The power of showing up
There is something deeply powerful about a group of women gathering, not just to talk, but to walk, reflect, laugh, dream, and heal together. That’s exactly what has unfolded over the past few months in Paarl at the Mountain Ridge Estate, where 20 women joined a journey of growth and possibility through the women’s empowerment programme supported by the Val de Vie Foundation.
It all began with a plan for 15 participants. But when 20 women arrived early, eager and ready, we knew something special was happening. That moment was more than attendance, it was 20 women saying yes to themselves. And how often do we, as women, really do that? Say yes without guilt. Say yes without hesitation. That day, they did. And what has happened since has been nothing short of magical.
Dreaming out loud: The vision board session
Our first session kicked off with a vision board exercise, giving each woman the opportunity to map out her own journey and envision how it might unfold. It was a powerful moment of dreaming out loud. These vision boards now serve as daily reminders of what we’re working toward.
Twenty women arrived at the first session, ready and geared up to change their lives. We didn’t know exactly what to expect or what would unfold, but there was a quiet excitement in the air. The possibilities felt endless.
The women getting ready to dive into their vision board session.
Finding freedom on the trail
One of our most memorable moments was a guided hike with Ubuntu Hiking in Stellenbosch. For many of the women, it was their first time exploring nature in this way, and the sense of wonder was almost tangible. We walked, we talked, we laughed, and we breathed. Surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and fresh air, something in us all shifted.
What made this experience even more special was when one of the women stepped forward to lead for a few moments. She shared her knowledge about the plants we encountered, offering a spontaneous info session right there on the trail—teaching us about their uses and benefits. It was a reminder that each woman brings something valuable to the table. And when given the chance, they shine.
We all carry something powerful within us, shaped by our lives, our journeys, and our stories. When given a platform and a safe space to share, we do. And when we do, that’s when the magic happens.
The women enjoying a peaceful hike in Stellenbosch. It was a refreshing morning filled with connection and quiet. The kind of quiet that speaks louder than words. A welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a moment to just breathe.
Reflecting and reconnecting
In October, we invited all the women to spend the day with us in Stellenbosch. We started with a personal mapping session, an honest reflection of where each woman found herself in terms of health, education, and her own dreams. Introspection is never easy, but this group was incredibly brave. It was beautiful to witness. We ended the day with a slow walk through Stellenbosch and a delicious lunch at the CoCreate Hub, lovingly prepared by the talented local food vendors who trade from there.
The ladies enjoy a lovely lunch at the Cocreate Hub, after an engaging session and walk through Stellenbosch.
Taking steps towards independence
In November, we took practical steps toward independence. Professional ID photos were taken by a local entrepreneur. It might sound simple, but for many, this was the key to unlocking opportunities, like applying for driver’s licenses or jobs.
Entrepreneurship and financial empowerment
In December, the energy shifted again, this time toward entrepreneurship. The session, led by the inspiring women from Nedbank, explored small business ideas, savings strategies, and money mindsets. One woman shared how she had saved R10,000 using tips from a previous Nedbank workshop. That’s what this programme is about: planting seeds and watching them grow.
The women attentively listening as the Nedbank team shared insights on running a side hustle. A session filled with practical tips, inspiration, and the spark to dream bigger.
A clearer vision for the future
One of the most heartwarming highlights came in May, during a wellness check-in where we facilitated eye tests for all the women. To our surprise, nine participants were found to need glasses, something many of them had never had access to before. What made this moment even more meaningful was the generosity of the Val de Vie Foundation, who stepped in without hesitation to sponsor both the eye tests and the glasses.
Choosing themselves, choosing growth
These women didn’t just join a programme. They made a decision, a decision that so many women struggle to make. They chose themselves. They chose to show up for their healing, their growth, and their futures. They chose growth over fear, hope over hesitation, and community over isolation.
What started as a small gathering quickly became something more: a safe space where stories were shared and dreams were spoken out loud. A space where women could lay down the weight they’ve carried for years and pick up something new – courage, clarity and the belief that change is possible.
Each session, each step, each moment of vulnerability has added to a quiet but powerful movement. A movement of women walking boldly toward possibility.
Thriving women change everything
Because when women are seen, supported, and celebrated, something incredible happens. They don’t just survive. They thrive. They begin to speak with authority, dream with intention, and act with purpose.
And thriving women? They change everything.
This is only the beginning.
The rise of thriving women is here.
And we are ready.