​Women came together in Eldorado Park on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, for a powerful Women's Day celebration hosted by the City of Johannesburg's Group Citizen Relationship and Urban Management Department (CRUM) Region G. Held at Don Mateman Hall, the gathering brought together about 80 women, including community leaders and representatives from NGOs, NPOs, businesses and government.

Deputy Director for CRUM Hilda Mkhwananzi spoke about the strength and resilience of mothers, while encouraging women of all ages to stand together in building a better South Africa. She said motherhood is a gift and that women demonstrate extraordinary resilience in overcoming the challenges they encounter. Mkhwananzi also encouraged women to draw strength from each other and work collectively towards stronger communities and a better country.

The gathering also placed a strong emphasis on intergenerational learning, with women of different ages given an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences.

​One of the most emotional moments of the programme came when Audrey Caster from Women in NPO and NGO courageously shared her personal story of surviving abuse. She spoke openly about experiencing physical abuse during her first marriage and verbal abuse during her second. She also disclosed that she had been sexually abused by her stepfather between the ages of six and 12.

Despite the trauma she experienced, Caster spoke about finding strength through her faith and ultimately finding the courage to leave her second marriage. Her story resonated as a powerful reminder of the importance of creating spaces where women can speak about their experiences without shame or judgement.

The event also ensured that women were made aware of avenues for assistance should they find themselves in danger or experiencing abuse. Attendees were provided with the crisis line number 0800 223 217 for women requiring assistance.

The celebration ended with speakers and women who attended receiving gifts for their participation and for the contribution women continue to make within their communities.

Written by Dr Farhin Delawala
19/08/2026

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