‘YEAR OF THE WOMAN’ EVENT
St Peter’s Prep Schools held a Year of the Woman event on Thursday, 3 August 2017 - as a culmination of the Diversity Committee’s dedication of 2017, to women. A plaque was unveiled, in the Chapel, and blessed to mark the celebration of women’s accomplishments. An explanation of the inscription, on the plaque, was given: ‘Wathinta Abafazi, Wathintha Imbokodo’ – translated, this means, ‘You strike a woman, you strike a rock.’
A brief overview of the women’s march held on 9 August 1956 was given, with reference to the annual National Women’s Day now observed on 9 August.
After a light breakfast and a special service for women, Mama Gcina Mhlophe addressed parents and the Grade 5, 6 and 7 boys and girls. Mama Gcina is a poet, playwright, author, international consultant, keynote speaker and renowned storyteller. She related parts of her own ‘South African story’ and inspired the many women in the audience, to shape their own paths. She focused on resilience, bouncing-back from adversity, believing in self, building self-confidence, persevering, promoting our heritage, being optimistic and taking on leadership roles in our country.
This was an opportunity for women to reflect on their lives and feel proud of the important role, which they play in society and in their families. An emotional address, which even brought some tears, but ended with well-earned applause and appreciation for the achievements of women.
This was a wonderful display of appreciation for the women in our lives – a high note on which to conclude the ‘Year of the Woman’ initiative.
