Local gym owner to empower women and troubled school learners

FOR WOMEN’S MONTH

BA & BT

Lebohang Pita

As South Africa grapples with the increasing epidemic of gender-based violence (GBV) and school violence, one Benonian is opening her facility to help the women and local schools dealing with delinquent learners.
This Women’s Month, Chantal Brown, owner of Rocksolid Boxing and Fitness Gym in Western Extension and one of a few women boxing managers in the country, will open her gym to victims of abuse, fitness enthusiasts and those seeking self-defence classes.
Brown said she is saddened that abuse against women is a widespread and a common occurrence.
She said as a woman in the boxing industry, she had a platform to empower women and equip them with the skills to stand up for themselves.
“Women are abused every day,” she said. “I don’t want women to feel defenceless and helpless. I want women to walk the streets without fear and I want them to take back their power.
“I will teach them self-defence techniques and how to stand up for themselves. I want them to take the knowledge and share it with other women in abusive relationships or with their daughters to use when they grow up,” said Brown.
According to the 43-year old, she wants this to grow beyond August because the future of this country depends on strong and healthy women.
Brown emphasised that although women want to be independent, they are still vulnerable and need to be empowered.
“It’s not only a Women’s Month initiative. I’m starting it this month but I will push it beyond August and I want the entire Benoni to get involved.”
Troubled school learners
Brown said she was concerned by the increase in violence in local schools. She would like to partner with schools in the area to help troubled learners.
“I will put them on a six to eight week training programme, which will help them with discipline and give them meaning in their lives,” she said.
“There are lots of children who come from broken homes and are struggling with discipline. Schools aren’t usually equipped to deal with this. My idea is to help them and involve them in community activities that will boost their confidence.”
Brown’s gym is open every day from 07:00 to 20:00. For more info, contact her on 076 184 2193.