AUSTERVILLE Community Hall hosted the eThekwini South Youth in Business’s young women’s talk on August 15, where various important discussions surrounding mental health were held.

Also read: Women’s breakfast for Bluff animal rehoming businesses a resounding success [Pictures]

At the event, 40 young women came together in a safe space and were given a platform to voice the challenges they faced and were encouraged to harness the power of togetherness.

Celeste King, founder of the eThekwini South Youth in Business, said the initiative was conceived from an extremely personal experience.

“When a friend of mine passed away by ending her own life, I was truly affected. I was so saddened and wished I understood what she was going through. I was motivated by the sorrow to create this platform where young women can just talk openly, uplift one another and learn how to navigate through the challenges in life,” she said.

The programme consisted of a “Find a buddy to care” system, where the members are matched with a buddy who they have to stay in touch with on a day-to-day basis. King said in order for the members to build resilience and attempt to problem-solve together they will look into hosting monthly meetings.

 She added that her dream for the project is to grow and engage more women in the community.

“To every young woman, remember that as long as you are still breathing, God still has a purpose for you. Always look to him, for he will never fail you,” said King.

Overall, the talk brought attention to the importance of speaking out on mental illness and also started providing an ongoing support system for young women in the Wentworth community.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.