​As we wrapped up Women’s Month, the Gauteng Department of Social Development hosted an awareness campaign on Gender-Based Violence in Westbury. 
The awareness which was attended by women from the area and those who had sought shelter at Non-Profit Organizations funded by the department aimed to empower women and to raise awareness of the negative impact that Gender-based violence has on women and children within the community.

Attendees were showered with goodie bags by Palesa Pads and pampered by the Beauty Hub students. Pampering included having their hair and nails done, massages and gifts with beauty products. 

“Women plant the seed, and their children harvest the results. And with that said I am enjoying my life because of the many sacrifices my mother had to make for me to have a better upbringing,” said Managing Director of Mashup NPO, Regi Botha. 

A community leader, Pastor Babi Doreen, noted that abuse is not only faced by women but by men too. Men are afraid to speak out because they will be judged. She further explained different types of abuse that people face daily and made mention of how hurtful these abuses are. 

Mrs South Africa finalist Tasmin Luciana Young Norris shared her testimony and explained how abuse affects confidence. Through her abusive relationship experiences, she learned that she didn’t have to seek validation from any man. 

“Each one of us is a Queen, and we should be treated like one. No matter the circumstances. We should value ourselves and stand tall. I am living proof that your situations don’t break you, but they make you. You need to rebuild yourself and own you’re throne. I am Mrs South Africa finalist 2022 today because I am a strong woman and I learned to value and validate myself” said Tasmin.