WeeklySA_AdminSUPPORTIVE: To give meaning to the theme, women gather to share poignant experiences of their varied lives amid the relaxed and genial ambience of the game…
By Priscilla Malinga
It was tennis, tears, laughter and dialogues at the third Dialogues Amongst Women event held at the Tennis Court in Randburg this past Sunday, as women across all walks of life met for the first time to tell their stories and encourage each other.
CEO of Black Ruby Organisation, Lihle Malinga started the movement as she felt that women needed share their fears, experiences and expectations in a safe and non-threatening and supportive environment.
Malinga feels that a lot needs to be done for women to feel safe in their homes and workplace and just everywhere. “We are faced with issues as woman such as gender-based violence, amongst others,” says Malinga. The dialogues are a platform for women who might be in abusive relationships to talk to other women so they can offer assistance where needed.
“It was intentional for us to add tennis to the day as it worked to let women engage with each other through tennis lessons.
Tennis coach Natalie van Wyk lesson acted as the ice-breaker to the event before round-table discussions started.
Speakers included Noziswe Vundla, business woman who transitioned from an executive position at Sanlam and Hlomelang Morake who was married to an abusive pastor and raised twins without his support.
A poignant moment came when author Thabi Masilo who recalled life as a prostitute and drug addict. Contained in her memoir, I bought my own ring , it starts with how she bought her won weeding ring so that she could marry the man of her dreams. She relates how she survived this grim existence and started her life anew.
Malinga spoke about her struggles with being raised by a single parent and the challenges she faced as a woman at a work place. “I really needed to vent and speak about my experiences and it is not easy to speak to people who are close because of fear of being judged,” said Morake who spoke about the abuse she endured from her husband who left her with twins that he is failing to maintain.
The conversations were intense and emotional, but the underlying message was one of solidarity and hope. Malinga stressed that initiatives like Dialogues Amongst Women deserve stronger corporate backing so they can take place more frequently.
This year’s event was supported by Different Technology, which provided refreshments and food, and Zardetto, which kept spirits high with champagne.
“This is more than just an event—it’s a movement, an experience,” Malinga said. “It’s a space to pause, connect, and be heard.”
