What is Women’s Month?

Women’s month is commemorated in South Africa this August as a tribute to over 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on the 9th of August 1956 in protest against the amendments of the country’s pass laws that required South Africans defined as “black” to carry an internal passport, known as a pass or “dompas”. Our Government in South Africa declared August women’s month and the 9th of August is celebrated annually as Women’s Day.

We should also take this opportunity to celebrate and reflect on women’s achievements, as well as the issues they have faced in the struggle to be free and the important role they have always had in society. Statistics show that women are making great progress in business, politics, academic and economic careers with more and more women reaching top positions. This excludes their important roles as mothers, wives, and caregivers that so many of us have come to cherish!

South African women should be proud of what they have achieved. Let the achievements of those who came before you inspire and motivate you to unlock your inner strength and help you make a difference in your country, community, and family.

My philosophy in life is “this too shall pass”, moving onto the next chapter without anything holding me back. I challenge you this August month, to put yourself, your well-being, your business and your priorities first. Let this be the leap into change, let this be the month you celebrate yourself and let this be the month you allow yourself greatness and growth!

“Go out and celebrate the women that you are. Go out and make a difference this Women’s Month!”

-Samona Murugan

Let’s empower one another to reach the heights we were always destined for… ♀