GBV victims given key to economic empowerment
A GROUP of 31 victims of genderbased violence have taken a great step forward in their recovery after enjoying a week-long economic empowerment programme with LifeLine Zululand.
‘While GBV victims are given assistance in terms of safety, shelters and psycho-social support, the reality is that they often remain financially dependent on the abuser, and this is what we addressed,’ said LifeLine’s Victim Empowerment Programme manager, Nompilo Maphumulo.
A team of professionals spent the entire past week equipping the ladies with the skills and knowledge in three incomegenerating spheres: baking, beadwork and nails & make-up.
The training also included selling and marketing of their services as well as making informed life and business decisions.
The project was funded by the Department of Social
Development Zululand uMkhanyakude districts and participants were selected from as far afield as Pongola, KwaMsane, Hlabisa and Manguzi.
Each participant received a certificate of proficiency at a gala dinner on Saturday evening at the Bayshore Inn, where they had all been accommodated for the week. They were also presented with starter packs which would enable them to immediately proceed with income generation.
‘By giving them the skills and the means to become breadwinners, the cycle of abuse can be broken,’ said Maphumulo. ‘Each participant will be tracked for a year and be given whatever assistance and exposure they need to grow their mini businesses and ensure they continue receiving the necessary mentoring support on all levels.’
The LifeLine effort was warmly endorsed by guest speaker, BWA chairperson Jabu Dlamini, herself highly qualified academically in social work, psychology, life skills and related counselling fields.
Powerfully addressing the newly-empowered victims, Dlamini said: ‘You have endured painful experiences, but you still have life ahead to explore with your potential and your talents.
‘Where to from here? You have acquired skills and knowledge, now it all starts in your mind; you must believe in yourself and expose yourself to good thinkers, while avoiding negative people.
‘Don’t let the past define your life and your future, and remember: grudges and revenge will hinder your progress.’
*Open your PixzAR app and scan the framed image to watch footage from the event