Nomzamo township in Strand, Cape Town, South Africa, is home to the Young Women for Life Movement—a community-based initiative that supports young women and girls facing poverty, violence, and social stigma. The movement’s mission is to empower its members through leadership development, skills training, financial literacy, and peer support, helping them break the cycle of poverty and build healthier, safer futures.
Since its founding in 2019 as a small network of 80 participants meeting in backyards, the movement has grown rapidly. Today, with the support of UN Women and other partners, it reaches over 8,000 young women and girls in South Africa, with activities also underway in Botswana and Eswatini.
The movement provides comprehensive training and workshops that build skills in entrepreneurship, financial management, and personal development. Members also gain access to vital health information and psychosocial support, including addressing challenges related to gender-based violence and HIV—issues that disproportionately affect young women in the region.
Phindile Maseko, the Cape Town coordinator of the Young Women for Life Movement, explains, “Many of our members live with HIV or have faced trauma and rejection. When we first meet them, some have lost hope and stopped taking their medication. Our work focuses on restoring their confidence and resilience, while equipping them with skills to build sustainable livelihoods.”
Members range in age from teenagers to women in their early thirties, and all benefit from the program’s safe and supportive community, which fosters peer encouragement and shared learning.
Thandolwami Zwelinjani (who prefers to be called Thando) joined the movement just last year. Beforeward, she struggled with depression after dropping out of school when her family rejected her due to her sexual orientation. Through the program’s leadership and skills training, she rediscovered her confidence and talents. Today, Thando is a trained chef, an accomplished beadworker, and a confident singer who uses her voice to inspire others. She says, “Young Women for Life gave me the power to believe in myself and showed me that my passion for singing can help others who feel lost.”
Gugulethu Mdoba grew up in poverty and became a mother at 18. Raising her child alone after the father disappeared, she initially struggled to support them financially. After joining the Young Women for Life Movement and receiving business training, her bakery flourished. She now delivers baked goods to local shops and salons and mentors other young women in baking.She says, “My business has grown so much. I’m motivated by my child to keep improving and helping others.”
Both women credit the movement for the skills, support, and hope it has given them to overcome rejection, financial hardship, and health challenges.
UN Women HIV/AIDS Specialist Jacqueline Utamuriza-Nsizabira highlights the group’s importance. SHe says, “The Young Women for Life Movement offers a powerful example of resilience. By combining peer support, practical training, and advocacy, it tackles gender-based violence and HIV, influencing policies and changing lives.”
Ms. Gugu’s message to girls facing similar struggles is clear: “It’s not the end. You have the power to change your life.”
Photo: Thando, 32, performing popular songs. Photo: UN Women/Tabitha Icuga
This story is adapted from an article published by UN Women called “You have the power to change’ – Young women in South Africa break through stigma and poverty and inspire others” To read the full story, go to: https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/feature-story/2024/06/you-have-the-power-to-change [1]