Inspiring message shared at MOP women’s tea

“IF you use what is within you, what is within you will save you and others.” This was the message and inspiration behind the Women’s Month tea at Mother of Peace (MOP), Illovo on Thursday, 28 August.

The non-profit organisation whose vision is ‘building families building a nation’ strives to create a family environment for children who are vulnerable, orphaned and distressed.

“In a society where the family system needs restoration and healing, women as conduits for life are called to be the leaders in restoring the system vital for nation building. The morning tea highlighted the ways in which women can explore their full potential by unveiling the pain, taking responsibility and supporting each other,” said general manager, Iris Canham.

Guest speaker, Thobile Msomi of the organisation, Widows and Single Women Association addressed the women on having courage and becoming advocates for those who cannot use their voices or those who have been silenced.
She emphasised the importance of a change in mind-set to tackle current social issues. Teachers, Thandazou Mkwanazi and Zanele Ntuli took the group down memory lane, expressing the importance of creativity and finding the joys in life through fun and laughter. Vashti Naidoo of Durban Rotary, who sponsored snacks and prizes, encouraged bonding through fellowship and sharing.

Not forgetting the reason behind MOP, some of the children of Mother of Peace Primary entertained and led parts of the inspirational programme.

“I believe the message that we gathered here to hear is clear – that you can choose to use your experiences to intensify your pain and build a wall around yourself or you can use your experiences as a catalyst for change which would transform your life and the lives of people around you,” said Iris.