Adventure into Womanhood 2025: a day of inspiration and empowerment
Soroptimist International Durban
Members of Soroptimist International Durban with pupils.
Image: Supplied
IN A POWERFUL celebration of womanhood and community spirit, Soroptimist International Durban (SI Durban) hosted its annual Adventure into Womanhood 2025 event at Durban Girls’ High School.
Welcoming 150 Grade 11 pupils from 10 disadvantaged schools, the recent full-day programme aimed to inspire a new generation of young women to lead with purpose, resilience, and compassion.
This year, the event commemorated Nelson Mandela Day.
Each participant was gifted a blanket - not for themselves but to present to someone they saw as deserving. This gesture encapsulated the essence of SI’s values of generosity and community, encouraging learners to envision themselves as agents of change within their circles.
The event featured a diverse line-up of speakers, each sharing personal stories and practical wisdom that resonated deeply with the young audience:
- Trisha Gookol urged the learners never to give up on their dreams, drawing from her own journey of perseverance.
- Linda Zama delivered a talk on navigating life’s challenges with integrity.
- Marj Lawrence emphasised that the power to shape one’s future lies within, advocating for the importance of a positive mindset.
Adding to the wellness dimension, yoga instructor Julie Moodley introduced the pupils to a fun and accessible approach to exercise with her guided yoga session. This segment focused on mindfulness, movement, and self-care, helping the pupils reconnect with their bodies and embrace a holistic approach to well-being. There was also laughter exercise led by Heinrich Visser.
Beyond these activities, learners engaged in creative storytelling exercises and peer-led discussions.
“Womanhood 2025 is more than an event, it’s a movement,” said Avasha Singh, President of SI Durban.
“We’re creating space for young women to be seen, heard, and uplifted. These pupils are not just our future; they are our present.”
SI Durban continues its commitment to nurturing bold voices, paving the way for an empowered future where every girl recognises her worth and walks through life with pride.