Following a spate of femicides in Cape Town, a local kickboxing champion has opened her gym to give women free self-defence classes for the month of September.
Muay Thai fighter, Rayana Ameeroedien, says after seeing thousands of protesters calling for the violence against females to stop, she wants to give women and girls the tools to defend themselves against rapists and killers.
The free classes are being offered at Ray’s Muay Thai Fitness Academy, situated at the youth centre, Phoenix House, School of Industries in Plantation Road, Ottery.
Ray says those who find the classes helpful are welcome to join up as paying members after September.
The first class started on 1 September, and since then dozens of women and girls have shown up to learn how to give boewe a vrouepak.
FULL HOUSE: Muay Thai fighter Ray Ameeroedien and class
Ray has invited women from neighbourhood watches and community policing forums to spread the news in their communities and classes take place on Saturday mornings.
She says since the beginning of September, the usually packed gym has had even more visitors and trainees “revved up to kick ass”.
Ray says the violent deaths of several women in Cape Town - including that of two 19-year-old university students, and 14-year old Janika Mello from Heinz Park who was found raped, murdered and bludgeoned to death in her own backyard - have touched her deeply.
She says the need for women to be able to protect themselves has become critical and not only does Muay Thai teach self-defence, but it also strengthens the body.
“I would encourage all women in South Africa to participate in the sport because it not only gives you self-confidence, boosts your self-esteem and develops your fitness, but it also has the added benefit of self-defence, which is imperative living in our communities,” she says.
The new trainees that joined the class walked out tired, but more confident about facing a potential threat.
Ray's Muay Thai Fitness Academy in Ottery. Picture supplied
Zelda Wilson, 35, from Ottery, says she has joined the classes four weeks in a row and is loving the sudden muscle definition in her arms and legs.
“I live alone with my two boys, and being afraid that someone will grab them while I’m reversing the car or grab me as I come home is a constant fear.
“I feel stronger, almost like I am a better mommy, because I feel like I can protect my children and myself,” Zelda says.
To arrange a free training session, contact the academy on 073 077 7040.