Bomme fela

Beautiful in every single way!

2012-01-26T23:18:00.000-08:00

Glamorous women - Soweto

As you know, they are pastors’ wives justtrying to give a little bit of themselves to make a contribution to thecommunities where their husbands are working.

They are called upon for many tasks and more often than not theirhands are busily at work showing their talents. You might see them on Sundaysas a reflection of the beauty of the women of God.

These same glamorous women are willing to make a difference inthe Church.

They are hard workers ensuring their household and church arebeing provided for.

And they go beyond this to serve the needy with a smile, a wordof encouragement, a hug and sometimessimply by holding the hands of cancer patients in distress.

In December after finishing their hospital visits for the year,they still did not rest.

Find out more about our WiA members: What isfamily?

When one comes to know God and has accepted Him as Lord andSaviour, one immediately becomes part of His family.

Even when trials and difficulties come, there is no need forworry or fear because the One in whom one believes is much greater than theproblem.

Women in Action (WiA) have become like family to those in thecommunity, not only taking the time to empower or bring awareness toindividuals but also by listening to what’s on their minds and offeringcounsel.

We all know what being alone during the holidays can do to aperson, and it’s even worse when that person is sick.

WiA decided to do something special and extraordinary for thecancer patients they had visited during the year.

In the last two weeks of December 2011, somecancer volunteers took time from their personal duties to telephone all thepatients they had visited during the year. What a priceless time it was!

This is what the volunteers had to say aftermaking the calls:

Taking part in the callbacks to the cancer patients was a goodthing to do. It showed we remembered them, especially at this time of the year.

Even though some of them were not feeling ok, but deep down intheir hearts they felt special because we called them.

Some of them are positive that they will be fine. I reallyenjoyed myself. It was such a blessingto the people even I felt revived.

Hearing them say how much they appreciate these calls and howstrong they felt after the call was good. One even said that by calling them,we are giving them hope again.

He even mentioned that sometimes they don’t need many words, justknowing that someone cares is enough to keep them going.

With staff members Oncology Ward

It was heartbreaking hearing of how some are discriminatedagainst at their work place, being called names or ill treated by the healthprofessionals. Some were too weak to speak, making it hard to hear what theywere saying, but they kept on the line nevertheless.

I was reminded about the suffering our people experience daily.The joy those calls gave to them was priceless! They were truly grateful eventhose who had lost a family member.

We always aim to make a difference, that’s why we are called –Women in Action.

Mission Accomplished in Western Province

2012-01-14T22:40:00.000-08:00

On the 26^th November, 2011, WiAhas travelled all the way to Cape Town to host our Human Trafficking AwarenessEvent as part of the 16 Days of Activism Agaisnt Abuse to Women and Children.

We have invited for the occasion the groupThe Justice Acts, one of the organisations in South Africa that most work onawareness against Human Trafficking.

And again, we have spread the Fragrance ofFreedom by counting on the support of our WP members who attended to the eventand who have contributed by exchange their donation by one of the braceletshand made by our pastors’ wives.

We have proudly handed in our donation tothe team of The Justice Acts last 15^thDecember and we were honored to know that the funds raised will be reverted to theHouse of Safe they hold in Cape Town where they offer dwelling, protection andrehabilitation to victims from Human Trafficking.

Our gratitude to our supporters from theWestern Province – as a result of your donation we were able to benefit onemore organisation

Endorsement to our meeting in Cape Town

What I walked away with from the meeting on the 26this that I need to be more vigilant as not everything is what it seems. Also Ilearnt about the different forms of human trafficking which I had not beenaware of.

Ever since we have been having talks on human trafficking I met a girl in thechurch who is from Lesotho, I met her through my younger sister and she toldher that she had been taken from Lesotho by a man who claimed that she wasgoing to give her employment and when they arrived here in Cape Town he changedhis mind and decided that he wanted to marry her. Luckily there were members ofthe church who lived near by and took her in and also we have been talking toher in the church but now through the members in the church she was able to goback home as she went back to Lesotho 3 weeks back. I had known about her for awhile but it never clicked in my mind that this was a case of human traffickinguntil we started talking about in the meetings.

(Member from Cape Town)

Sentimental Life

2012-01-07T23:32:00.000-08:00

It is meant to be the most joyous field ofone’s life because it inspires completion, happiness, fulfilment, friendship,commitment, alliance among many other characteristics that human beings cravefor .

However, it has been the very same reasonof sadness and pain to many. Why that? Though love life in principle isnurtured by our soul, feelings and heart, if not guided by wisdom, reasoningand spirit, it ends up causing more harm than good.

Whenever there is too much of emotion andfeelings, we obscure our thoughts and end up making the wrong choices.

I invite you to read this testimony and youwill understand through a practical example the fine line that defines asuccessful relationship.

I've always heard stories of how thedevil worked and destroyed the lives of many people through their sentimentallives. I never thought for a second it could happen to me. After all I thoughtthat those stories only happened to bad people who were just unfortunate enoughto be the victims of the devil.

I totally became oblivious to hisschemes. I never paid enough attention to learn from the mistakes made throughthose stories. After all I was this innocent good girl who didn't deserveanything bad happening to her.

I fell into the same trap of emotions. Iconfused lust with love. Those warm and fuzzy feelings were so good that Ididn't even know what the real deal was. My boyfriend became a priority and Iforgot all about God being the first priority in a way. As God wasn't all thatimportant to me anymore, but my boyfriend was. Like a child that forgets allabout her old toys and draws all of her attention on the new one. I prayedless, read the bible less and focused on my boyfriend more.

It wasn't long until reality started toset in. Problems such as insecurities, jealousy, lack of trust,misunderstandings started surfacing. My new toy wasn't all so cool and excitinganymore. All those temporal feelings started disappearing as more problems startedoccurring.

I started feeling more empty and vacantinside; I no longer had the fulfillment as I was haunted by a guiltyconscience. My life just changed,I was too spiritually blind that I was on a road to hell.

I tried solving the many problems I hadall by my self and I failed. It just was no longer nice to have my toy anymore.I ended up loosing it by throwing it away. I just couldn't take it anymore, thepain became all so unbearable. After all its wasn't what I had signed up for.

I realized how much I had lost. I missedthe relationship I had with God and who I am in God. I started missing the oldthings that gave me joy and happiness. I knew I was wrong and I wanted to getback to the height I'd fallen from. I knew that I had to start afresh and thatit wouldn't be easy

I went back to my first love, JesusChrist who loved me first. He love is genuine, unconditional and true. He lovedme for me and knows me better that I know myself. I recuperated and now I knowthat His value is more important above anything or anyone else. He is the loverof my soul and my true love. I need not to look elsewhere for my true love.He's nearer to me than I know, and He's with me all the time.

Its amazing how quick people canidentify fake money easily, but they fail to identify the fake counterfeitsfrom the devil. I've learned this lesson the hard way. Keep watch all the timeand pay attention to the devils schemes. Don't be ignorant, wise people learnfrom the mistakes of others to avoid committing the same.

Member of UCKG Gauteng

If you do not fall in love with Jesusfirst, you will not be able to nurture a health relationship. Think about that!

GROUP LAUNCHING: SAVE A TAMAR

2012-01-03T03:56:00.000-08:00

As Wia we havebeen

· .comforting those undergoingchemo treatments at JHB Gen Oncology Department with our Cancer Support Team,

· .we have also embarked in thecounselling of HIV/Aids affected and infected patients through our HIV PeerEducators,

· .we have held awareness campaigns on abuseagainst women and children extended to human trafficking awareness

And we felt a great empathy to the manywomen and children who are still grieving from traumatic situations of abuse.We needed to do something; we need to sharpen our skills to help them better.

This is what our members from JHB and CapeTown did by enrolling to a workshop for trauma counselling with the Rape Crisis Unit and as aresult of this knowledge and techniques we will be officially launching ourSave a Tamar Group in January 2012.

This group is meant to those who needsupport, comfort and tools to overcome traumatic experiences and maybe do nothave the courage to look for advice with other organisations outside the churchboundaries.

Be known that this group is open tonon-members of the UCKG and we will handle private counselling and groupsections.

For now, we will be hosting this beautifulwork in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban but it will soon expand to the restof the country.

You can send an email to woman2woman@uckg.org.za for personalcounselling.

Watch this space for more information.

Marcia Pires

WIA Durban - Halala Abafazi, halala!

2011-12-30T09:51:00.001-08:00

Top New Year's Resolution!

2011-12-26T00:20:00.000-08:00

1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends

Recent polls conducted by General Nutrition Centers, vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year.

2. Learn Something New

Have you vowed to make this year the year to learn something new? Perhaps you are considering a career change; want to learn a new language, or just how to fix your computer? Whether you take a course or read a book, you'll find education to be one of the easiest, most motivating New Year's resolutions to keep.

3. Help Others

A popular, non-selfish New Year's resolution, volunteerism can take many forms. Whether you choose to spend time helping out at your community mentoring a child, or building a house, there are many nonprofit volunteer organizations that could really use your help.

4. Get Organized

On just about every New Year resolution top ten list, organization can be a very reasonable goal. Whether you want your home organized or your office organized, tips and resources should get you started on the way to a more organized life. By the way, from 1st Jan 2012 we will publish one tip for organisation daily. Watch this space!

5. The ultimate New Year’s Resolution

Fall in Love with Jesus – pursue to have your encounter with Him.

If you do, I can safely wish you Happy 2012!

Be my Witness

2011-12-19T02:16:00.000-08:00

One of the most difficult things in our churches today is to see people willing to share God’s blessings upon their life.

The common is just the opposite, one telling A and B about his problems, his failures, his worries without noticing that every person he confides with, about his troubled life, he is “pleasing” the devil’s work by confessing his doubts, weaknesses, despair, confusion before his problems.

Dear reader, your word has power either to bless and change your life or to bring more defeat upon yourself.

Today, I want to focus on the benefits of counting your blessings.

Every time you have good news to share with friends and family members, you are no less than glorifying God and showing that no matter what situation your listener may be going through, there is hope.

Some say that “marketing is the soul for success in business” and this is really true in all areas of life. When you are sharing your happiness, your well-being, your achievement, you are “promoting” the One who has blessed you with that.

If you invite someone to come to church, you can assuredly share of the miracles of the Bible but how much stronger it is when you can share about the miracles God has been doing in your life?

Unfortunately many do not think this way and when blessed they hide afraid of jealous, envy and so many other negative thoughts that do not match with the great power of the One who has blessed them.

And they are loosing the opportunity of being part of God’s plan to advance His kingdom today. The Book of Acts, in the Bible, contains 28 chapters, but have you wondered that you can add one more chapter to this treasure that is reporting the acts of your life and being a disciple for Jesus Christ?

“And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere–in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

Now, my question to your dear reader, have you been Jesus’ witnesses lately in South Africa?

16 Days comes to an End

2011-12-11T03:54:00.000-08:00

We have proudly concluded our activities for 2011 with our last Fragrance of Freedom Event in Cape Town on the 26 November whereby we counted with the support of 2000 people.

This event aimed once again to bring awareness to one of the hardest social injustices of all times: Human Trafficking.

And believe me, it is so real and so growing in our South Africa. We have raised donations to benefit Justice Acts, another organisation militating against human traffic in the mother city where sex tourism reaches unbelievable rates.

As for WiA, there is never a limit or a common sense in the back of our minds that we have done enough.

All efforts, all commitment, all work put together is just not enough to decrease the suffering in people’s life.

Hence, we are fully aware that by crossing our arms and doing nothing we are actually just contributing to increase the problem.

So we do our part by bringing awareness, raising funds, donating to honourable organisations, offering counselling and support to victims of abuse, ministering comfort to Cancer patients and being present in the life of many women who invites us in.

It has been so great to be part of WiA but above all to count on the support of all women inside and outside our church, who come along in the same spirit, and participate, and get involved with our cause, and donate, and pass on the message of awareness to their family and community members.It has been far great honour to serve side by side with my colleagues, pastors’ wives, who set aside their own challenges and commitment just to help this work grow.

As much as I believe that knowledge is power and as much as I strive to share this knowledge with those around us, I also believe in the power of two simple words that enhance a great meaning:

THANK YOU!

For your support, for your prayers, for your sponsorship, for taking a stand against social injustices therefore showing you are a woman of value, you are virtuous.

Marcia Pires

Break the Silence – Stop the violence

2011-12-05T01:31:00.000-08:00

Imagine if, for 16 days, there was no rape, no child abuse. The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign challenges South Africans to declare a truce on violence against women and children - and, ultimately, to make it a permanent one. As we all know that women are taught from an early age that what happens inside the home should stay inside the home, and that the relationship between husband and wife is no one’s business other than their own. Speaking about their relationship to others can be used as justification for divorce.

On the 26th November members of the Sisterhood and V-Woman stood up in this campaign and took off to the streets of Johannesburg CBD with the aim of breaking the silence, holding posters they marched through the streets

The campaign also aimed to:

Challenge the perpetrators of violence to change their behaviour. Involve men in helping to eradicate violence. Provide survivors with information on services and organisations that can help lessen the impact of violence on their livesAfter the march these determined women stood by the corners of the streets handing out pamphlets inviting both young and old women to come listen ad get information on how they can also break this silence. At about 12 noon the presentation began with Bp Gerald marshaling in prayer then, Mrs.n Pinkie took over by giving an example of how one carries a burden of abuse silence and introduced Ms. Grace and Mrs. Bongi who came in front to tell us about there own brush and experiences in abuse, a clip was then shown which was a great eye opener.As much as I have been blessed by this event I know many others were also, for the simple fact that a window to their minds were open letting light in to shine upon that which they have kept in silence for so long, thinking that no one understood, no one cared, if they were to speak they’ll only be re-abused, so their only conclusion was to keep quiet and suffer in silence. We had about 200+ ladies and more trooping in as the event went on.Abuse – no matter what form it takes, verbal, emotional, and physical – it’s still abuse, and no one should be subjected to such. While observing the people during the time of the testimonies I could see hope on their faces, because finally what they’ve been through or going through there’s someone who understood, there’s someone who was ready to listen to their pain and help them out. Two people caught my attention during the moment, a Mama who was crying silently and a young girl who got up and walk out, but was happy to see one of the wives followed her – they took a long time out there, I later learned that the girl, only 16, was raped by her step-father friend and is now HIV+. The wall that separated the victims from healing was brought down that day, as Grace who was giving her testimony said “I took back the power the devil had stolen from me and began to fight”, it’s the same that happened that day, those ladies gained back their power to stand up and fight, for some who couldn’t talk at that very moment, they made appointments with wives to come and speak to them.

Mrs. Donna Owumbiko

World Aids Day - 1 Dec

2011-11-27T03:45:00.000-08:00

Within the 16 Days of Activism, we honor the awareness brought worldwide on HIV/Aids matter.

The many who are struggling with the virus and the disease itself, the many who are orphans as a result of the pandemic, the many who are proving that HIV is not a death sentence, the many who work constantly to bring improvement to laws and conditions, the many who serve in social programs caring and bringing awareness

We pay tribute to you today!

Hence, there is one aspect of the subject that we cannot overlook at this moment – those who intently contaminate others.

To those we cannot pay tribute; rather we need to cry out for justice.

As part of our 16 Days of Activism, one of most severe forms of abuse to women (and why not mention men in this case) has been the imposed contamination of HIV by not practicing safe sex.

This comes in so many imposing ways deepening abuse:

. Unfaithful partners who do not want to test and impose unprotected sex to their partners;

. Husbands, for the merit of tradition or manhood, not accepting to protect the health of their wives and forcing them to unprotected sex;

. Sex partners who willingly transmit the virus as means of revenge to their own health condition;

. Those who have either the virus or the disease but do not want to disclose their status with family putting into risk other members;

. Sex workers being forced to practice unprotected sex for the sake of clientele appreciation.

. Pedophilia and raping abusers

It is our obligation to take a stand against such cases and make sure we offer to the victims all support needed to overcome the trauma.

This is one of the reasons why WiA members, who were properly trained as HIV Peer Educators, will be offering counseling to HIV patients and family members this coming 1^st of December, from 4pm onwards.

Let us take a stand by bringing awareness, encouraging women not to subject themselves to such abuse and comforting those who are dealing with the virus.

Take a stand against abuse

2011-11-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am sharing one more testimony with you and I honour all those who are using of their traumatic experience as encouragement to others who have not been able to deal with abuse.

My name is Hope and I’m a 24-year-old HIV positive single mum. This is my story.

My friends and I were coming back from a night vigil of the youth at Wembley Stadium in November 2005. My friend had invited me to church and I have been going there for a few weeks before the night vigil. Coming back from the vigil everybody went to their various homes, on my way home I met a guy we used to party with, and sniff coke…he offered me ecstasy and I refused all I wanted to do was to go home and sleep, I have your jacket he said, “when can you come and get it”? Around ten I said and went home to get some sleep, at eleven I went to his place to get my jacket.

When I got there, he was high and drunk, he pushed the door closed behind me, I asked him “what’s’ up”, he pushed and slapped me, I ran to the door but he got there before I could, locked the door and threw the key out the window and put on very loud music, he laughed and said, “now because of that stupid church you think you better than me”? He continued slapping and pushing me I screamed but no one heard me, I tried to fight back but no matter how much I tried, I felt more and more powerless, he grabbed me, tore my t-shirt and pushed me to the bed he took a rope and tied me up.

With both my hands tied he went down and pushed open my legs and he entered me, I couldn’t stand his breath of alcohol, the look on his face, when I looked away he would slap me and want me to look at him, when he finished, he said get dressed and I will walk you home, he then said, “don’t you get it, what I just did is because I love you!” I went home bruised and no one asked who did this to you? I poured water to wash the dirt, I felt dirty and disgusted, three months later I found out I was pregnant, once again, no one asked who is the father of the baby?

This is one more testimony that I want to share with you and I honour all those who are using of their traumatic experience as encouragement to those who have been holding it and grieving over what happened.

Here I was, nineteen and HIV positive with a kid. I despised God, I hated God, but not as much as I hated the child I had. At times all I wanted was to kill the child and move on with my life, but then an evangelism group used to come at my place every day and I went back to church. I learned to love my son, and to forgive all that happened, I always asked myself, “God, why me?” But I learned that if not me why somebody else. God has revealed Himself to me many times, like when I’d booked for an abortion, the Sunday I went to church I saw on the Universal News front page was on abortion – either you say yes or either you say no. I thank God my child is negative and I wouldn’t leave him, I have accepted.

Even though my status is HIV, I love my son. I learned a lot in church and my health is better, my CD4 is normal and I’m not taking ARV, I am blessed. The anger I had is gone, I met my child father the other day and he begged me to forgive him and this year on the Sunday of forgiveness I wrote down his name. I’m living life and I am bigger than the virus in my blood. I know God will never forsaken me, though I’m not working at the moment, but I’m being taken care of, I’ve never had to borrow or go without food. Thank you God.

Take a stand, join us this coming 26 November.

16 Days f Activism

2011-11-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Some people ask us what is the motivation behind the work of WiA. I will tell you honestly that the only reason is to be able to see life coming back to someone who has been lost and desolate.

You will understand our motivation after reading this testimony from a member of our church:

Every morning I would wake up to find him on top of me ...

My name is Grace and I’m 21 years old.

When I was about seven or eight, my mother got so sick that she could not take care of me. I had to go and live with my aunt and grandmother. Life there was so horrible. I was treated like a dog by my aunt. Then one of my dad's uncles came to live with us. We were at my granny's house. Every morning I would wake up to find him on top of me, raping me. It happened every morning. I was so scared because I thought that I was going to get into trouble for it. I told my aunt and she laughed at me and said: "What are you expecting? Look at you. You’re useless. You’re nothing. That’s why your parents dumped you here. Nobody loves you. You’re only a burden, so it’s your fault. Don’t try to look innocent. You deserve it.”

With that I was silenced forever.

A year later I came back home, very quiet. Then my cousin (my dad's late brother's son) started to molest me as well. Also EVERY DAY!

From before I started school until I was in grade 5, he was so obsessed with me that whenever I would fight and refuse, he would want to do it to my little sister. I was so afraid of him. He was also a gangster.

He told me he didn’t care. If I spoke about it, he would kill my parents and my little sister and then sell me off to his gangster friends. Anyway, even if I spoke,

nobody would believe me. In 2004, I was sexually harrassed by another relative whom I loved so much.

This whole thing made me create my own little dark world where only I could live. I was wounded and shattered. I lived with so much fear because every man was rapist, a molester to me.

I hated men with all my heart. I didn’t even trust my own father. I was always afraid to be left alone with him thinking that he might do the same to me,since I believed that he didn’t love me. I hated my parents. I blamed them so much, but I forgot that they didnt know. For many years I tried to commit suicide. If I count now, it’s more than 100 times.

I was empty, lost, depressed and SO, SO ANGRY!! I was so desperate to end my life. I would cut myself, overdose, drink car chemicals, eat rat and cockroach poisons. I did it all....

My anger was mostly directed at God. I hated Him. I blamed Him. I even wrote Him a letter telling Him how much I hated Him.

Happiness -- I hated that too. Mine was a momentary thing. In a day I would be happy for two hours and spend the rest of the week down and crying, every day. The pain could not be described. I didn’t like people because they seemed too happy while I was dying. If my parents shouted about a mistake that I

made, I would spend a week without speaking to them. I was too angry to see reason.

2009 was my matric year. I had two major heart- attacks, which gave me a 20% chance of living. That was when God held my hand and said “I’m here. It’s time to accept. Stop being in denial about it all and be reborn.” It took time and it was so hard, painful and difficult.

I clung to God's hand. He told me how much he loved me in Romans char:5, (check this ref) and he proved it because I gave Him a chance.

About four months ago I had the courage to sit down with my mother. I told her everything. So much had been lies. She showed me so much love!

Today I’m a living testimony. My life is so blessed. I’m the HAPPIEST person alive. I’m serving God. I love people so much. I’m free and cured and no longer angry. I no longer fear. I learned to forgive myself, others and then to conquer all! I overcame.

Even though those memories do visit sometimes, I no longer cry or feel pain. I laugh at it and say ‘thank you’ for happening because if you didn’t, I would not be here today. I am who I am because of my past --- which is a woman of God. I am God's chosen.

Thank you!

This can be your motivation. Join us at one of these event

16 Days of Activism

2011-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children is an international campaign.

It takes place every year from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).

The period includes Universal Children’s Day and World AIDS Day.

During this time, the South African Government runs a 16 Days of Activism Campaign to make people aware of the negative impact of violence on women and children and to act against abuse.

We are firmly committed to leading a coordinated effort to sustain the campaign into the next decade.

Every year, government, civil-society organisations and the business sector work together to broaden the impact of the campaign.

By supporting this campaign, thousands of South Africans have also helped to increase awareness of abuse and strengthen support for victims and survivors of abuse.

What can you do?

Together let us take action to support the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign. Invite someone to join you at one of the meetings listed below and learn more about the subject.

• WiA in Cape Town – 26/11/2011 – The Fragrance of Freedom Campaign against Human Trafficking – 12noon with guests from Justice Acts SA.

Venue: 9 Buitenkant Street - CBC - Cape Town

Supported by: Sisterhood and V-Women, Cape Town

By supporting this campaign, thousands of South Africans have also helped to increase awareness of abuse and strengthen support for victims and survivors of abuse

• Sisterhood and V-Women in JHB – 26/11/2011 – 25 Plein Street – (Portuguese Church) – 12 noon

• Sisterhood and V-Women in DBN – 26/11/2011 – 467 Smith Street – 12 noon

Words only will not bring much change, but deter

mination and action will make a great difference. Be part of the difference. Join us.

Marcia Pires

WiA warns youth about Human Trafficking

2011-11-02T05:29:00.000-07:00

Young people from Gauteng Region gathered at the Cenacle of the Holy Spirit in Johannesburg to attend a special meeting organised in partnership with Women in Action on Saturday 29th October.

The meeting aimed to create awareness of Human Trafficking among youth who, in many instances, are the most viable targets for traffickers. Boogie Dlamini, from the Women and Men Against Child Abuse and Kidz Clinic, addressed the youth on the dangers of social media, the pitfalls of not being self-aware and watchful, as well as ways in which young people can avoid becoming another human trafficking statistic.

She explained that Human Trafficking is organised crime and modern day slavery which involves friends, colleagues, government officials and even family members.

Stay alert • No matter who offers you a job – friend, family member, or employment agency – make sure the offer is real by contacting the employer.
• Make sure you sign a legal contract with terms that you agreed to and if possible seek legal advice by going to the Department of Labour.
• It is illegal for anyone to take your passport from you.
• If you travel, make sure to call your family regularly.
• When arriving in a country, go to the embassy where they can give you emergency numbers for assistance.

Work of our hands

2011-10-28T06:16:00.001-07:00

There is beauty in the work of our hands

The virtuous woman, described in Proverbs 31:19, clearly had the talent of working with her hands to benefit her household.

As women of God, we all have talents of our own and WiA members have again proved this to be true. Because of their dedication and work, we have been able to raise funds, campaign after campaign, to help numerous associations:

• Ikhaya Lezingelosi Day Care Centre, Johannesburg

• Good Samaritan Childrens Home, Limpopo

• CANSA, Johannesburg

• Teddy Bear Clinic, Johannesburg

• Rape Crisis Unit, Cape Town

• WAMACA, Durban • WAMACA, Pretoria

• Let’s talk about Cancer, Johannesburg

• Hillbrow/Berea Home of Hope, Johannesburg

• WAMACA, Johannesburg From time to time, various WiA members have been inspired to craft a pin, bijoux (jewellery), key holders and most recently the “Fragrance of Freedom” bracelet.

Only through the vital assistance of a team has it been possible to produce these trinkets in sufficient quantities to raise funds for charity. We exchange the work of our hands, our offering, for contributions that will generate income for these well-known organisations.

WiA members feel honoured to be able to contribute in such manner. Much effort over many weeks, including working throughout night vigils, simply add value to the causes we support. As WiA founder, I wish to convey my sincere thanks to each and every one of our members who has worked so diligently to assist the needy, proving once again they are truly virtuous women.

Marcia Pires

Talking to the Youth

2011-10-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

We are preparing a very important meeting for the Youth that will take place on the 29th of October, at 10am, at 25 Plein Street - Johannesburg.

Why is it so important?

Because one of the most affected by human trafficking are the youngsters. And what is the common tool? Social media.

WiA, in partnership with the Youth Group, has invited representatives of WMACA who will address the group in a very direct way.

Friends, we will not select words, we will not hide the truth - rather, we will show you how in danger you are.

If you are from 13 to 25 years, this meeting is for you; if you are simply passionate for social media, this meeting is for you.

Do not disregard this message, tomorrow may be too late. It is better to act than to react!

Fragrance of Freedom Campaign donates to WMACA

2011-10-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

The WiA campaign, Fragrance of Freedom, was launched in Soweto on Women’s Day, with the aim of spreading awareness of human trafficking.

Since its launch WiA members have worked tirelessly making hand crafted bracelets which are sold at R20.00 each to raise funds for this cause. All proceeds will be donated to organisations combating trafficking and offering assistance to those who have fallen prey to traffickers.

The first donation was made to the Berea-Hillbrow Home of Hope, an organisation which has helped to rescue and rehabilitate young girls who have been victims of abuse and sex slavery for the past 11 years. Now WiA is pleased to announce the second donation in this campaign. A further R20,000.00 was raised and donated to Women and Men Against Child Abuse (WMACA ).

This organisation, which was formed in 1997, is extremely outspoken in its fight against child abuse. They provide specialised child-abuse facilities as well as support programmes aimed at breaking the cycle of abuse and providing child-friendly centres where young abuse victims receive medical and psychological treatment. We thank all our supporters for making these donations possible and helping WiA to spread the Fragrance of Freedom.

Marcia Pires

Human trafficking affecting children in South Africa

2011-10-14T02:05:00.000-07:00

Drugs, prostituition and witchcraft are the feeding reasons for criminal practices in the country.

IOL site (www.iolnews.co.za) broke the news on a case of children traffick with a happy end.

Baby Ovayo, 1year and nine months old, was sold by his own grandmother for R 500,00 to a woman who is suspected to conduct children trafficking in Khayelitsha, Cape Town.

Police was able to find the child and arrest the suspect in response to a tip off given. Grandmother and suspect are arrested and will be judged by kidnapping and eventual children trafficking.

Asiphe, the mother, believes her child would be used for witchcraft rituals, one of the main reasons for the trafficking of children in the African Continent.

This is an organized crime, practiced by well established syndicates, and commonly found in Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and Bloemfontein, targeting orphans from HIV pandemic that covers the Continent.

These syndicates recruit or kidnap girls at the age band of 8 to 16 for sexual exploitation and boys to be used for forced labor, beggars, drug trafficking or to be used in farm work, without salary or proper food.

Several means of exploitation are prostitution, pornography, forced marriages, domestic servitude, forced labor, begging, harvest of organs ad criminal activities as drug trafficking.

NPA estimates 30 thousand children in prostitution, 264 thousand in forced labor, a profitable industry of R 70 billions per year and about 40 thousand people crossing our boarders, victims of traffic.

These children are taken from rural areas and from countries with higher poverty levels. It is mentioned that a child can be purchased, in Malawi, for as little as R 50,00; one young lady from Mozambique values from R 500,00 to R 700,00. This lady will entertain 15 clients a day, even if she falls sick or pregnant.

The only viable way to minimize human traffic, that slaves over 27 million people worldwide, is to spread the message and to make people aware of false promises for employment, carrier or better living conditions offered as deceiving propaganda to attract innocent ones.

Called to make a difference

2011-10-07T23:55:00.000-07:00

Since the inception of Women in Action (WiA) in May 2009, members have focused on the goal of making a difference in the lives of those they meet by spreading awareness on various health issues and empowering individuals to take care of themselves.

This group is made up of pastors’ wives who assist their husbands in the communities where they work. Within the group there are those who have become volunteers and been trained by the CANSA Association of South Africa for Cancer Awareness and Bohani Trading and Projects for HIV Awareness. The group first began going to the Oncology Department at the Johannesburg Charlotte Maxeke Hospital three times a week. When they found patients came from Baragwanath and the Far East Rand Hospital, they formed other volunteer groups for those areas.

Now groups visit the Johannesburg hospital every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and other groups go to Baragwanath and the Far East Rand Hospital on Tuesdays. Because some of the patients do not only have cancer but also HIV, WiA has formed a separate group dedicated solely to HIV Awareness. As volunteers, WiA help make the patients in various hospitals more aware about cancer and HIV.

They not only distribute relevant handouts but also take the time to listen to what the patient has to say, and in so doing they come to know of many other needs the patients have. After every visit there are those who take the time to follow-up with the patient by calling them back to see how they are doing. During such call backs we come across those who are in dire need and require further assistance other than just knowledge about their sickness.

The WiA goes that extra mile to visit patients in their homes doing what they can to assist, whether it is going to the CANSA office to collect a pair of walking sticks that will make the person a bit more comfortable or rallying together to buy food so that they’ll have something to eat. It doesn’t matter whether you are a member of the UCKG or not, what matters to us is helping you to cope in your time of need.

The women of Women in Action are just that – women who take action in making a difference in the lives of others. They make every effort to become educated and trained in the relevant area of volunteering so that they can give proper and accurate information to the patients. No matter where the need may arise, you can be sure if a difference needs to be made you’ll find a Woman in Action doing just that.

Mrs Donna Owumbiko (Cancer Volunteer Coordinator)

Fragrance of Freedom Donation

2011-10-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

On 9th August Women in Action launched its theme campaign for 2011 – awareness of human trafficking. The project’s aims are twofold: . To spread awareness about the subject and . To raise

donations in support of NGO’s working in this field Day after day WiA strives to reach its goals.

Today, WiA is very honoured to share with all supporters our first achievements in this campaign.

We have raised the sum of R 35,000 (Thirty five thousand Rand) which was handed over to Mrs. Khanyi Motsa, director of the Hillbrow / Berea Home of Hope.

Mama Khanyi has been working for the past 11 years on the rehabilitation of young girls rescued from abuse and sex slavery. She has counted about 8,000 who have been under her care, young women who found shelter, comfort and a new perspective on life through Mrs Khanyi’s hard work, love and commitment. At the moment she is looking after 56 young women who are attending school.

Uproot your mistrust

2011-09-22T05:01:00.000-07:00

When you look at any relationship, whether it’s between siblings, spouses or colleagues at work, you will see that it can only develop and grow if a bond of trust is established.

Trust is earned only if one is open towards the other person. There should be no disguises, no secrets and no unexpected reactions.

When one knows the other person inside out, there is little to surprise one. You are often able to complete a sentence not yet finished by the other.

Two people, involved in any kind of relationship, can reach this point of connection through long hours of conversation, of sharing, of identification in many aspects of life.

You cannot fully connect with someone who does not share the same principles and values important to you. You cannot become intimate with someone with whom you do not identify.

Now, one of the things that most Christians struggle with is trust -- not particularly in relation to another person but towards God.

We use this expression “Trust in the Lord” a great deal because we read, pray and often talk about it. But do we practise it?

To trust in the Lord requires a close relationship with Him. You need to know Him so that you could trust Him fully.

And there comes the root of the problem I have discovered -- many are not able to trust Him fully, although they say the right words, because they do not have a relationship with Him.

They pray for this trust, they know they need to trust but they simply cannot. In any situation, they always depend on their own understanding and they pray for God’s response to be in line with what they want, subject to what they think is right or wrong.

They believe they are trusting just because they are placing that problem before God but they are not prepared to trust God’s decision in that situation. They are not prepared to let go of their own gut feeling in the situation.

It gets worse when we realise that God’s way of dealing with certain situations seems to be so different from ours, especially when things do not follow the path we believe they should have.

The solution is not to confess that you will trust in God from now on. You are dealing with the consequence of it. By investing in your relationship with God, you will know Him and then you will be able to trust Him fully.

This root of mistrust will be up-rooted from you.

Paul said “For if the first fruit is holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root is holy, so are the branches”. (Rom 11:16/b)

Human Traffick: Organised Crime in South Africa

2011-09-19T00:21:00.000-07:00

The involvement of organised crime in human trafficking has been identified by the IOM (Martens et al 2003; Bermudez 2008), which has tracked the trafficking of people from Thailand, China and Eastern Europe to South Africa. Organised crime has included networks from Russia, Italy, Nigeria, Morocco and China commonly involves the import and export of illicit goods, drugs and illicit trafficking, including of persons (Williams & Brooks 1999: 81-99).

Molo Songololo (2000) has identified elements of organised crime in the trafficking of children to the Western Cape. According to Bermudez (2008: 60), not only are international organised crime syndicates operating transnationally, they are also involved in internal trafficking, often using local South Africans as recruiters. Bermudez (2008: 60) identifies Nigerian organised crime syndicates operating in Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg and Bloemfontein where they are predominantly involved in the trafficking local black South African females into commercial sexual exploitation. It was also found that organised crime syndicates that are operated by foreign nationals use local South Africans as recruiters. They are also involved

in the recruitment of boys from rural regions of the Western and Northern Cape provinces for exploitative labour as street vendors in Cape Town. Men and boys are recruited to work on farms under false promises of pay and suitable accommodation. Boys who are not in school or on school holiday are more frequently targeted.

Regarding transnational trafficking, research reveals that the main supply source outside of the African continent for victims destined for South Africa is Thailand. However, respondents also revealed cases of Russian and Ukrainian nationals being trafficking within the borders of South Africa via the same organised crime networks.

Through this probe, several ‘hot spots’ were identified. As time constraints precluded random probes throughout the entire country, the study focussed on these hot spots:

• Gauteng – with the focus on Pretoria and Johannesburg;

• Northwest – focus on Rustenburg;

• Free State – focus on Bloemfontein and Lesotho/Maseru border;

• KwaZulu-Natal – focus on Durban and the harbour;

• Western Cape – focus on Cape Town and the harbour;

• Eastern Cape – focus on Port Elisabeth surroundings and harbour;

• Limpopo – focus on Messina border (Beit Bridge); and

• Mpumalanga – Lebombo border.

Source: National Presecuting Authority of South Africa

The Fragrance of Freedom - Awareness

2011-09-10T03:21:00.001-07:00

I believe that the more information I am able to share, the more I am contributing to bring awareness on this topic.

And as I mentioned in Soweto, when we see the statistics in front of us, we have a sense of how vast the problem is but when we look into the eyes of one of its victims, we do understand the dimension of loss, indignity and suffering that it imposes to our society.

Trafficking streams

A number of trafficking flows into South Africa have been identified. The four major streams are: (1) trafficking to South Africa from outside of Africa; (2) trafficking to South Africa from within Africa; (3) trafficking within the national borders of South Africa; and (4) trafficking that uses South Africa as a transit point to other countries. A fifth stream, South Africans trafficked abroad, appears to be smaller.

Victims of trafficking

Evidence available to this study confirms that women constitute the largest group of victims in all streams of trafficking.6 Victims of intercontinental trafficking are usually between the ages of 19 and 50 and are trafficked predominantly for sexual exploitation. Women also constitute the largest group of victims trafficked from within the continent and within national borders. Young girls feature prominently in all trafficking streams. The demand for under-age girls for purposes of sexual exploitation is a disturbing feature of the South African trafficking landscape. Reasons for this demand include the perception that young girls pose less of a risk in terms of HIV and also that they represent the ‘sexual desirability of youth’. Very little is known about the trafficking of men and boys, but this research found strong evidence for the trafficking of men and boys from Lesotho for illegal mining in the Free State (mostly to Kimberly and Welkom), involving sophisticated supply chains that include middlemen called ‘cables’ because of their role in linking demand and supply. Young boys are also trafficked to smuggle drugs and for other criminal activities.

Forms of exploitation

In the course of the investigation, many forms of exploitation were identified, including trafficking for prostitution, pornography, forced marriage, domestic servitude, forced labor, begging, and criminal activity including drug trafficking.

Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth are believed to be primary destinations for underage sex tourism, involving children between 10 and 14 years of age. This pattern indicates an international component, in which people seeking sex tourism travel to developing countries looking for anonymity and vulnerable children who are available for prostitution.

Interviews with labor inspectors suggest that labor exploitation of migrants is commonplace. Migrants (frequently undocumented) from South Africa’s neighboring countries and further afield are employed in domestic services and in the agricultural, security, hospitality and retail sectors. Their vulnerability is often exploited by employers and unscrupulous labor brokers. There has also been an increase in female migration from rural to urban areas within the country in recent years. These women tend to be employed in less-skilled jobs, particularly domestic work in urban areas, with many cases of domestic servitude having been identified.

Intelligence-led investigation revealed the trafficking of body parts for muti and religious rituals. Albinos were identified as vulnerable to human traffickers for the harvesting of body parts, due to the belief that a ‘white’ skin has potent powers. Research also uncovered the trafficking of people, often children, for ritual sacrifice by satanic cults.

Souce: NPA full report, 2010

Women’s month - what is left?

2011-09-04T07:25:00.000-07:00

We have now finished another Women’s Month, acknowledging the legacy left by those courageous 20,000 who marched to the Union Buildings 55 years ago.

What is left now for us women?

Should we just carry on with life and wait until next August to celebrate the 56th anniversary of this memorable event?

I personally don’t think so. I believe that we need instead to pursue the spirit of courage displayed by those women.

They showed no complacency towards a situation imposed on them. They showed no fear but were determined to get what was important for their well-being and their future.

Today in 2011, we have freedom, development and many possibilities in South Africa but women’s lives are still very limited.

This proves that any change has to flow from the inside out and not be bound by circumstances. The situation facing those women 55 years ago was terrible but they were determined to achieve change and they made it happen.

When you are subject to the circumstances around you and allow them to rule your life, even if they are positive, you will not be able to bring about change because it did not start from inside you.

Any small difficulty, barrier or challenge will seem big enough to stop you, to take your dream away and to deprive you of a future. Actually, to be honest, you will end up allowing all this to happen.

Paul said to the Romans “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God”.

Are you prepared to continue with the same kind of life you have today for another 11 months? And when August 2012 comes, we will celebrate Women’s Month, hear beautiful poems, see what many other women are doing for society… and your life will keep on being the same.

Make the sacrifice to be renewed through your life: enjoy the freedom they opened the way for and do something great in your own life. Do not look around and be shaped by the situation. Find within yourself the power to transform it. Then when next August comes, you will have every reason to celebrate. You will be a woman of courage who marched towards a new life.

In the spirit of those 20,000 heroines, I hope you had a happy Women’s Month.

A word of gratitude

2011-08-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

(Photo shot during one of the vigils held by pastors' wives while preparing the bracelets - it was a Friday, at 3am)

It is with overwhelming joy that I extend my word of gratitude to all those who have attended to our event in Soweto, on the 9^th of August, allowing themselves the opportunity to be educated about Human Trafficking.

I also, on behalf of WiA members, extend our gratitude for the response of our attendees in taking action against such social injustice. Words are beautifully said and heard but action brings a change.

All bracelets (about 1,200) prepared by the pastors’ wives were sold out in less than 15 minutes, leaving a group empty-handed but still willing to participate. The response was amazing. Thank you members of the UCKG Family for supporting us once again.

We have marked our 3^rd year in a roll celebrating Women’s Day in Soweto and in our third year of inception for WiA. I cannot wave my thankfulness to our WiA members, pastors’ wives, who diligently make of people’s suffer their cause.

Marcia Pires

WiA Founder @ The “Fragrance of Freedom” Campaign

Photos from Soweto

2011-08-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

Were you in Soweto yesterday?

Over 10,000 people attended our Awareness Campaign against Human trafficking in our Cenacle in Soweto.

The Fragrance of Freedom Campaign wa

s launched to bring awareness on the topic and to raise funds to keep the message being spread.

Are you part of it yet?

We have mentioned that today we celebrate what 20,000 women did 55 years ago, paving the way to freedom.

What are we doing with our freedom?

We should rather use it wisely and pave other people's freedom in many different ways.

Being part of this campaign is a practical manner to say more than words but take action.

If you could not show your participation yesterday, it is still time to do so.

Find it out at any of our UCKG Branches in South Africa.

The Fragrance of Freedom

2011-08-07T01:04:00.001-07:00

We meet in Soweto, on the 9th of August, 10am, to learn more about human trafficking.... are you or your child at risk?

You cannot!

2011-07-31T01:35:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed how God has created our bodies as perfect machines with such a complexity of functions, self-healing devices, self-renewing cells, etc?

However there is a particular limitation to human vision in that it is impossible for us to look in two different places, at the same time, in our range of 95 degrees.

Spiritually speaking, the same applies. We cannot focus on two different things at the same time. We will end up concentrating on one or the other.

That said, we cannot have a great vision for the future if the present is occupying most of the frame.

We are not able to invest our thoughts, commitment and efforts to conquer things far bigger than what we face, if, at the same time, the image of our insecurities, complexes and shortcomings looms larger before our eyes.

Do you need a breakthrough in your career? You have been praying about it, prepared your CV, searched on the internet and listed all the big companies in the market related to your job position. Great initiative!

But now there is an image at the back of your mind casting a shadow over your actions … who you are.

You do not have the required appearance, you do not have the necessary qualifications, you do not have a very successful job history or description and this image appears even greater than what you want to achieve.

The truth is that while you dwell on your past experiences, your shortcomings, your inabilities, your weaknesses, you will not be able to move towards your conquest.

You will feel like you want a change but you will not be able to act on that change because you are enslaved by your mindset.

Who you are shines brighter than who you can become. Right there, all your plans are doomed to failure.

You focus your purpose on faith, you feel a spirit of revolt about your situation, you sacrifice, but you don’t believe in who you are.

We cannot disregard the fact that we all have shortcomings. Yes, we are human beings, but God has equipped us with faith to understand that when we cannot, the One who is in us can accomplish all things!

Do not limit God’s vision for your life to your own range. His is unlimited -- yours is only 95 degrees.

Next Time

2011-07-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

Next time you feel that GOD cannot use you, just remember that:

Noah was a drunkard

Abraham was too old

Issac was timid

Jacob was a liar

Leah was ugly

Joseph was a slave

Moses stuttered words and was unable to speak in public

Gideon doubted that God had chosen him

Samson had long hair and was an adulterer

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young

David committed adultery and murder

Elisha was suicidal

Isaiah preached naked

Jonah run away from God

Rahab was a prostitute

Job went bankrupt and became bedridden

John Baptist was very eccentric who even ate insects

Mary Magdalene was once possessed by 7 demons

Naomi was a helpless widow

Paul was too religious, he was fanatic

Peter disowned Christ

The disciples slept while He prayed

Martha was a busy body and confused her priorities

The samaritan woman divorced more than once

Zacchaeus was too short

Timothy had an ulcer...

And Lazarus was dead!

Also do not forget: Jesus helped all of them!!!

Who are you?

2011-07-17T01:43:00.000-07:00

Who were the 400 men who joined David at the Cave of Adullam?

The answer is in 1 Sam 22:2 And everyone who was in distress, everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was discontented gathered to him. So he became captain over them. And there were about four hundred men with him.

They were, in other words, the rejected members of society, those who had no value, no name to honour, unwanted, neglected, dysfunctional and not worth anything.

Because of their low self-esteem, lack of professional qualifications and financial standing, they opted to live in the deserts and caves with David who happened to be fleeing Saul at that time.

But as the chapters of the books of Samuel, Kings and Chronicles unfold in the Bible, we learn that they became men of such value that they were later known as the Mighty Warriors of David.

They were men who were such skilled warriors that Jashobeam killed 800 men in a single battle and Eleazer and Shammah killed more enemies alone than the entire Israelite Army.

Above all, they were men who supported David, once a shepherd boy, unskilled in leadership , all the way to his Kingship. He was a man according God’s own heart.

Now, what made the difference turning discontented and distressed men into mighty warriors? What turned a shepherd boy into a King?

It was the indignity of the lives they and their families were subjected to. This indignity bred in them a spirit of revolt, not in words but in action, battle after battle, war after war, paving the way for them to become commanders of armies.

Who are you? Someone who is discontented, distressed, in debt, living a life of indignity, being humiliated by circumstances all around?

It is your time to add new pages to the History of God’s people. It is your time to make of your revulsion more than words but actions to turn your life around.

Be one of God’s Mighty Warriors today.

Family does matter - Testimony

2011-07-11T03:39:00.000-07:00

This is the result of this work - touching family members!

Family does matter - Part One

2011-07-11T03:38:00.001-07:00

This day

2011-07-04T09:34:00.001-07:00

I often wonder how can people allow their lives to pass by without purpose or reason.

When I ask a youngster what is he planning for the future and he tells me he has no idea or has never thought about it, quite honestly, I feel like asking him how much longer will he waste his days?

Have you ever thought that when the clock strikes midnight, this day is over and you will never have it again?

You may have similar days … you may have better days, but you will never have this particular day again.

The day I realised this, I decided to make every one of my days count. I cannot accept that I can live one day without making something special of it, without touching someone in some way, without growing within myself or without leaving some mark.

I cannot accept letting a week go by without seeing changes or improvement in myself or in the situation around me because, the truth is, I will never ever live through this very same week again.

And this realisation has made me value even more this day, this week, this month, this year.

Life is too short and precious to be ruled by complexes, insecurities, depression, low self-esteem and a heavy load that tends to pull you back instead of pushing you ahead towards your dreams.

See the butterfly -- the most enchanting insect we have. Most live for a maximum of a month while other species sometimes have a lifetime of nine months.

Still, they don’t waste time and they quickly make sure they mate so that their species will continue on earth. They have a short lifespan but they use it to guarantee the future.

And how they display God’s glory in this world through their beauty!

In the same way, use this day to build your future. Do not be chained by words and feelings meant to knock you down and out.

Make each and every day count in your life.

Childhood Cancer Awareness - WiA

2011-06-29T05:45:00.001-07:00

Women in Action (WiA) held a childhood cancer awareness conference at the Cenacle of the Holy Spirit in Park Station, on Saturday, 25th June. The aim of the conference was to educate people about child cancer and the importance of early detection.

Opening the conference, Bev du Toit founder of an organisation named “Lets talk about cancer”, who is also a cancer survivor, said that about 500- 600 children will be diagnosed with cancer in South Africa while about 500 children will die before being diagnosed.

“Cancer is not one but three hundred different diseases and it begins with changes in body cells. Cancer is a deformation on certain cells and it can only be treated by doctors. The immune system protects the body and the more fruits and vegetables a person eats the better the immune system as it is strengthened. Though cancer is mostly found in older people, men and women, it doesn’t mean children don’t get it. Unlike the adult cancer, children often respond well to treatment. The earlier a child is diagnosed the easier the treatment and better the chance of survival. The goal of any type of cancer treatment is to cure the child. In childhood cancer there is a 90% cure rate and the most important key is early diagnosis,” she explained.

She also spoke of the different symptoms of child cancer, side effects and the treatment needed for all the different types of childhood cancer. The symptoms range from nausea, fever, soar throat, vomiting, drowsiness, sweating, problem with balance, lumps, the unexplained in the body.

Bev also emphasised the importance of doing regular check-ups especially in the case where family members had died from cancer and the importance of knowing the type of cancer they died from as only 10% are hereditary. Remaining 90% is environmental.

Women in Action believe that knowledge is power and it has changed people’s lives through different projects such as “save a Tamar” and others. “Fear and not being aware of what is happening will not bring cure. We need to understand how our bodies and of our children’s bodies work, said Mrs Marcia, the founder of WiA. WiA dedicated two weeks to raise funds as their pledge of support to the LTAC. Mrs Marcia handed the proceeds of R6000 to Bev du Toit to extend it’s cancer awareness campaigns.

You just don't know

2011-06-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

Being a counsellor I have so often heard people saying things to me such as “I don’t have the strength” or “I cannot bear it”.
And indeed I do not disregard these people or their feelings. When we are confronted with situations, challenges and obstacles beyond our limits, this is exactly how we feel – powerless and without the strength to face them.
We immediately recoil, turning into our inner-selves, avoiding even the thought of what we don’t want to face. Everything around seems so scary and it is as if life cannot go on.
But the truth is, we just don’t know the strength we have inside -- not only to face this particular challenge but many more which will eventually come our way.
Several weeks ago we learnt, with sorrow, about the passing of Ma Sisulu – a female icon of our society and an activist by nature who struggled against apartheid.
Reading her biography I found such a wealth of examples of how one can be strong beyond one’s limits.
A young woman born in the Transkei, marrying at the age of 26, she had no political aspirations but became the first woman ever to be confined in a solitary cell for nearly two months because she took a stand against a situation.
Not only that, she was arrested several times after this but she still chose to march with the thousands of women to the Union Buildings against the “dompas”. She supported her husband during his days underground and raised five children virtually alone, during his 25 years of improsonment in Robbin Island.
In the midst of most stringent restrictions exercised by the regime, she started a charity foundation to look after destitute children and elderly people.
We pay tribute to her legacy but, above all, we use her as an example to illustrate how strong a person can be if they have determination for a cause, not knowing the reserves of strength within themselves.
How much stronger can you be knowing God is at your side? And do you know why? Because God has made us perfect. Do you believe He has just overlooked the fact that we need to have a strong spirit to face this world?
He intends to use you to display His glory in this world.
So make Paul’s words your own today – “When I am weak, then I am strong” and confess it with all your heart. You don’t know it, but you will surely find out what an “iron woman” you can be with God.

Modern Young Women

2011-06-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Technology has opened an entire world of new contacts to us, but there is a dark side to all this freedom and connectivity.
Much as we enjoy interacting, making new friends, being part of the world and fulfilling our need to belong to a group, we could end up losing our own identity in the process.
Personally, I think that the most difficult challenge for a young woman in our society today is to stand her ground, to be loyal to her values, and to uplift her standards.
There is the very common phenomenon nowadays that most of you have heard of or will be familiar with from experience … young people are so often subject to peer pressure.
What is peer pressure if not a “false idea” impressed upon young minds to make everyone be alike, adhere to the same practices, enjoy the same things and be ‘one of the crowd’ which so often leads one to wrong choices?
If one wants to be part of this group, one has to follow in others’ footsteps, change one’s behaviour and lose one’s own identity just to become a clone of someone else.
I constantly say that there is beauty in being different, in being yourself. The world is looking for someone who takes a stand and goes in the opposite direction to the crowd, enabling him or her to become a role model.
My message to you is don’t be afraid of being different. Don’t be afraid of standing your ground and holding on to your values. Don’t be ashamed of saying you do not believe in sex before marriage. You do not need to experiment with substances to feel happy. You can make a statement on your femininity and express who you are by the way you dress. Believe me when I say that by being different, bold and beautiful, you will definitely set a trend and make an impact on those around you. Don’t give in to peer pressure.
I want to highlight the example of a young woman in the Bible who, when she was in her early teens, was confronted with a life-changing situation, but still said, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” (Lk 1: 38).
I am talking about the young Mary, who was chosen to give birth to the Messiah. When you look at her story today, you know about its “happy ending”. Yet it was 2,000 years ago and she was a 14-year-old, who was pregnant while being promised to a man in marriage. This is what I would call a good example of “peer pressure”. Despite it all, she said yes.
In order for God to work in and through you today, you will need to be like Mary, and make yourself available to Him, not just settle for being one of the crowd.

The Modern Day Woman…..at what cost….

2011-05-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

At the turn of the century, women’s social roles greatly expanded. Back then women were really women, they had loving affectionate personalities and no matter what her conditions were she always made sure that the needs of her family were met, however, by the 1900, living conditions began to change and more and more women had to leave their home life and go out into the working world. A new era had dawn on woman herself where her voice was demanded to be heard, they wanted their rights of being treated equally, if man can vote, so can they, if man can head a company, so can they, in the process of clamouring for her rights, who she is and what she represents gradually began to fade in the background – she began to loose her identify of what she was made for or even what she is capable of, she no longer remembered what is her role or place in society.

In today’s society we can clearly see the results of her decision, despite being known to be a better leader than men, they have sacrificed their marriages, their integrity, their self-respect, their children, all for the purpose of having to be the one at the top, the one to be holding more power, the one to be dominating. The entertainment industry have spoken very loudly that you cannot have it all if you’re a woman, if you want to be the centre of attraction, the one in the leading role, then forget the husband, forget the kids, forget being a homemaker – indirectly they are saying – forget yourself.

There is a truth that still stands today but has forgotten by all, and that truth is: as a woman, yes, you can have your career and at the same time have your family – you can indeed have it all. The Bible shows us that Deborah was unique among the women and men of the Bible, she was a prophetess, a wife, a judge and a military leader – all in one, a combination of authority and responsibility (exactly what every woman wants), this position was held by only two other individuals in the Bible; Moses and Samuel.

This example that God has given us shows that we as women can be entrusted with much, we can be entrusted with the responsibility of making a difference without loosing sight of whom we are or loosing the characteristics proper to us which is, being discrete, respectful, dedicated, admirable, caring, compassionate and above all feminine.

The order of her title shows where her priorities lies: Prophetess, wife, judge and military leader (God, family, career). With God being in first place it enabled her to hold up to the other responsibilities and accomplish all that was placed before her at no cost to herself as a woman or her family or the nation of Israel. When God is first place in our lives, He gives us the ability to be all that we can be and then some, for after all in this He is glorified.

The word of God teaches us that; “Through wisdom a house is built and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” (Prov. 24:3&4) – There’s always room for change.

Donna Onwubiko

Living on Credit

2011-05-05T06:56:00.000-07:00

When I read Luke chapter 7, I first thought of those who had grown up in the church and, in theory, did not lead such a troubled life as those who only joined the church later in their lives.

As I was thinking about this passage, I had another insight and realised that this applies particularly to those who are in the church today.

Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.”(Lk 7:47)

When many of us came to the church, we were living a terrible life, some with pasts we regretted, others from broken families, victims of abuse and misery. We found Jesus who gave us our dignity back.

Then our prayers poured out from our soul and we would seek for His Spirit every day. Time went by … we were baptised, we changed our ways, we stopped living in sin. Some had their encounters with God and little by little, we did not have so much to be ashamed of any more.

Next, we became more committed to activities in the church: youth group, evangelism, assistants’ group, leading Caleb, belonging to Sisterhood and we were entrusted with many responsibilities and duties. We learnt how to use our spare time in the church.

We opened a “credit account” with God based on our good deeds. Knowing we were sinners, we also felt we did not live in sin. Today we could only be blamed for a word, a thought, something we didn’t do or an inappropriate gesture.

Automatically we started giving, giving and giving. Without paying much attention, we replaced our intimate moments with the Holy Spirit by praying for lost souls, for a project, for blessings, for our love life.

This is the quickest way to become lukewarm and cold though being inside the church and doing the Work of God. We live on the merits and good deeds, no longer on our total commitment to and relationship with our Lord, our Creator, our Saviour!

One who is born of God, knows that no matter what he does, he still has an unsettled debt to His Father. When he stands before the magnitude and greatness of His Creator, he understands that he is the same filthy and unworthy person he was when he first came to Jesus.

He may now be redeemed but he does not live on credit. The Holy Spirit is his priority, his strength and the guarantee of his salvation.

Your Identity

2011-04-23T02:22:00.000-07:00

One of the problems that most threatens women throughout the world, regardless of their background, race or education is insecurity.

We very easily feel insecure about our appearance, our education, our projects, our talents, our opinions, our manners, our family history – in fact, just about everything.

Because of such insecurities, we always imagine every other person more suitable to perform some duties or develop projects, whether in the capacity of mothers, wives or friends, as being better than us, and we pity ourselves for this.

In this case we don’t even take into account women who hide behind rage, anger and rudeness so that people don’t know how insecure or unstable they are.

What little we learn, what little we are, we just hold onto in desperation. We are not prepared to learn new things or to try new trends that would possibly put our image at risk and push us out of our comfort zone.

I may have suggestions from others about changing my appearance but I grew up convincing myself that this hairstyle was good enough, so I denied myself the opportunity of trying something new. If faced with the fact that the new might be better, I would have to agree with those who originally suggested the change.

I may have a wish to change my career but the fear of adapting to a new lifestyle or not being able to deliver what I promised prevents me from giving it a try.

I may feel a gap in my relationship with God but the fear of confronting it overpowers my desire to give myself entirely to my Saviour. At the end of the day, I am a Christian -- I have been a Christian all my life.

So women continue with their mediocre lives, not enjoying the fullness they could experience because they have been captive to so little.

In every field of life, we can only have more if we give what is now in our hands.

Spiritually speaking, I can only be the one God meant me to be if I surrender to Him the person I now am, if I am prepared to lose my identity and inherit God’s identity in me.

This is the biggest sacrifice of all: when you are prepared to leave your will, your ideas, your thoughts, your life aside and embrace what God has prepared for you.

These 21 days of fasting gave each one of us the opportunity to sacrifice our identity and to receive God’s presence in us.

If God takes the lead, why should insecurity still keep me a slave?

A simple room

2011-04-15T03:44:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to visit the Holy Land in January, with the ladies of the Sisterhood and I learnt something special about the “upper room” or “cenacle” which I need to share, since we will be opening the doors of our Cenacle of the Holy Spirit at Park Station.

This room, so “famous” today, was just a simple room in one of the popular residences of that time. It was there that our Lord Jesus asked His disciples to obtain permission from its owner to use for the Last Supper.

What I had not realised before, in relation to this particular venue, was that it was the same place which bore witness to other memorable events, namely:

▪ The Washing of the Feet

▪ The revelation of the betrayer

▪ The appearances of Jesus after His resurrection

▪ The gathering of the disciples after the Ascension of Jesus

▪ The election of Matthias as an apostle

▪ The beginnings of the first Christian church, since this was where the apostles usually stayed in Jerusalem

▪ The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples on the day of Pentecost

Today, that simple room is one of the most important Christian sites in the world and also the inspiration for our Cenacle in Johannesburg.

But, I wondered, what has made it so important? Then I understood that its essence was in the sacrifice that Jesus made for us.

It was in this room that He, knowing of all the suffering that would lie ahead from that hour onward, surrendered Himself to carry out God’s plan of salvation for mankind.

It reminded me a precious lesson: sacrifice is the element that changes the very nature of our existence. We go from total insignificance and separation from God’s plan and purpose to become living testimonies of His power.

Living in full expectation of the pouring of God’s Spirit upon His church and of the privilege of going into our own Cenacle in Park Station, one point is clear, if there is no surrendering of my own will to the Will of God, my life will only resemble a simple room.

HOLY FASTING

2011-03-29T10:53:00.001-07:00

The Universal Church throughout the world has embarked in this very special fasting for the pouring of the Holy Spirit on the 17^th of April.

As mentioned in Joel 1:4 – we are calling for a Holy Fasting that means, a fasting not by obligation or just to follow the crowd, but a fasting from our spirit and mind for this cause.

Therefore, we would have many news to share with you about our WiA recent activities however we will leave them for a later occasion.

For now, what really matters is to be set apart and to be in this fasting from all sort of entertainments, dedicating every minute of our day, every day of these 21 days to seek for God’s Spirit to be poured upon His church.

On the 17^th of April, all of us will be able to say in only one voice Ah… what a day! And it would be so sad to know that you, dear reader, had the same opportunity and let it go by without engaging in this purpose of faith.

I will see you again on the 18^th of April.

A mother who returned to God because of her little girl

2011-02-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

Nozipho N. mother of Lindiwe, 11, from Soweto, came back to the church because of the tasks her daughter was doing, given by the pre sisterhood. “ I started to come to the church 1994 and everything was going well for me, I was still at school and I got a job I was happy, I could see that I was going far with my life. But things started to change I had many excuses for not being able to come to church, and I ended up living the church in 2003. Things became worse, that I gave birth to a baby boy who was very sick, living under oxygen's and the father of my children left me.

I was stressed, but one day an old man who stays in our back room gave my daughter Lindiwe the newspaper of the church and asked her if she could come with him to the church. She was 9 years old then and I saw no problem in allowing her to go, she was so excited after returning from church and she asked to go more often and since then she never stopped. She came back home with a form about pre sisterhood and asked me to read and sign for her, I didn't understand anything I just signed because I could see it is from the church. Amazing my daughter started to do things at home, I couldn't understand and she explained to me that she was in Pre sisterhood doing her tasks. My daughter became responsible in helping her siblings and writing letters to me and receiving a kiss from her. I was touched and happy to see what she was doing, this brought me back to the church, a time wasted living a life far from God. In this one month back in the church My husband came back after 3 years, my son is recovering well. I am a proud mother Lindiwe's character and willingness brought me back to the house of God, me and my family are united now because of the character Lindiwe showed in the house.” said Nozipho

“In pre sisterhood I learned to respect and listen to elderly people. I was a disobedient child, my mom will spank me now and then. But coming to church and been in pre sisterhood changed my life and my family, I am so happy to see my mom and siblings with me in the house of God. I clean, write my mom love letters, look after my siblings and I read my bible everyday.” Said Lindiwe

This is our greatest reward, to see transformations that bring a blessing upon a whole family. You can also be part of this blessing and belong to the same family, God's family.

Pre Sisterhood, Gauteng

Pre Sisterhood in Gauteng

2011-02-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

Young sisters of tomorrow

In the last week of January the Pre Sisterhood in South Africa took pledges from Sunday school girls, aged between six and 13 years, with particular attention to those from 11 upwards, who aspire to join the Sisterhood one day. It was a special day for the young girls in Johannesburg and Cape Town who have spent the past month completing tasks.In the two provinces, Big Sisters, welcomed all guests and children to celebrate their pledges to the Pre Sisterhood. Their message was: “Today you are becoming baby sisters because of the tasks you have done. You are going to receive your hair clips and certificates and promise something special to God … that you will follow Jesus and love God with all your heart. You are going to live your life to please God and that makes you special. More tasks are coming for you, to groom you to become stronger and more beautiful to God.”Big Sister, Marcia Pires, led the opening prayer after which guests were shown video clips of how the little girls had shown their joy and commitment in carrying out their tasks. The “baby sisters” from Johannesburg also enacted a drama based on the life of Ruth.“But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her.” (Ruth 1:16-18)The story shows that Ruth was pledged to Naomi because she followed in her footsteps. In the same way we hope to raise many more Ruths in our Sunday School. The little girls pledged to walk in the ways of God.The “baby sisters” took the following pledge: “ I as a baby sister agree to please God in everything I do. * To be obedient at home, at school, at the church and everywhere I go. *To honour my parents, siblings and adults. * To listen to my Pre-Big sisters. * To be honest and always tell the truth. *To be an example and behave like the young lady I want to be.”After taking the pledge the Pre-Big Sisters presented hair clips and certificates to the “baby sisters”.

Make a difference in 2011

2010-12-29T09:19:00.001-08:00

2010 has been a pretty exciting year for South Africa. We hosted the World Cup and did so in style.

It has been a good year for WiA as well. We celebrated our first anniversary, marking a year in which every month saw new events, activities and ideas which brought all of us closer together.

Not only that, we have lived each day to honour our motto: “Knowledge is Power” and have embarked on a drive to empower women in our churches and surrounding communities the best way possible.

We might not have achieved all that we dreamed of and aimed for in such limited time but I believe we managed to reach many women throughout the country with our campaigns.

Alexandra welcomed the Women’s Health Project, which offered information on cancer and many other diseases. The community was given medical exams and workshops. A total of 2,700 women had access to these services during three days of intensive work.

On 9^th August WiA launched the “Save a Tamar Campaign, a heartfelt drive prompted by all the experience we have in counselling and supporting women who suffer from abuse.

We have said repeatedly: Abuse from any source, at any level, disguised as culture or tradition is simply not right. Abuse takes one’s dignity away.

Our purpose was to offer awareness and comfort. In this endeavour we have held awareness campaigns in Gauteng, Western Province and KwaZulu Natal.

We originally planned to bring our campaign to a close on the 10^th of December, in line with the 16 Days of Activism against Women and Child Abuse, but have decided this is not possible or fair to so many women.

Since the day “Save a Tamar” campaign began, WiA has received countless messages from women who suffer abuse and others who have found peace thorough this campaign. We feel it is necessary to continue.

We will have a busy schedule in 2011 when we take the “Save a Tamar” campaign to other provinces in South Africa, but we shall continue to look for opportunities to become more involved and to assist this cause in other ways.

As for you, all supporters of WiA , we could not have achieved this much or offered assistance to other organisations without your constant and unflagging support.

On behalf of all of WiA members, please accept our gratitude and best wishes that 2011 will bring greatness into your life. We count on you to help us make a difference in South Africa.

Marcia Pires

Wia Founder

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

2010-12-04T06:41:00.000-08:00

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is also called intimate partner abuse. Domestic abuse can be broadly defined as a pattern of abusive behaviour by one or both partners in an intimate relationship such as marriage, cohabitation, dating, within a family or among friends.

Forms of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can manifest itself in different forms:

• Physical abuse includes hitting, slapping, throwing objects, using a knife or gun to threaten someone, pulling hair, punching with the fist, etc.

• Sexual abuse includes forced sexual intercourse, being forced to watch or act out pornography, touching genitals by mouth, forcing sex by inserting a penis or an object into a vagina, forced prostitution, etc.

• Emotional abuse includes threat of harm, humiliation in front of others, limiting movement outside a home, etc

• Financial abuse includes being forced to hand over money, being prevented from earning an income, being forced to ask for money for basic needs, etc.

What causes domestic violence?

Domestic violence may start when one partner feels the need to control and dominate the other. Abusers may feel this need to control their partner because of various reasons -- low self-esteem, extreme jealousy, difficulties in regulating anger and other strong emotions, or when they feel inferior to the other partner in terms of education and socio-economic background. Some men with very traditional beliefs may think they have the right to control women because women aren’t equal to men. Victims of domestic violence can develop depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies and feelings of helplessness.

PRACTICAL AND LEGAL SOLUTIONS TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

You can take preventative measures to stop violence by applying for a protection order against the person abusing you. The Domestic Violence Act 116/1998 makes provision for a person who is being abused to apply to the Magistrate’s Court for a protection order. This is done on application and needs to be granted by a magistrate, if there is evidence supporting allegations of abuse. An order may be requested by anyone who is, or was, in a domestic relationship with the respondent (abusing party). An application for a protection order can be brought on behalf of the applicant by any other person with the applicant’s consent.

source: POWA - JHB

16 Days of Activism

2010-11-28T05:23:00.001-08:00

Imagine if no rape or child abuse took place in South Africa for 16 days. That’s the challenge posed by the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign — for South Africans to declare a truce on violence against women and children – and, ultimately, to make it permanent.

Throughout the country, South Africans are being called on to combat violence against women and children. This appeal is fully supported by Women in Action (WIA) which started the “Save a Tamar” campaign to oppose abuse on Women’s Day, 9th August this year.

This is the 11th year that South Africa is taking part in the global 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December.

While the campaign only runs for 16 days each year, its objectives are reinforced by a year-long programme and a national plan to combat abuse.

Despite our renowned Constitution and a legislative framework which safeguards women’s and children’s rights, South Africa still witnesses high levels of violence against women and children. Government, business, civil society, faith-based organisations and the media are all participating in the drive to increase awareness of the negative impact of violence and abuse on women and children.

In its four-month long campaign against women and child abuse, WiA members have repeated the message that abuse stripped women of their dignity and most women in society could not strike back at those who abused them.

Our Children

2010-11-14T09:56:00.000-08:00

As parents, we invest so much in the wellbeing of our children because we expect to be able to give them what maybe we could not have.

We build dreams for their future. We plan in every way possible for their school years. We think about their adulthood, when they will start dating, have a family of their own. All in all, we plan well into the future.

We do it in a way as if we had the power to make everything happen just as we plan or dream.

We end up forgetting that as soon as they understand themselves as human b

eings they will make their own choices.

Some of them good, others not so wise and they will have to live with the result of their choices. As we will too, as their parents.

This is the reason why we should invest far more in their spiritual and emotional growth rather than try to set aside wealth for their future.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Prov 22:6)

Our Sunday School plays a very important role in complementing parents’ discipline because we envisage teaching our children to choose according to the Word of God.

If they attend our church services, they may not fully comprehend the message that is mostly aimed at adults.

In our Sunday School the message is conveyed in an interesting manner, through games, charts, pictures, puzzles, drama and other tools that are more fitting for their level of understanding.

All that is required is that you arrive at church a little earlier and enrol your child in the Sunday School.

Believe me, this is a true investment in their future. Whatever they learn Sunday after Sunday will be important for the rest of their lives.

Marcia Pires

Wia Walks on

2010-10-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

Once more the ladies of WiA had an opportunity to show their support and help to raise awareness of breast cancer by taking part in the Avon Justine iThemba Crusade of Hope Walkathon 2010, which was held on October 17th. This was the fifth year of the Walkathon, which was led by a group of breast cancer survivors from Bosom Buddies and what a turn out there was – more than15,000!

The event commenced from the Marks Park Sports Complex in Auckland Park. Participants had the opportunity to choose the 5km or 8km walk. WiA took part in the 8km, showing total dedication in everything they did.

Though they were all exhausted and aching at the end of the walk, they enjoyed themselves.

Participants from WiA were: Pinky, Joann, Faith, Thembani, Linda, Fikile, Donna and Chabi.

WiA and the Teddy Bear Clinic

2010-10-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

The ‘Save a Tamar’ campaign culminates in a donation

of R25,000 from WiA to the Teddy Bear Clinic

Women In Action (WiA) presented a cheque for R25,000 to the Teddy Bear Clinic in Johannesburg last week to show its support for the fight against women and c

hildren abuse.

The ‘Save a Tamar’ campaign was launched in August and will run until 16th December when it will be replaced by the 16 days of activism campaign. This drive is also directed against the abuse of women and children.

Members of WIA, all pastors’ wives, designed and made more than 3000 key holders to be sold during this campaign.

“The reason we decided to start this campaign is because we have seen the sad reality that people go through on a daily basis. Women should not be abused because that’s not how God wants it. When this campaign finishes, we are not going to sit down and relax. We are planning to tackle other issues that our communities are faced with,” said Mrs Marcia Pires who is responsible for the evangelistic work of the WiA.

She added that the ‘Save a Tamar’ campaign would also be conducted in other provinces because abuse of women and children affected people from all walks of life.

CANSA acknowledges Women in Action

2010-09-30T01:25:00.000-07:00

WiA members have, since the establishment of the group, shown their support for different causes which affect all communities in South Africa, especially the fight against cancer.

In efforts to spread awareness as widely as possible, WiA went into partnership with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) to organise massive National Cancer Awareness campaigns in 2009 and in 2010. This co-operative effort continues to the present, with several WiA members providing cancer support at oncology wards at the Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town and the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg.

WiA was invited to CANSA’s 2010 Annual General Meeting held in Muldersdrift on 14th September 2010. This was CANSA’s gesture of appreciation for WiA’s contribution and recognised WiA’s positive participation in supporting the fight against cancer.

WiA was awarded two Certificates of Recognition, one for involvement in and assistance with the three-day Women’s Cancer Awareness Campaign in Alexandra in February 2010, and the other for the outstanding work of the WiA’s hospital group leader, Fikile Mongale, who oversees the group which provides daily support to cancer patients in the Gauteng area.

The WiA’s fight against cancer continues!

Angels Walk

2010-09-08T06:31:00.000-07:00

WiA members have showed their support and solidarity for the cause promoted by the Breast Health Foundation by joining the “Angels Walk” which took place on Sunday, 29^th August, from 7am, at the Johannesburg Zoo.

The “Angels Walk” is in its 3^rd year and is a fundraising drive for women to walk and raise money for cancer. Proceeds will be used to upgrade the Oncology Clinic which deals with approximately 600 patients every week at the Johannesburg General Hospital.

Although WiA Members have been hard at work on the “Save a Tamar” campaign for those who are directly or indirectly affected by abuse, they still offered time and support to the BHF.

Each new theme adopted by WiA members comes as an opportunity to learn, become empowered and to be able to empower others. It is an honour for us to reinforce the message learnt during last year’s Cancer Awareness campaign.

Take care of your health, of your body and be a voice in your community to motivate other women to go for annual check-ups.

Wia Members who particpated: Anna, Donna, Faith, Sonia, Busi, Fikile and Pinky!

SPEAK OUT

2010-08-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Since we launched our campaign in Soweto, members and visitors looking for counselling have contacted us.

We understand how difficult it must be for any person, still suffering from the emotional consequences of abuse, to speak out or trust someone else with such intimate personal details.

On the other hand, if the person is not prepared to confront this ghost from the past, she will not find healing. The memory that haunts will always be hidden inside her thoughts, bringing insecurities, complexes and fears which push her to make the wrong decisions.

Perhaps she feels he will never find someone else to marry and start a family with, so he needs to settle for a relationship, which diminishes her. Maybe he feels his dignity was taken away from him so now it is better to live a perverted life, to fall into prostitution or be abusive to others.

The cycle goes on and on in our society until the day many decide to take their own lives.

I usually compare such cases with that of a child who falls and hurts his knee. The first step is to clean the wound with a strong antiseptic that will disinfect the skin of bacteria, but in the process, the wound will bleed and cause pain all over again.

By speaking out you will be applying God’s antiseptic to your wound. You will feel the pain, the shame, the hate, the revulsion, but you will gain strength and find healing.

Shutting yourself off from this world, and from the reality that abuse happened to you, is certainly not a solution. Your pain will only harm / rot your inner self.

Marcia Pires

WiA members offer counselling and prayers to victims of abuse every Wednesday, at 4 pm, at the Cathedral of Faith at Park Station.

Stop being passive about abuse

2010-08-16T06:12:00.000-07:00

One year ago we were in Soweto to celebrate Watint’Abafazi, Watint’ Ibokodo but there is still behaviour in our society that has been striking women and they do not find the strength to strike back: ABUSE.

Abuse from of any source or at any level is just not right. It means taking away someone’s dignity.

God created us on the basis of respect, actually to be His likeness and image. God is not abusive. He is the one who first gave mankind the right to choose.

The idea of this campaign has been in our hearts for a long time. We want to take it from a very different approach and we are not prepared to look down on men or cast blame on the male gender.

As Christians we uphold Biblical teachings and we believe in the institution of marriage and family as much as we believe in the responsibility of men to lead their households.

The most difficult part is to realise how much each one of us has been passive about abuse, treating it as a natural course of life: it happened to my mom, to my sister, to my neighbour, it surely has to happen to me.

I grew up seeing my father bashing my mom and us, now my husband is doing the same to me.

Women live, day in and day out, with a resigned attitude to abuse, not taking a stand to protect themselves and their children.

The worst pain, though, is when children are betrayed by those who were supposed to protect them. Those who just keep quiet when abuse takes place, pretending it did not happen.

And we play the blame game:

It is your fault! Why were you walking alone on that street? Look at your clothes … But what blame can be put on a child who was inside her house and someone known to the family or a close friend takes advantage and sexually violates her fragile body?

We cannot carry on hoping that it will never happen to us or to any of our dear ones. Hope is not enough.

Men of character, you can play such an important role to bring about a change of behaviour. You must be role models to your children, neighbours and community members.

We have to deal with the consequences of abuse. And WiA’s main purpose is to offer support to those who were or are victims of abuse. Thoughts, feelings and images are constantly taunting you. The day it happened, your dreams were shattered; you feel so unclean, rejected, undignified and even forgotten by God; your self-esteem is so low you have been dragging yourself through your life since then.

You do not need to live like that – you are a woman of value, of courage and you need to awaken the strength you have inside you to overcome the ghosts of the past.

Marcia Pires

Our Goal

2010-08-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

The idea of addressing the matter of abuse against women and children has been on our minds for some time. We just needed to find an appropriate time to bring it up.

As pastors’ wives, some have confronted abuse at a personal level, others face it every time they offer emotional and spiritual support to women who suffer from it.

It’s been said “Bruises fade, but the pain lasts forever.”

In the next four months, we will do our best to cover several facets of the theme in accordance with Biblical teachings.

We will encourage women not to accept domestic violence or abuse as the natural course of life. We will help victims to deal with low self-esteem, insecurities and complexes.

Men play a very important role in helping us to achieve results with this campaign. By equipping them to be a voice in their community and to set an example to the young generation, feedback will be far more noticeable.

Children need our love and protection. Working with them in schools or day care centres and Sunday Schools, we have the opportunity to identify a change of behaviour or reaction. We can offer support to the child and to the mother if abuse is somehow associated with this change.

Another point to mention is prevention of HIV in cases of sexual abuse, making available basic counselling and referrals to HIV Clinics. These will administer the PSP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) to prevent the victim being infected with the virus.

Empathy for victims of abuse is absolutely necessary and being available for counselling and emotional support is a key point in the success of our endeavour.

The subject is vast but we cannot rely on talk alone. We need to take the matter further to our families, neighbourhood and communities. We need tovoice our complaints according to Christian principles. Condemning males is not the solution.

If we can make an impact on a group such as our audience in Soweto on 9th August, and this group can spread the message further afield to others, we will surely notice a change.

We cannot do much alone but this does not give us the right to cross our arms and be passive about what goes on around us.

WiA recruits you to take part in this fight.

Save a Tamar

2010-08-01T03:42:00.001-07:00

In an interview with WiA founder, Universal News asked about the significance of the new project "Save a Tamar".

The Bible records in 2 Samuel 13:1-21, that Tamar was one of David's daughters who was abused by her own brother, Amnon. There are many Tamars in South Africa today - women who are physically, sexually and emotionally abused.

UN: What is your vision as WiA?

MP: To interact with our community and to empathise with their needs and daily struggles. We want to five back to the communities where our husbands work.

UN: What is the motive behind the "Save a Tamar campaign"?

MP: To focus on the subject in such a way that each one of us feels the responsibility to reach out to anyone, anywhere who has been directly or indirectly affected by abuse from any source.

UN: How do you plan on finding the Tamars of today?

MP: We will raise awareness of abuse at different levels and call upon women to stand up and not accept it as a natural course of life. We will motivate males to be role models for youngsters in their neighbourhood, and spread awareness of PSP to prevent HIV after rape cases.

UN: How have the women from WiA prepared themselves in work with the Tamars of today?

MP: This goes back to our daily experience in the church of counselling and praying. Only spiritual strength can really free a victim of the ghosts of the past.

UN: The project will run for four months. What will happen to the Tamars when the project comes to an end?

MP: We hope to achieve a greater level of awareness and prevention and to deliver the message that any Tamar may count on our support to claim her life back.

Join the Women in Action at the Cathedral of Faith in Soweto on Women's Day - Monday, 9th August 2010 at 10am

Endorsement to our WiA campaign

2010-08-01T03:39:00.001-07:00

From the age of 8 to 12 I used to be sexually abused by my father and my uncle.At 13 by my mother's friend son,At 15 by my brother in law at gun point.also at 15 I was almost gang raped by 5 men who got into the house while I was out,but I managed to runaway.At 18 my ex boyfriend used beat me and tried to kill me twice.I had no one to talk,I was full of anger,full of hatred, I was hurting inside.I even left home and went to stay in another place and that's when I found the UNIVERSAL CHURCH.I was able to talk to someone for the 1st time.I thank God coz today I'm happy , I'm free from hatred and I was able to forgive them.
So I just wanted to thank God for this campaign because many people will get help.
KEEP IT UP WIA ,MAY GOD BLESS YOU.
Member from KZN

Abuse

2010-07-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been abused at some level? Do you know someone who has to deal with abuse? The more we talk about the subject, the more we feel the pain, the distress that women endure when confronted by unforeseeable circumstances.

The healing process starts with speaking out, looking for someone in whom you can confide to voice your pain.

You will be able to find the way out only after confronting this ghost that blurs your mind day and night, that is taking your life away, is shattering your dreams and stealing your future from you. This is the reason WiA is holding this campaign against abuse. More than that, it is to offer you support and understanding, to give you the opportunity to spew out all that is suffocating you. The ultimate purpose of this campaign is to show that WiA is here for you. Read the story below about a young woman who had to face abuse at the young age of 19 ...

True Story: Raped at the age of 19

I was raped at the age of 19. It was during my first year at university.

I remember being so confused after a tutor on campus raped me. I knew I needed help. I WANTED help, but I was just so confused.

I picked myself up and went to a local physician to get checked out, but he could not help me. I lost hope and did not even think of going to the police afterwards.

My next thought was to go home. I needed to be around familiar faces, people who loved me and cared about me. On my way home, I decided to go to the local police station.

At the police station I was yelled at. I did not know what to say. All I could think of was reporting this crime. They took my statement (in front of everyone) and told me to go to the hospital. By that time, I was tired, mentally and physically. I could not think of going anywhere but home. So I dragged myself to my family home.

My parents were home and when I broke the news to them, there was complete silence. One of my relatives implied that I was to blame for the ordeal. That just pushed me to the edge. I started having suicidal thoughts, thinking of ways to end my miserable, broken life.

But I thank God for intervening when He did. I decided to go to church and have never looked back. God healed my broken heart, restored my life and changed me into a woman willing to share her story with others. I never thought it possible, but today I can truly say that I have forgiven the man who raped me.

And as traumatic as the incident was, it was the one thing that led me to experience this new-found relationship with God.

Who is Tamar?

2010-07-19T09:14:00.001-07:00

WHO IS TAMAR?

Dear readers, you may be wondering since our last edition on Who is Tamar and why do we need to save her!

I am very pleased to introduce to you our new WiA campaign that will be launched in a Special Meeting in Soweto, on the 9^th of August, 2010.

We will be taking our stand against abuse to Women and Children in our Society and we will be looking into the matter not in a feminist but feminine perspective, within the context of the Holy Bible and within the purpose God has created as for.

Tamar, as the Bible records in 2 Samuel 13:1-21, was one of David’s daughter who was abused by her own brother, Amnon.

There are many Tamars' all around us being physically, sexually and emotionally abused. Families being devastated as a result of it, lives being shattered on account of abuse and dreams being consumed by regret and pain.

We will celebrate Women’s Day uplifting the banner of peace. We will bring up awareness and comfort to those who have been victims of this experience and we count on you to march this campaign on our side.

This is our Tamar, the symbol of our manifest. . Watch this space to learn more about it. From now on, make your decision and help us to Save a Tamar.

And If

2010-07-12T05:27:00.000-07:00

Imagine the reaction of your family if one day you wake up and inform them there will be no meals because you were deeply wondering that if you go to the kitchen to cook a meal, you may burn the food, or you may burn the pot, or you may burn yourself!

How about if you cook and your family does not like the meal prepared, and if your family would prefer a snack?

Only by writing or reading it, it seems so silly, isn’t it? But you know what, this is exactly how we rationalise in other aspects of our lives.

When there is a problem, and honestly, we do have problems nearly every day, we start dwelling on the “if’s” of that problem. We become very worried, but not actually with the problem in front of us but with the suggestions our mind brings up in relation to that problem:

“What if I lose my job? And if my husband is having an affair? And if my son is involved with bad friends? And if, and if, and if…

By experience, when you look back at the problems you faced recently, you will have to be honest and count how many if’s you have uttered and suffered anguish over something that never happened. But there you were, consumed with worry about things that did not happen at all. The problem is over now and as a bonus you got some wrinkles on your face, some pain in your body because of tension, a few grey hairs, missed some hours of sleep and then life went on.

“Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (Matt 6:27)

What to do then? Look at the problem with sober perspective; deal with what you actually have in your hands and with the means you have to solve that problem. Do not allow “if this and that” to rule your life.

Get to the point as it is in the present and not as it might be in the future. Your boss is not satisfied with the quality of your work. Deal with that without worrying with what will happen IF you loose your job because, right now, the problem is in the quality of your work. Concentrating on that you requires your attention and not if you will lose your job...

Your marriage is going through troubled waters. Do not worry what is going to happen if your husband has an affair, if he is going to leave you. Deal directly and clearly with the causes of your incompatibility.

Your health is not doing well. Do not consider thoughts, such as “what if I have an incurable disease or and if I am going to die?” Follow the doctor’s prescription and advice. If needed, change your lifestyle to improve your health.

Above all, exchange your worries with the assurance of faith. God is certain to put this assurance in your heart if you have the right perspective and approach towards your problems.

“For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37) and have you noticed there is no “if” in this statement?

Marcia Pires

Staff

2010-05-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

Moses’ staff is one of the symbols most known in the Bible representing authority and power. Reading recently Moses’ history again and again, I was enticed by something that has not called my attention before.

When God sent Moses back to Egypt, He empowered him to show to the Israelites and to Pharaoh that he was on God’s appointment. Wonders were performed through his shepherd staff. The account of this passage is in Exodus 4 and 7.

God gave him the instructions to throw his staff on the floor and it would turn to a cobra and Moses did it as test for himself and also to the Israelites and he did again before Pharaoh’s court however the magicians of that time were able to do the same and transform other sticks in cobras. We all know what have happened then: Moses cobra ate all the others and supremacy was proven in that moment.

Now, you are probably wondering where I am leading you to if we do not use staffs nowadays and in general cobras are not favourite appeal to females!

We are all engaged, somehow, into challenges and resolutions or subject to problems that appeared out of nowhere.

Therefore, we seek for God’s help and direction to each particular situation knowing that He will bring solution.

Our expectations are that because we have trusted God with our problems or challenges and we are seeking in Him for the solution, everything will run smoothly and results will be positive.

Sometimes it does not happen as we have planned and hoped for. Can you try to picture in your mind Moses’ face when the other cobras appeared?

Isn’t the same face we put on when we do not have a quick answer to our requests or the answer we so badly prayed for?

But that was not the end for Moses’ and surely it is not the end of the line for you. God used that event to show His power and supremacy.

In the same way God will use whatever seems to be amiss and astray in your life right now to show His power and to bring a direction, an answer, a solution to your cause.

What is lacking? For you and me to learn to trust in God and not to be downcast and defeated by barriers, which will be along the way.

We will always confront spiritual opposition and the best reaction is at your spiritual level: trust in God and continue down the path He has brought you to. He will not leave you alone but He is walking it down at your side. Can you feel it?

Who is my Elizabeth?

2010-05-23T03:16:00.000-07:00

When Mary, was given the biggest news of her life, she had no husband

to confide in. Her first instinct after her visit from the angel of

the Lord was to immediately go out and seek Godly counsel from her

cousin Elizabeth. Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord!

Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from

her. Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with

haste, to a city of Judah and entered the house of Zacharias and

Elizabeth. Luke 1:38-40

Mary didn't waste any time, she went with haste. The definition of the

word haste is: to move with speed, or in a hurry or a rush.

As a Christian woman, who is your Elizabeth? Who do you rush to in a

hurry? Who do you seek for your Godly counsel? If you don't have an

Elizabeth of your very own, ask God to put one in your life. I have

included below a few characteristics to look for in your Elizabeth.

Your Elizabeth should:

Have a steadfast walk with the Lord.
Give Godly counsel in truth and love.
Encourage you in your walk in faith.
Encourage you in your marriage, studies, career and relationships.
Be someone whom you desire to learn from.
Pray for you and encourage you when you are down and out with life stress.
Rejoice in your successes.
See your God-given gifts and encourage you to use them.

Your Elizabeth should not:

Gossip with others about things you have shared.
Disrespect your partner or family.
Remind you of past failures, or make fun of your shortcomings.
Pull you away from others.
Discourage you from serving the Lord.
Be in competition with you, or insecure in your achievements.
Your Elizabeth should not take the Glory of God for herself by saying I prayed for her that's why she is driving this car or that's why she has gotten that job.

Take a moment and stop to ask yourself, "Who is my Elizabeth?"

Reader’s Contribution

Irena Sendler - a mother to many

2010-05-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday is a very special day when we recognize all the efforts and love and care of many mothers who have poured, and still do, their life on behalf of their children. I also want to praise mothers to many who do not have children of their own but have adopted, cared and loved children who, today, if not by their efforts, would have no reason to celebrate Mothers’ day.

They are those carers who provide in orphanage, children’s clinic, grandmas or aunts raising their relatives. We pay tribute to these courageous women who did not deny a calling and sacrificed themselves for others.

This is the story of a brave woman – Irena Sendler, our hero on Mother’s Day! She passed away recently at the age of 98. During the Second World War, Irena got an authorization to work at the Warsaw Ghetto as a plumber. But her real intention was to save children from death in the gas cameras.

She would hide toddlers in her toolbox and kept bags for older children in the back of her truck with a dog that was trained to bark to the soldiers to cover up for any noise from the children.

While she managed to do this work, she has saved about 2,500 children until they found out and, as a punishment, broke her arms and legs holding her in severe imprisonment.

She kept records of the children, in a glass bottle embedded underneath of a tree in her garden. After the end of the war, she tried to find the families to those children but many were killed by the Nazis.

Therefore she made sure those orphans would go to a shelter or be adopted by foster parents.

She was appointed for the Noble Prize last year but not chosen however in the hearts of millions she is a mother to be remembered today.

Marcia Pires

Making time!

2010-04-13T07:47:00.000-07:00

This is a very curious expression. All of us are in a quest for time. We all have lots of responsibilities and tasks and challenges and commitments and plans and dreams for one single day and one common complaint: lack of time to grasp all we want, to reach for all we planned, to achieve all that was entrusted to us.

Is this the problem of our current age or struggling with time has been a common difficult to mortals throughout the centuries?

Either or, one fact is clear: I have not known one person who does not struggle with time or at least has not, in past, done so.

Talking to different women, from housewives to business entrepreneurs, I clearly noticed each individual struggles to cope with more responsibilities within a shorter time frame; to cope as a wife, mother, student, worker and as a woman all at once is beyond what someone physically can bear but the funny aspect of it is that some do, others don’t.

I am not going to discuss the why’s of that but somehow, no matter what you are doing, you do not have time for all that you need to! That is a fact!

And if there is something you need to sacrifice to cope with all your responsibilities, there will be two in the list that will be scrapped out quicker:

1) Time for yourself

2) Time for God

And do you know why? Because you do not need to sign the book either with yourself or with God.! Both are intimate relationships that do not demand legal, moral or emotional bounds.

You give to yourself if you want to and the same towards God. However, there is nothing more stressing or frustrating when you are able to accommodate everyone’s needs but yours. There is nothing more consuming than the need your inner self has to meet the Creator and to hold communion with Him.

So what to do ? Look back at the title – MAKE TIME. Every person who has been to a chaotic schedule and overcame it has this simple answer “I had to make time for what really mattered to me”.

Does your relationship with God matter to you? Make time for Him; early in the morning or in the mid of the day or maybe by the end of it. Once you search for His presence and direction, you will feel that you can handle more of your tasks. There is not explanation; it is one more of the mysteries of Christian Life

Try it!

HE IS RISEN

2010-04-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Once again we are about to celebrate the Pass Over and there is no greater Event in all Christian Calendar than to revere Easter Season.

However, I feel a common lack of celebration spirit in many women for this particular holiday. During Christmas there is a great deal of consideration to everything related to it: decoration, gifts, wish cards, supper, making amendments with others, reuniting friends, seeking for unity, forgiveness, commitment and, honestly speaking, there is nothing wrong about that.

All in all, we are just trying to show the importance of Jesus’ birth, the fulfilment of the prophecy in the Old Testament. But Christmas was the starting point for the great climax and fulfilment of the promise for our salvation.

If there is something that we have to rejoice, share and celebrate is the death and resurrection of Jesus because on account of His sacrifice we inherit a blessed life and eternity in heavens.

It may happen that right now you do not have much joy or excitement for celebrations because you are not enjoying of this blessed life, you are not having the fullest of Jesus’ sacrifice in you.

But still, I want to put a challenge before you, my friend, for this season. Live the days ahead with all your heart, mind and spirit. If you want to take possession of all the blessings conquered on the cross by Jesus and it is healing, deliverance, peace, love, joy and salvation, commit yourself fully for this great Good Friday.

It is all about your attitude; if you just accept the kind of life you are living in that is what you will have, but if you make out of these 03 weeks an opportunity to turn your life around you will celebrate Good Friday with Better Life.

Enjoy the moment. Prepare yourself with an excelling spirit, count the days, send greeting cards, talk about Jesus and His providence for salvation with your friends and family, do what you never did in past years and decide in your heart that this Easter Holiday will be memorable forever in your life.

Do what you can and go an extra mile to make out of this Holy Weekend a special date for you and see for yourself that “He will be risen in your spirit and in your life”.

Marcia Pires

THE OFFICIAL ACCOUNT

2010-03-22T03:22:00.000-07:00

It is with great honour that I can today share with all our members and visitors, who have been cheerfully supporting our WiA Awareness, official results released on our achievements in Alexandra Project.

It was rated by several NGO’s involved in the cause as total success and by far one of the great results ever achieved in similar projects:

Women Registered: 2370

Attendees to Breast Health Foundation stall: 1780

Sugar Levels tests: 1200

Blood Pressure checks: 984

Visitors to LifeLine stall: 914

Visitors to Hospice stall: 715

Visitors to WomanManAgainstChildAbuse: 708

Pap Smears collected: 650

BMI checked in one day: 300

HIV tests by ORUM: 176 (one day campaign)

Visitors to CHOC stall: 89

On behalf of all WiA members we once again extend our thankfulness to all health providers, volunteers who participated of this project and above all our members and visitors who were massively present to the occasion.

We also would like to make a friendly reminder to all women who were somehow referred to further medical assistance to pursue health improvement.

To all those women who were advised to visit Helen Joseph Hospital for mammograms, please, do not neglect this call and kindly get in touch with one of our WiA members in your church so that we can put you in contact with the BHF for assistance.

Above all, whatever was the result of your health check-up, whatever you learned during our event, remember, WiA members main role is to support you emotionally and spiritually throughout the journey. Count on us!

Marcia Pires

TO ALL CUTE WOMEN I KNOW!

2010-03-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

Let me remind you that you are worthy as a woman, a friend, a wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a co-worker and a child of God!

International Women's Day

2010-03-06T12:25:00.000-08:00

International Women's Day has been observed since in the early

1911 Following the decision agreed at Copenhagen in 1911, International Women's Day (IWD) was honoured the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland on 19 March. More than one million women and men attended IWD rallies campaigning for women's rights to work, vote, be trained, to hold public office and end discrimination. However less than a week later on 25 March, the tragic 'Triangle Fire' in New York City took the lives of more than 140 working women, most of them Italian and Jewish immigrants. This disastrous event drew significant attention to working conditions and labour legislation in the United States that became a focus of subsequent International Women's Day events. 1911 also saw women's 'Bread and Roses' campaign. 

1913-1914 On the eve of World War I campaigning for peace, Russian women observed their first International Women's Day on the last Sunday in February 1913. In 1913 following discussions, International Women's Day was transferred to 8 March and this day has remained the global date for International Wommen's Day ever since. In 1914 further women across Europe held rallies to campaign against the war and to express women's solidarity.

1917 On the last Sunday of February, Russian women began a strike for "bread and peace" in response to the death over 2 million Russian soldiers in war. Opposed by political leaders the women continued to strike until four days later the Czar was forced to abdicate and the provisional Government granted women the right to vote. The date the women's strike commenced was Sunday 23 February on the Julian calendar then in use in Russia. This day on the Gregorian calendar in use elsewhere was 8 March.

1918 - 1999 Since its birth in the socialist movement, International Women's Day has grown to become a global day of recognition and celebration across developed and developing countries alike. For decades, IWD has grown from strength to strength annually. For many years the United Nations has held an annual IWD conference to coordinate international efforts for women's rights and participation in social, political and economic processes.

With more women in the boardroom, greater equality in legislative rights, and an increased critical mass of women's visibility as impressive role models in every aspect of life, one could think that women have gained true equality. The unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women's education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men.

However, great improvements have been made. We do have female astronauts and prime ministers, school girls are welcomed into university, women can work and have a family, women have real choices. And so the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives.

Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements.

In this opportunity, WiA congratulates and celebrates every woman in South Africa and throughout the world.