Women’s Day commemorated in Eldos

My Life Matters, So I Spoke Out (MLMISO) organisation reflected on their achievements since inception a year ago.

This was during a Women’s Day celebration event at the Community Service Hub, EXT 8, Eldorado Park, on August 8.

Speakers took turns on the podium to share their testimonies and the significant role that the organisation has played in their lives.

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As part of celebrations, the organisation spoilt some of its first members with gifts before they had lunch and a slice of cake.

One of the oldest members of the organisation, Maurishca Adams said the group has changed her life and it has been a blessing to her because she prayed for it.

She said she had prayed to the Lord to send her a group of ladies that she could share her life with and have a safe space to pray and talk about her challenges without being judged.

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She further shared her personal struggles with loneliness and depression, which she claimed were addressed through prayer and support from a group of women.

When asked about the challenges women face in the community, Adams mentioned that they live in a community that is affected by a high rate of violence and shootings, making them more vulnerable to these issues.

“This has resulted in restrictions on Uber rides and other transportation options because vehicles are often stopped and attacked by criminals in Eldorado Park,” said Adams.

“The challenges faced by women in the community include lack of support and resources. We need more inclusive and supportive environments for women. There is a need for us to stand up against these issues and be counted in the community.”

In conclusion, Adams emphasised the importance of standing up against violence and crime against women in the community.

“We encourage women to take action and be counted in their communities as they face most of the challenges. I urge all women to continue with their efforts to improve the situation.”

Margaret Arnolds, co-founder of MLMISO, has been working on a campaign to raise awareness about the issues faced by women for years.

She began by speaking out about her own experiences of abuse and rape, inspired by other women who had similar experiences.

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The organisation started by inviting local women for tea and they often had to go to government departments or social workers for expert advice.

She further said the organisation has grown from 20 to over 120 ladies and it now receives sponsorships from people who believe in what they do.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the issues faced by women and promote support for those who have experienced abuse and rape by encouraging them to speak out and support each other.

It hopes to create a safer environment for women to discuss and provide a platform for them to voice their concerns and their experiences.

“Some of the women who have faced these challenges have gone for counselling and improved their lives. They now come back to the organisation to report back and address community issues,” said Arnolds.

The organisation was established during Youth Month after young girls came out and expressed security concerns and abuse, as their parents were not listening to them.

As a survivor of GBV, Arnolds believes that she has become stronger after speaking out.

She encourages women to find a place where they can talk about their experiences, and she asks the government to provide more facilities at police stations for women to talk about their experiences.

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Furthermore, she urged women to walk away from abusive relationships and refrain from withdrawing cases because after the perpetrator is released, they will return to their abusive ways.

“Walking out of a marriage is difficult and this is mainly because of their children and trauma. Women often avoid walking away due to the trauma that forces them to live under such circumstances,” she said.

Arnolds also encouraged women to get together, motivate and love each other.