Young women empowered to break cycle of abuse
Young women who are part of the Girl Build Your Future non-profit organisation were recently recognised for their strength and resilience with awards. The Musgrave-based organisation runs an empowerment and leadership programme that offers a safe haven for young women who may be in need of shelter and guidance.
WOMEN empowerment was heralded by the Musgrave-based non-profit organisation, Girl Build Your Future (GBYF), which held its awards ceremony at Church House in the Durban CBD on Saturday, February 15.
Young women from all walks of life were honoured by the three-year-old organisation for their perseverance and resilience, having come out the other side of their struggles. Virginia Kalonji, founder of GBYF, said the organisation was created with the intention of helping young women who are living in abusive conditions and coming from neglectful backgrounds, and who need support and a safe space.
She said, “Girls out there are suffering, they are in need of guidance which is what we offer them at GBYF, so that nobody takes advantage of them. We help build their confidence, to break the cycle of abuse that they might be under, whether it be family or men taking advantage of their need for money.”
Over their three years of existence, the organisation has been a shelter and refuge for over 50 girls and young women whom they mentored through the GBYF leadership programme. “We are building future leaders who can change the world,” said Kalonji.
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Among those who benefitted from the organisation’s programmes was a young woman who told of a harrowing tale of alleged abuse at the hands of her stepmother. She survived and now dreams of being a super model. Together with others in attendance they were motivated to break the barriers and the toxic foundations that hold them back from reaching for their futures.
Dr Nadia Bernon, founder and director of the Newlands East Humane Society NPO, urged women to break the cycle. She said, “As women we need to show kindness, it does not cost anything. End the cycle of abuse, know that you are worth it. Tomorrow is going to be better than today; be the leader that you seek and value yourself. Do not be limited by your circumstances and stand for those who are unable to.”
For more information about the organisation or to be part of their leadership programme, contact Virginia Kalonji on 062 668 6642.
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