Bursary for extension cord assault victim

Support has poured in for Gabriella Engels, who was recently assaulted at a Sandton hotel.

Two women have secured a bursary for Engels so she can complete a make-up artistry course at Face to Face Beauty & Make-up Design School.

Engels, 20, made headlines after being assaulted, allegedly by Zimbabwe’s first lady Grace Mugabe, in a Sandton hotel room.

IOL reported that Angela Botha from Kommetjie acted as a link between the beauty school’s prin- cipal, Shirley Wenman, and AfriForum. Botha said she considered Engels to be a brave role model.

“Some people picked on her and said nasty things. Her fight then became my cause. I contacted AfriForum and they were delighted,” Botha said.

Wenman saw a message of support on a Facebook community group and asked Botha to liaise with AfriForum.

“After reading about how she was assaulted and seeing the wounds, my heart broke. My first thought was that make-up would be able to cover the scar she will have on her forehead for the rest of her life. I then read that she had refused a bribe and I needed to do something to show I admire her,” Wenman said.

Willie Spies, AfriForum’s legal representative, said it would encourage Engels to consider the offer of the bursary.

“Ultimately, it is her decision but it is an opportunity we will discuss with her,” Spies said. – Caxton News Service