Meet Akhona Ndlunguane, a native of Bloemfontein with roots in the Eastern Cape, who currently calls Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, her home. In reflecting on the profound influences that have shaped her into the woman and mother she is today, Ndlunguane pays homage to her late mother, whose teachings and unwavering self-belief laid the cornerstone for her adult life. The pride she expresses for her mother's efforts in raising her and her siblings is a testimony to the enduring impact of maternal guidance.
Before delving into business discussions, we sought to understand what motivates Akhona and serves as her source of inspiration. She shared that at the core of her daily life are her children, acting as the nucleus of her existence. Drawing inspiration and encouragement from observing single women with older children, she envisions the Akhona she aspires to become in the near future. With intentional purpose, she guides her daily interactions, consistently challenging her conversations, circles, and thoughts. Her dedication to personal growth is palpable in her thoughtful choices, underscoring the profound impact of the company she keeps and the environments she engages with.
Transitioning into her role as a wellness coach, Ndlunguane's passion stems from a genuine desire to see women thrive emotionally, financially, and physiologically. The events organized under the banner of her VOW initiative consistently address these dimensions, recognizing the psychological aspects that influence personal development. Ndlunguane underscores the importance of creating a culture of constructive criticism, fostering an environment where self-reflection and progress thrive. VOW, which started and still is an initiative that supports widows (Voice Of Widows), also has a business empowerment wing called (Voice of Women) in business. Here, Ndlunguane hosts events that support women in improving and growing their businesses.
Noticing a gap in events catering to widows, Ndlunguane founded VOW to provide a space for widows to share their experiences. Beyond offering solace, VOW aims to debunk societal expectations imposed on widows and address the challenges widows face, including bullying from marital families and estate disputes. Legal and financial aspects are not overlooked, with professionals featured on VOW panels to empower and educate women in navigating these complexities.
Touching on the impact of VOW - For Ndlunguane, the true sense of purpose lies in witnessing women who, having navigated grief, emerge stronger and more empowered. The stories of businesses being established, educational pursuits being realized, and inner peace being found are a testament to the transformative impact of VOW. Ndlunguane sees herself as a guiding hand through the phases of grief, providing support and encouragement for women to invest in self-development.
Before we wrap it up - In what ways do you believe events like your upcoming "Setting A Tone" contribute to the broader conversation on women's rights and empowerment, especially during Human Rights Month in South Africa?
"Setting A Tone" kind of events play a crucial role in conveying messages to the relevant audience. Women, being people of meaningful interest, have the capacity to achieve great things in unity, capable of creating historical change, forever altering the world. These events serve as a platform to amplify the voices of women, emphasizing the shift towards women taking charge of their own space, rather than relying on the hope that government officials will intervene someday. Setting A Tone becomes a comprehensive statement inclusive of setting goals in all aspects, aiming to be visible, heard, and impactful regardless of one's circumstances. The emphasis on self-accountability is a fundamental principle that VOW adheres to, bringing forth a unique and authentic approach to empowerment.
As the upcoming VOW event on March 9th approaches, Ndlunguane anticipates a transformative experience for all attendees. VOW, she asserts, creates an environment where women can network and collaborate for meaningful outcomes in various projects. Each year witnesses women leaving these gatherings with newfound inspiration and a language of possibilities, reinforcing Ndlunguane's enduring vision of empowerment and resilience.
Images by: Media Seven