The PHATT Squad has thrown their weight behind gender-based violence and body positivity.
The “fuller figured” ladies from the Cape Flats showed off their curvy lywe in swimsuits at a PHATT Cookout at Goedverwachting Estate in Somerset West on Saturday.
The founder of Differently Beautiful, Melissa Smith, who is also the organiser of the PHATT Cookout, says the event aims to uplift plus-sized women and also spread the message that men shouldn’t see females as targets for violence.
“We wanted this event to be about body positivity and women empowerment, we want to create a safe environment for women who can walk around the venue in their swimwear freely without being judged,” she says.
“We want women to be comfortable in their bodies and wear what they want to and we also want them to be comfortable around males.”
The ladies got to live large for the day.
For entertainment, there was a line-up of 10 DJs, including DJ Portia, Fizz & Shai A, DJ Bradd Peacock and the TDL DJ Crew, as well as a performance by Vuvu Kumalo and her live band.
“The ladies were swimming, dancing and braaing,” says Melissa.
“We also had loads of prizes and received sponsored Covid-compliant goodies from Naturally Good, who made sure everyone was sanitised and masked up at all times.”
But the guys also got to share in the fun.
“Men attend as we want to teach them to respect women’s bodies and they too are showing their support of body positivity and standing up against GBV.”
Melissa wants all women to be comfortable in their bodies: “This is where we have created space for plus-size women to embrace their bodies and wear swimsuits with confidence, regardless of what society deems acceptable.
“The event was aimed at anyone who has had to deal with body and or fat shaming and name-calling.”