Women from the area and neighbouring suburbs attended a three-hour personal protection programme at Featherbrooke Estate, hosted by INpowered in collaboration with the Queen Butterfly Foundation on October 25.

All proceeds made from the workshop went towards the support of the foundation.

Queen Butterfly is a non-profit organisation that helps children and young adults with serious mental and physical disabilities.

The foundation provides specialised programmes that are tailored to each child, such as play therapy, rehabilitation, special care, and transport, to help learners improve skills and independence. It does not get government funding and relies on donations, fees, and fundraising events.

Julie Botha, the manager of Queen Butterfly, welcomed everyone and shared her story. She said five men had broken into her home in the past and attacked her, almost killing her. She explained that even though she is well-versed in karate, she did not fight back, and the techniques she learnt through karate and INpowered helped her stay calm during the attack. Her story showed the real-life value of the workshop and prompted the participants’ excitement for the day.

Mark Grobbelaar, the founder of INpowered, did a presentation speaking about the importance of being aware, making choices, and staying confident in your own safety. He reminded everyone that self-protection begins in the mind and knowing how to spot danger, respond accurately, and stay calm.

During the first practical part of the session, participants learnt where and how to hit attackers, and in the second part, they did a symbolic exercise.

Each person wrote their name and personal fears on wooden blocks, then broke the blocks using the self-defence skills they had learnt. This activity helped women face their fears and build confidence.

Many women expressed feelings of pride and relief after facing their fears on the boards and shared that they are leaving the workshop feeling stronger, more aware, and more confident in their safety. The event showed how learning self-protection can empower women while also helping vulnerable children through the foundation’s programmes.

For more information about the workshops, foundation, and how you can support them, contact Julie via WhatsApp on 083 653 5655 or visit queenbutterfly.org.za.