WONDER WOMEN

A powerful candlelight service was held in Athlone and saw six policing sub-districts gather to honour fallen heroes and celebrate women’s strengths.

The event was hosted by the City of Cape Town District Women’s Network, an organisation dedicated to empowering and supporting women within the policing precincts of the Cape Town district.

They worked along with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the event was held on Thursday at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone to commemorate the 69th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Jayce Naidoo said women from various policing precincts came together to celebrate their victories and remember victims for gender violence.

Naidoo explained: “This auspicious occasion saw women from various policing precincts gather to reflect on the historical struggles and triumphs of women in our nation. 

“The South African Police Service aims to inspire and empower female members to continue to strive for leadership and equality in their respective fields.”

Retired police official Lieutenant-General Sharon Jephta delivered the keynote address and a message of support was presented by the district Major-General Dyantyi.

Dyantyi urged women to “stand up and take up their rightful place within the male-dominated world” as women play a crucial role in SAPS and communities.

Local pastor Vincent “Die Arend” Alexander also delivered a spiritual testimony about how God uses broken things to heal the world.

Naidoo added: “His message resonated deeply with the attendees, reminding them that no matter how broken you might be, God has a purpose and will use you in a perfect way."

“The central theme of his sermon was that if you are broken, you are still worthy in the eyes of God. You Are Blessed.”