Women from across the community gathered at the Mayoral Parlour at the Alberton Civic Centre on May 23 for the “Her Voice, Her Worth, Her Vote” dialogue.

Discussions centred around empowerment, democracy, self-worth and the importance of women actively participating in society.

Hosted as a Women in Democracy Mother’s Day dialogue, the event created a platform for women to openly discuss the challenges they face in their communities, families and workplaces while encouraging them to recognise the value of their voices and influence.

According to organiser Lehlogonolo Madila, the dialogue was inspired by the recognition of the important role women play within communities.

“What inspired the idea behind Her Voice, Her Worth, Her Vote dialogue was recognising the strength and influence women have within their communities.

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Women from across the community gathered at the Mayoral Parlour at the Alberton Civic Centre on May 23 for the “Her Voice, Her Worth, Her Vote” dialogue. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za

♬ original sound – Alberton Record

“Women are often at the centre of raising children, protecting educational rights, ensuring safety, and holding communities together despite many struggles,” said Madila.

Madila explained that the dialogue aimed to encourage women to understand their worth and use their voices to help shape society and leadership.

“By recognising their worth, strengths, and understanding of societal challenges, women are empowered to make informed decisions and choose leaders who truly represent the needs and interests of the people,” Madila added.

The event also highlighted the importance of women’s participation in democracy and leadership decisions.

“One of the key highlights was hearing women emphasise that voting and leadership decisions are not only about the present but about building a better future for the next generation and for their children,” said Madila.

Among the guest speakers was author Michelle Roniak, who shared her deeply personal journey of battling body dysmorphic disorder, eating disorders and struggles with self-acceptance.

Roniak, author of Undone, said she decided to honour the invitation because she wanted to raise awareness of the issues many people silently struggle with.

“I want to spread awareness on what I went through. It’s so prevalent in today’s age in terms of beauty standards and this neurotic need to want to stay young and thin,” she said.

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Women gathered at the Alberton Civic Centre to discuss empowerment, democracy, leadership and the importance of using their voices to influence change. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za

♬ original sound – Alberton Record

She explained that she started writing her book more than 25 years ago after a psychologist encouraged her to document her experiences while battling bulimia and anorexia.

Roniak also opened up about undergoing cosmetic surgeries and aesthetic procedures in an attempt to feel better about herself before experiencing severe complications following liposuction eight years ago.

“When I hit rock bottom,” she said while reflecting on when she finally began learning self-acceptance. “My barometer for happiness used to be pretty enough, thin enough, liked enough,” she explained.

Roniak said she eventually shifted her focus to healing internally through meditation, exercise, gratitude, and self-growth rather than only on appearance.

She also encouraged greater awareness around body dysmorphic disorder and the pressures created by social media and beauty standards.

“We live in a world where we are bombarded with looking good, especially with social media and this expectation to be perfect,” she said.

During the panel discussions, speakers and attendees reflected on the importance of women expressing themselves and confidently occupying spaces.

One attendee shared how women are often silenced in professional spaces.

“Sometimes in meetings they will not allow me to talk because I talk too much,” she said.

The attendee explained that she had learned to use alternative ways to ensure her views are still heard.
Panel speaker Buhle Vuma said women should never feel discouraged from expressing themselves.

“Her voice says, express yourself. We can influence through our voices. We can influence in our families, in our communities, wherever we find ourselves,” said Vuma.

Another panel speaker, Thati Semoko, said women should recognise their worth and actively participate in spaces where they can make a difference.

“When we become active participants, we’re really giving so much more to other people to be able to speak for themselves and to see for themselves that they are worthy too,” she said.

Panellist Ntsako Write highlighted the important role women play within families and communities.

“For us, it really starts in the home. We are literally community builders,” Write said.

Madila said the event’s success showed there is still a strong need for more women’s empowerment and democracy awareness initiatives in communities.

“When women recognise their worth, they use their voice. When women use their voice, democracy grows stronger.”