She Fest, in collaboration with Sizoya Sibuye and Constitution Hill, kicked off Women’s Month celebrations with the inaugural Women’s Month Honoree Gala dinner, spotlighting women from different industries.
The ceremony celebrated 30 distinguished women, among them singer Lerato “Lira” Molapo, Dr Esther Mahlangu, Justice Zukisa Tshiqi, Candice Chirwa, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Humile Mashatile.
Taking to Instagram, Lira expressed her joy: “Constitution Hill hosted a women’s month event — I received an honorary award with 30 other women on 1 August 2024. It was during the launch of the exhibit focussing on women in the arts, politics, fashion, and all kinds of industries. I was so happy with this honour. Thank you to @yvonne_chakachaka for giving us her homeware gifts.”
Lira’s journey has been on an upward trajectory, and in the past few months she has shown resilience as she took on different stages, reminding people why she has always been among the greatest vocalists and a fan favourite in SA.
Other events to celebrate Women’s Month month, include skills-building seminars, a movie screening, and a free entry She Fest on August 9 at The Women’s Jail, at Constitution Hill.
Reuben Phasha, heritage: education and public programs manager at Constitution Hill, said: “Constitution Hill’s goals for the event collaboration include celebrating achievements, reflecting on progress in women’s rights since 1994, inspiring young women, and fostering networking opportunities among diverse attendees.”
A glass memorial at the women's prison on Constitution Hill honours the memories of the women who were imprisoned there during the apartheid era, and who were instrumental in the freedom of their nation.
Noluthando Rotwane (DJ Teedo Love), She Fest founder, shared: “She Fest is a nexus for empowerment, embracing diversity and inclusivity. It serves as a platform for information, job creation, and addressing crucial issues affecting women in the film and music industry.”
The event will also feature a diverse array of activities, including a gala awards dinner, visual arts exhibitions, film screenings, creative industry workshops, and intergenerational dialogues, to honour the progress made in gender equality, recognise influential women leaders, share valuable knowledge through the creative industry talks, and inspiring future generations.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za