The Johannesburg Junior Council (JJC) hosted a Women’s Day empowerment conference at Holy Family College in Parktown on August 2. JJC members and members of the community gathered to honour the strength and stories of women at the event titled: The Power of Her Voice.

Entry was R20, with all proceeds donated to the Chayil Foundation, an organisation that supports survivors of gender-based violence through safe housing, mentorship, and skills development. JJC member Lesedi Moletsane, from Roedean School, said the foundation was chosen for its work with women and girls affected by trauma. Its mission, she added, aligns with the JJC’s goals for Women’s month.

Read more: Why did 9 August become #WomensDay?

Oliver Bouilliart, co-mayor of the JJC and a learner at St John’s College, said the council wanted to create a platform that acknowledged and amplified women’s voices. “Too often, women’s voices are overlooked in society. In our council, we see their strength and leadership every day. This conference was a chance to celebrate that, and call for greater recognition.”

The programme featured three guest speakers who shared their personal and professional journeys: Tebogo Magato, co-founder of a training organisation, spoke about digital inclusion, leadership, and youth empowerment across business, government, and academia, Karen Landi, co-founder of Community Hours, highlighted how her platform has grown from 750 volunteers to more than 10 000 young people contributing to community service. Her work in child advocacy and leadership was also shared, and Robin Le Roux, founder of the Trial Foundation, discussed the importance of resilience and healing. Her organisation has supported vulnerable communities since 2014 with food, clothing, mentorship, and rehabilitation programmes.

After the presentations, a panel discussion was held, moderated by outreach committee members Kaley Govindasamy and Tagara Mwewa. The floor was opened for audience questions and engagement.

Tagara, a learner at St Andrew’s School for Girls, said the event reflected the heart of the JJC’s outreach work. “The speakers shared powerful stories of perseverance. They reminded us that it’s possible to make an impact despite hardship.”

Kaley added that the discussion aimed to spark connection and action. “We wanted this to go beyond just listening. It was about igniting change.”

Lesedi noted the event was inclusive. “Both men and women must be part of the conversation. Equality requires shared responsibility.”

The event, organised by JJC members through school networks, created a space where women’s voices were heard and celebrated.

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