Ferndale walk promotes safety, health, and unity
Ferndale’s Women’s Day Community Walk saw women reclaiming their streets, highlighting local issues, and strengthening bonds through a safe, supported 2km route.
More than 30 women took to the streets of Ferndale for the Women’s Day Community Walk, a 2km walk aimed at promoting safety, health, and community spirit.
The walk, led by Ward 104 councillor Emi Koekemoer, started at Blessings House on Cork Avenue. Koekemoer said the idea came after she moved to West Avenue in October 2024 and noticed that few people used the sidewalks, despite them being in good condition.
“I would love to get fresh air, but as a woman, I don’t want to walk alone,” she explained. “I wanted to create circumstances for other women that I would want for myself, feeling safe while making an impact by reporting community issues along the way.”
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Blessings House was chosen as the meeting point for its central location and strong support for the project. “They advocate for active citizenry as a principle of Christianity, and it’s also a safe place for women to park their cars,” said Koekemoer.
Participants were encouraged to wear pink in recognition of Women’s Month. Along the route, the group logged and reported local issues that needed attention, showing that even a short walk can bring positive change.
Koekemoer said the event ties into Women’s Month by encouraging women to reclaim their spaces and strengthen community resilience.
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While the Women’s Day walk was a one-off event, the organisers plan to meet on the first Saturday of every month. Koekemoer hopes women will start their walks in their areas, using the same model of support and safety.
The initiative has already attracted key support. Blessings House provided a safe start point, and Beagle Watch committed to ensuring participants’ safety. Koekemoer hopes more sponsors will come on board for future walks.
Her message to women is simple: “Get out, get moving, and support each other. It’s good for your physical and mental health, and it’s good for the community.”
Residents who missed the walk can still get involved by joining the WhatsApp group or following them on Instagram.
