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Women in need empowered

This market day was initiated by DIA.ORG – a non-profit and public benefit organisation that oversees several community and humanitarian programmes. The abbreviation 'DIA' stands for Disciples in Action.

A market day was initiated by DIA.ORG – a non-profit and public benefit organisation that oversees several community and humanitarian programmes recently. The abbreviation ‘DIA’ stands for Disciples in Action.

On Saturday, 28 October, community members had the opportunity to support local growth and empowerment by visiting the market hosted by a local public benefit organisation.

Miané van der Westuizen with her brother, Uian and mother Michelle. Photo: Alanicka Lotriet.

DIA.ORG has an objective to uplift and empower disadvantaged communities through developing employment opportunities and helping alleviate poverty. It believes in helping people reach their full potential by helping them discover their gifting, which enables them to serve their communities.

Their Philadelphia project, among other, was initiated at the beginning of last year. Debbie Yeates, co-founder of DIA.ORG started this project after identifying the urgent need of empowering women in Krugersdorp West and surroundings.

Angeli Scheepers and her mother, Theresa supporting the cause. Photo: Alanicka Lotriet.

“We started a journey with five women who wanted to better themselves and secure a brighter future by working hard. We subsequently took hands with this small group in hopes of walking a healing path with them,” Debbie said.

Shortly after, Gift Cards – cards with a difference – was birthed out of DIA.ORG. The women make these gift cards along with other gifts and sell them for an income. The gifts include jam, jewellery, gift bags, table-cloth weights, scarves, blankets, table cloths, bath salts, face cloths, fridge magnets and soap.

The group that forms part of the Philadelphia project. Photo: Alanicka Lotriet.

Shortly after, Gift Cards – cards with a difference – was birthed out of DIA.ORG. The women make these gift cards along with other gifts and sell them for an income. The gifts include jam, jewellery, gift bags, table-cloth weights, scarves, blankets, table cloths, bath salts, face cloths, fridge magnets and soap.

“We walk the full circle with them. We look at their emotional and spiritual aspects and we help them grow. We develop their talents,” she said.

Petro Erasmus showcasing some of their handmade products. Photo: Alanicka Lotriet.

During the market day the public was invited to enjoy some cake and take a walk through their gift shop. Even though the cake was sponsored, the women had the opportunity to get an income through waitressing tips.

“The day served to create awareness about the cause and products. I believe in these women, and I know that each and every one of them can be extremely proud of themselves,” she said.

She added that she is grateful for the community’s support and trust that the women have learnt a lot. However, she would like to involve more women in future with the help of sponsorships.For more information, feel free to send an email to dia.org@mweb.co.za or visit www.diaorg.com. You can also contact Wayne on 082 775 3472.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at krugersdorpnews@caxton.co.za or phone us on 011 955 1130.

For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister websites: 

Randfontein Herald

Roodepoort Record

Get It Joburg West Magazine

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