In celebration of 30 years of Women’s Month, PRISMA’s Kathu branch is leading an important initiative to empower young women in the Northern Cape with safety skills, career guidance and personal development opportunities.
A focus on safety and self-defence
The project was inspired by the alarming reality that approximately 15 women and three children are murdered daily in South Africa. “Our initiative aims to equip young women – especially those heading off to university and often travelling alone – with essential self-defence skills and practical knowledge to stay safe,” explains Yvonne Roos, Branch Manager at PRISMA Kathu.
During the programme, participants will also learn how to disarm potential attackers and perform basic vehicle maintenance such as changing a tyre and checking oil and water levels.
Broadening career horizons
The initiative also includes career talks intended to inspire and broaden the horizons of young women from local high schools. PRISMA’s Carol Brandt will speak about the wide range of career options available to women both within mining and in other industries. “We want young women to realise that their potential is not defined by traditional roles or limitations,” says Roos. “They can pursue any path they are passionate about, whether inside the mining sector or beyond. It’s about empowering them to believe in themselves and to explore all the opportunities that are out there.”
The programme encourages participants to identify their strengths and interests, helping them to see that their futures are open and full of possibility. This year’s project will launch at Langberg High School, with plans to grow and reach more communities in the coming years. Roos hopes to expand similar programmes across all PRISMA branches, establishing an ongoing platform that supports women’s empowerment throughout South Africa.
Community collaboration and future plans
PRISMA is funding the initiative and collaborating with local partners such as Point S, which will teach tyre-changing skills and roadside safety.
Alongside the school programme, PRISMA will host a ‘Careers of the Past’ high tea at the Olifantshoek senior living facility. This event will bring together older women to share their life lessons, experiences, and advice with younger generations, allowing participants to learn from the past and gain valuable insights into how career paths and opportunities have evolved over time.
“Women’s Month is about more than celebration. It is about creating real change. Through this project, we want to equip young women with the tools to be safe, confident and empowered to shape their own paths,” she concludes.
