Umqhele Wamakhosikazi recently hosted a powerful picnic themed ‘unpacking the wounds left by absent fathers’ to help women heal from the pain they experience from the male figures in their lives.

Held on February 28 at Lynnville Park, the gathering brought together women to share their struggles, support one another, and break the cycle of generational curses.

“I wanted to create a space and a community for women to come and feel safe, heard, and supported by sharing their struggles and finding ways to cut the generational curses so that it does not go to our kids,” said Thandeka Jiane, founder of the organisation.

Among the topics discussed were the issues that come with growing up without a father, struggles of being a single parent while the father is still alive, suffering from abuse, and challenges of the family from male relatives.

Through shared experiences, advice, and prayers, the women built a strong bond of sisterhood, leaving feeling heard, supported, and empowered.

“This movement is about creating a community where women can find help, healing, and belonging,” Thandeka said.

“We are fighting the belief of keeping things to yourself. The only way to heal and find peace and lead a healthy life is by talking and finding help.”

Women’s empowerment gatherings are not the only way Thandeka shows up for women and the eMalahleni community at large. She said she also does private counselling, donations of clothes, sanitary pads, and feeding schemes for those struggling with addiction.

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“Bringing change and building a safe space has always been my gift to the community,” she said.

With another big event already scheduled for April 25, the founder and organiser appreciated the ladies not only for showing up and sharing their stories, but also for the solid sisterhood that had been built.

The beautiful Lira visited eMalahleni over the weekend. This multi-platinum singer is a motivational speaker of note. WITBANK NEWS was there – check out the photos here:https://t.co/eVoVTr2EDj pic.twitter.com/3VzaE6oBEQ

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) March 11, 2026

“The day was amazing, we broke and let go of the burdens, pain, and shame we carried for so long, some of us even from birth,” Thandeka concluded.

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