Throughout the history of GCF, we have witnessed the strength and resilience of women time and time again. This is not only among our own staff, who work tirelessly to create a better world for vulnerable children and families, but also our foster mothers, temporary safe care moms, and the mothers in the villages where we are active. Not to forget all the colleagues in our broad network.

Today, on South African National Women’s Day, we invite you to celebrate these remarkable women with us. Think of the unconditional love and nurturing they provide, creating security, confidence, and well-being for children. Consider the sacrifices they make while balancing multiple roles and the profound influence they have on children’s development, education, and life choices. These women are role models, navigating challenges, empowering other mothers and women, and making an impact that extends far beyond their own families.

On this day, August 9, in 1956, more than 20,000 South African women from diverse cultural backgrounds marched in unity to campaign against the pass laws that restricted the black population from entering areas designated for white people without a special identification document. They delivered a petition with 100,000 signatures and stood in silent protest for 30 minutes in front of the Union Building in Pretoria before singing the powerful protest song, “Wathint’Abafazi Wathint’imbokodo!” (Now you have touched the women, you have struck a rock).

Whether it’s the brave women who marched for justice in 1956 or the women in GCF’s network today, they continue to draw attention to significant issues in their present reality. While every day should honour the contributions of women, this day serves as a reminder to address the ongoing challenges they face. These include parenting responsibilities, domestic violence, sexual harassment in the workplace, unequal salaries, limited access to education and health care services, social and cultural restrictions, and poverty to mention some.

Let us take this as an opportunity to acknowledge and support the incredible women who shape lives, offer unwavering support, and consistently demonstrate their strength and love to those around them.