be a ground-breaking worship experience headlined by Winans
As a 15-time Grammy Award winner, the much-loved gospel singer has captivated hearts worldwide with her soulful and spirit-filled material that transcends generations Fresh from the release of her latest
album of the same title her repertoire features the chart-topping single
“That’s My King” and other timeless classics such as “Goodness of God” and “Holy Forever” Winans has embarked on what is her biggest and most far-reaching international tour yet Her ministry in song has touched millions of lives around the world
From intimate-worship moments to high-energy celebrations, each night of the More Than This world tour aims at inspiring, uplifting and transforming
Winans describes the tour as “ more than a concert” “It’s a call to worship for all believers, reminding us of the hope and love that transcends all boundaries,” she said Winans’ own express intention is to bring nations together in a powerful encounter with God’s glory as she continues to be a vessel for His message through her music She invites everyone to join her in this global celebration of faith
Doors open at 19:00 and each show runs from 20:00 to 23:00 . Tickets are available at Ticketpro
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Mike van Graan’s To Life, With Love featuring John Maytham, the highly-regarded Cape Talk host and trained actor, returns due to popular demand at the delightful pop-up theatre Societas Theatre in Kloof Street today (12 August)
medic solo performance that journeys through childhood memory and the fluid nature of truth
Cape Town’s boldest stand-up comics are bringing sharp social commentary in two events curated by Comedy-in-Commons, headlined by the indomitable KG Mokgadi
A bumper music programme curated by Quiet Life Co pulses with variety and soul
Singer-songwriter Jabulani Majola will woo audiences with his folksy and lyrical reflection on identity inspired by Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen
Female trio of artists MANA, Giulietta Price and Mishy Kope will forge new sonic territory across jazz, soul and Latin-infused soundscapes at the Lemkus Gallery
Yellow House will bring their Dream Pop ethereal sound to an event at the HUB Gallery with Maya Grey, a folk musician known for her evocative melodies and rich storytelling
Lukhanyo and the HI Rollers will close the festival with their dynamic brand of rap that fuses R&B, hip-hop, funk and jazz
A programme of arias centred on Dreams & Desires by Opera UCT, conducted by their acclaimed director Jeremy Silver staged at the Alliance Francaise, the festival hub will give audiences a special taste of this exceptional talent in this company
The festival hub is where visitors can find out about this cultural tour de force, attend a stimulating talks programme created by Art School Africa that probes Futurism, absorbing female artists into the art canon, turning Cape Town into a cultural capital and building sustainable careers in the performing arts . Tickets are available via Quicket
Directed by Josh Lindberg, the play premiered at Artscape in February and has played to sold-out houses at The Drama Factory in Strand, at the Franschhoek Literary Festival and at venues along the Garden Route, earning generous audience and critical responses wherever it has been performed To Life, With Love is on a threeweek run until Saturday 30 August
at Societas Theatre, a pop-up theatre in the hall of the DR church, 55 Kloof Street, Gardens (behind Tiger’s Milk and PostNet, opposite the Lifestyle Centre with its ample parking) Tickets are available through Quicket The hour-long performance runs on Tuesdays to Saturdays at 19:15 Tickets for today’s preview cost R107,85 and are also available at Quicket Tickets for Tuesday to Thursday cost R134,26 Friday and Saturday tickets cost R165,95 The play has an agerestriction of 13 . For more information or to use the show for fundraising or educational purposes contact Van Graan at 082 900 3349 or email art27m@iafrica com
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The Waterfront Theatre School (WTS) will stage In Flux, a bold new dance production that captures the ever-shifting human experience through four genre-spanning works
Patrons are invited to witness an evocative evening of movement, meaning and metamorphosis as dancers traverse the emotional and philosophical terrain of what it means to be in a constant state of flux
The play will be on at the WTS’s Lane Theatre from Wednesday 3 to Saturday 6 September
Curated as a four-part choreographic exploration, In Flux features
Intersect (Choreography: James Bradley), a neo-classical reflection on fleeting, often-unnoticed connections Through layered dynamics and intricately-crafted movement it captures the quiet beauty of lives that cross, whether consciously or unknowingly Ignite, a high-energy tap work, traces the evolution of flame, from embers to full blaze Tapping out rhythm, power and momentum, this explosive piece is a celebration of energy, intensity and ignition From Dark Silence is a visceral journey through contrast and clarity From stillness to awakening, dark-
ness to light, silence to sound, this immersive piece is a meditation on transformation and perception
ARTificial, a thought-provoking look at the evolution of communication, from ink and paper to AI
This piece examines how technology reshapes how we connect, express and understand the world In Flux is not simply a showcase of talent; it is a conversation in motion It speaks to the way change shapes connection, emotion and movement, reminding one that nothing stays still, and everything is in flux . Tickets are available via Quicket
“Ada in blue” by Olamide Ogunade up at the Christopher Moller Gallery PHOTO SUPPLIED
John Maytham in To Life, With Love
PHOTO: BRONWYN LLOYD
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