Al-Qalam 
By Iman Mahomed
The Bayview Ubuntu Community Centre came alive on Saturday, August 16, as 145 women from across KwaZulu-Natal gathered for a day of empowerment, learning, and celebration. The Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa’s (MYM) Gender Desk hosted its annual Women’s Empowerment Programme, this year themed “Empowering Women, Enriching Community.”
The event was a vibrant showcase of women’s strength, resilience, and unity, bringing together participants of all ages and backgrounds for an unforgettable day.
From the moment participants arrived, the atmosphere was described as “electric.”
Poetry recitals, Zumba sessions, self-defence classes, and even laughter therapy set the tone for a day filled with both joy and purpose. Lucky draws kept the energy high, while networking opportunities allowed women to share experiences and build connections.
One of the programme’s organisers, Arun Naicker, said the diversity on display was one of the most powerful aspects of the day.
“It was truly one of the most vibrant and electric events I have ever done. It was in the heart of the community, and it was multicultural. You had Muslim women embracing different cultures and entertainment in a variety of languages. We live in societies that are so closed, so it was remarkable to see people come together like that, and that was one of the highlights for me,” said Naicker.
Women travelled from far and wide to be part of the event, wearing their best clothes, and spent the day listening to one another, offering advice, and empowering each other.
Programme Director Aisha Metedad Ally, who served as MC for the day, described the event as both empowering and inspiring.
“The event was amazing, it all went well, Alhamdulilah. The highlight for me was the fact that I got to MC the event, and I also loved the fact that it was so diverse. We had women from different areas, backgrounds, and cultures. We had Zulu and Chichewa performances. I would like to see more events like this taking place. It empowers our ladies a lot,” she said.
Ally noted that the mix of age groups was particularly encouraging.
“Most MYM events are for people from low socioeconomic areas, and it’s an excellent way to uplift people. I also tried to bring in a lot of young ladies to attend. The youth are our future, so it was lovely to see the mix of different age groups,” said Ally.
While the day carried a celebratory tone, serious issues were also at the heart of the programme. In partnership with Lifeline South Africa, the South African Police Service, and the Department of Justice, the MYMSA provided crucial resources and information on gender-based violence (GBV).
Representatives from Lifeline spoke about recognising abuse, how to access support services, and the importance of introducing interventions at the community level.
The Department of Justice also offered free consultations to participants, providing advice on legal options available to victims of GBV.
The Bayview Clinic extended its services to attendees, offering free pressure and diabetes testing, pap smears, and breast examinations. By providing these screenings on site, organisers ensured that health was an integral part of empowerment. The highlight of the day was also the participation of MYM’s Ambassadors for Change members, a youth leadership initiative. The group presented thought-provoking role-plays, poetry, and speeches challenging stereotypes and inspiring women to rise above societal limitations.
The message echoed throughout the event: empowerment is not just an individual pursuit, but a collective responsibility. Whether through cultural expression, physical wellness, legal knowledge, or spiritual growth, Naicker said the programme underscored the importance of standing together against challenges facing women today.
She said by the end of the day, the Bayview Ubuntu Community Centre had become a symbol of solidarity and empowerment.
“The event marked one of MYM’s most successful Women’s Month initiatives to date, and the team for the day was exceptional. This was about creating safe spaces where women can learn, share, and feel valued. The energy, the diversity, the unity – it all came together beautifully,” said Naicker.
As participants left, many of them carried renewed determination to make a difference in their communities. Attendees said the Women’s Empowerment Programme reinforced the Muslim Youth Movement’s commitment to advancing women’s rights and tackling pressing social challenges.
