Women’s Month launches with a powerful line-up of events on Sunday, 6 August, at the Made in Chatsworth Market situated at Depot Road Memorial Primary School.
The organisers promise a day filled with inspiration, recognition and a medical camp as it brings together leaders, achievers and change-makers in a celebration of women’s achievements.
Local community activist and cancer awareness educator, Sister Paddy Chettiar, urged the community to have free blood sugar and blood pressure screening. “We must not leave our health to chance, especially the risk of all types of cancers among young and older people, men, women and children,” she said.
Sister Chettiar has mobilised a number of health professionals and labs to be part of the Sunday programme that begins at 09h00.
Other highlights include an enthralling awards ceremony honouring outstanding women in various fields, from art and culture to business and education.
Partners in this venture include the Magazine Barracks Remembrance Association (MBRA); GOPIO; the 1860 Heritage Centre and the Durban International Book Fair (#DIBF2023).
“The awards recognise women who have defied paternalism, shattered glass ceilings and made a powerful impact in our community,” said Les Moonsamy, president of the MBRA.
“By highlighting these remarkable women and their stories, Made in Chatsworth Market aims to be a community hub to inspire the younger generation and pave the way for a more inclusive and gender-equal society,” said Kiru Naidoo, author and market organiser.
“This celebration not only recognises the remarkable achievements of women but also provides a platform for learning, sharing and growth. We hope this event will encourage women to pursue their dreams, empower each other and create lasting change within our communities,” said DBIF2023 director, Anivesh Singh, who has organised a number of women authors to read extracts from their books which will be showcased at the Durban International Book Fair at The Globe, Suncoast from 9 to 13 August. That event is also free and open to all.
Selvan Naidoo, curator of the 1860 Heritage Centre, will put on an exhibition of women in the struggle, showing how all communities – including Chatsworth – were at the forefront of fighting for freedom and democracy.
Sunday’s event at the school on 369 Lenny Naidu Drive runs from 09h00 until 15h00, with smaller events every week until the end of Women’s Month. The organisers can be contacted on 082-940-8163.
