The first annual 'Becoming' event launched to support young girls

The first annual “Becoming” event was hosted by Ms. Munei Tsanwani, a clinical data analyst and Miss World South Africa 2023 Top 12 finalist, under the Alfred Kutama Foundation. It took place at the MGB Hotel in Sibasa on Saturday, 27 January.

The event was attended by many women from different walks of life, including the guests of honour: Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Tsakani Nkondo; Mrs Tsakani Masia, owner of Nakiseni Business Enterprise; Dr Jane Mufamadi, CEO of Freedom Park South Africa; Mrs Mokgati Loisa Mukwevho, owner of Real Paints; Prof. Netshandama, Director of Community Engagement at Univen; Ms Belle Ramunenyiwa, Founder of Miss Congeniality; Dr Livhalani Sinyosi from the Department of Education; learners from various schools; and students from Univen.

The panel discussion consisted of women from different career fields, including Nene Thidiela, Motheo Mokoto, Mphoentle Plaatjie, Felicity Tshikwatamba, Dr Tshidzi Netshishivhe, and Bontle Motsoedi.

Tsanwani said the main aim of the event was to boost self-esteem and equip young girls with strategies to overcome challenges unique to their backgrounds. “When we speak of ‘becoming’, we speak of a process that transcends the boundaries of time and space. It is the motion of self-discovery, a journey of uncovering the depths of our potential as women, whether we are young or old. ‘Becoming’ is not a static state; it is the realisation that every step we take, and every experience we embrace, contributes to the mosaic of our identity.”

She added that the event successfully created a supportive network for young girls by focusing on those from disadvantaged backgrounds. “‘Becoming’ strives to bridge the opportunity gap and inspire these young individuals to aspire and achieve their dreams. In collaboration with the Skills for the Future Programme at the University of Venda, the event showcases a commitment to partnerships that amplifies the impact of such initiatives,” she said.

Date:10 February 2024

By: Maanda Bele

Maanda  Bele, born and raised in Nzhelele Siloam, studied journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology.

He is passionate about current news and international affairs.

He worked as part of the Zoutnet team as an intern in 2017.

He is currently a freelance journalist specialising in news from the Vhembe district.

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