For many young single mothers, the road to self-reliance is steep, often walked in silence and solitude. This Women's Month, the Mustadafin Foundation has announced that they will be walking alongside them.
With a belief that resilience is not something reserved for August alone, the Mustadafin Foundation is working closely with a group of 16 young single mothers, aiming to empower them to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence and them the tools to thrive, says the foundation.
"Empowerment is not a once-off intervention, it is a journey," says Ghairunisa Johnstone-Cassiem, Director of the Mustadafin Foundation. "These young women are not statistics. They are mothers, providers and role models in the making. We are simply giving them the support and space to discover their strength."
Throughout August, Mustadafin's programme will focus on supporting these women with practical guidance, emotional support and opportunities to build self-sufficiency. The highlight of the month will be a special event on Tuesday, 12 August, designed for young single mothers to connect, grow and be celebrated, says the foundation.
The work does not end there. "Our commitment to building resilience in communities happens every day, all year round," adds Johnstone-Cassiem. "This Women's Month simply gives us a moment to pause, reflect and amplify the voices of those who are often unheard."
In a world that often measures worth in terms of wealth or status, Mustadafin Foundation reminds us that true value lies in quiet courage, in the ability to rise again and in the shared strength of a community that cares, says the foundation.
This August, as the country celebrates women, Mustadafin celebrates young single mothers who are rewriting their stories, not with ease, but with purpose and power, concludes the foundation.
For more information, visit www.mustadafin.org.za. You can also follow the Mustadafin Foundation on Facebook, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor