‘A strong woman knows that she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows that it is in the journey where she will become strong’ − Luke Easter.
This quote by Luke Easter describes women , when faced with adversity, experience the true power of resilience during challenging and painful life changing events. We live in a society where we are constantly dealing with patriarchal norms as women in thriving for a staunch advocacy to have authentic champions of women empowerment. Providing women a seat at the table is not sufficient, however − we require a voice that will provide tangible solutions to the daily challenges faced by women.
These champions are our grandmothers, mothers, aunts, sisters, and women leaders in business and government who form part of a bigger strategic vision which is to amplify the presence of women in society in a movement that promises to enrich the daily lives of women in society. However, we can’t ignore the systemic barriers that persist − access to funding, mentorship, patriarchal norms, socio-cultural hurdles, and more. These challenges continue to stand as formidable obstacles that impede women’s progress.
In August, South Africans commemorate the bravery of more than 20 000 women who on 9 August 1956 marched to protest the extension of Pass Laws to women under the apartheid regime. The protest was led by Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, and the events of this day demonstrate the sheer determination and bravery of the mothers who were symbolising the struggles of women. When I reflect on journey of the women’s march of 1956, when they were at the helm of fighting justice in women’s rights, I see a tapestry rich with stories of tenacity, resilience, and ambition.
The month of August highlights the challenges we face as women in addressing gender oppression, patriarchy, sexism and racism in building an environment that enables women to live their full potential in society. In building up to Women’s Month, globally we celebrated the UN’s international Women’s Day on 8 March 2024 under the theme ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’. Underpinning the theme, women understand that addressing the challenges of gender inequality, socio-economic issues and poverty is imperative for a safer, healthier and more equal world for women. Despite many crises being faced by women, resilience triumphs as a common thread woven in our DNA.
The American Psychological Association (APA) defines resilience as ‘the process of positive adaptation in the face of adversity trauma, tragedy or significant stress.’. Reflecting on my own life journey: I had to practise personal resilience in the face of difficulty, surviving a hijacking ordeal while I was pregnant and driving alone with my minor children. The trauma of being a crime victim is one that alters your life. Professionally I was transitioning from a middle management role in pursuit of advancing in my career. I had to learn to live and function with the after-effects of this life-altering situation, adjusting to new work responsibilities, and nurturing my family life.
This is just one of my personal reflections on how the journey of life has taught me how to be resilient. There are many untold stories of women who discovered the strength of personal resilience in adapting to life changes. These women serve as a beacon of hope and light for those experiencing challenging life situations. I believe when we share own stories as women we ignite the flame of women’s empowerment ever brighter.
Author
Nyawa Dikwayo CA(SA), Director at NTGSolutions and Board member of South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
