On a gorgeous afternoon in the city, on the last day of Women’s Month, a gathering of women took place in one of Cape Town’s most luxurious boutique sanctuaries. The topic of the day was as simple as it was necessary; how to give vulnerable women and girls a fair shot at life by equipping them with tools for school, work and life.
Founded by former Miss South Africa, presenter and business woman Cindy Nell-Roberts, Women4Women is a non-profit organisation focused on exactly that – women helping other women.
Cindy, also a co-owner of Women4Women’s main sponsor, Cosmetix, says the initiative is an answer to what she believes is her calling. “I’ve always been passionate about charity. I’ve always felt a strong desire to make a difference in people’s lives. I’m already as famous as I’m ever going to be, I’ve lived all of my dreams now I feel it’s my turn to use my success and my contacts to benefit other people.”
The event was held at the luxurious Mannabay, a boutique oasis situated at the foot of Table Mountain, which generously opened its exclusive doors for the intimate gathering. Guests were treated to sumptuous cuisine in line with the high standards established by the hotel, which is lauded for its top tier high tea, among other offerings.
Sparkling wine was served along with delicate confections, sweet and savoury pastries, feather-light cakes and fresh fruit as guests were regaled with inspiring tales of Women4Women’s reach and impact.
Two of the organisation’s bursary beneficiaries sent in heart-warming videos, which conveyed to all in attendance the profound effect of financial assistance on the outcomes of vulnerable students who are striving and succeeding despite odds.
To end the day’s festivities, guests had the opportunity to sample Cosmetix products to truly appreciate the importance of self-care. As part of Women4Women’s activities, young women are taught grooming and makeup techniques to help them with the confidence needed to navigate key occasions such as job interviews.
A registered NPO, Women4Women is geared towards the empowerment of previously disadvantaged women and the upliftment of less fortunate communities. The goal is to help women to become capable contributors in society by empowering them with key skills and motivation. So far, the organisation has:
- Hosted makeup and grooming workshops for teenage girls affected by abuse.
- Helped female entrepreneurs develop and improve their businesses.
- Provided employment for abuse survivors in the Cosmetix warehouse and factory.
- Secured various development courses and employment opportunities for women as well as various mentorship programs.
Women4Women welcomes nominees for deserving recipients of study scholarships, courses or skills development to be funded through the foundation. Details can be found on www.women4women.co.za