The Cape Winelands is rich in inspiring women doing good in their communities, and for the past 10 years Valcare, a non-profit operating throughout this region, has run a women\u2019s empowerment initiative honouring such women. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Proteas of the Valley initiative spotlights everyday women doing extraordinary work. These women run soup kitchens, provide social services and safe spaces or initiate community development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Previous Proteas of the Valley are fierce women who conquer challenges and flourish despite facing difficult conditions. This initiative aims to give women a platform to share their stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe want to give women in the valley a space to share their stories, bring hope to others and inspire us with their strength,\u201d says Jolanda van der Lingen, Valcare\u2019s Relationship Manager. \u201cThat is why, 10 years later we are still running the Proteas of the Valley initiative.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The public nominates the Proteas. The 15 women selected are then honoured throughout Women\u2019s Month in August. Valcare gives these women the opportunity to share their stories in the media. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Christiana Leonard, a social auxiliary worker at Franschhoek Hospice, says Proteas of the Valley allowed her to do more good in her community. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBeing selected as a Protea was wonderful. I still cherish the whole experience. It elevated my standing in the community, opening doors for me to impact even more lives.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The chosen Proteas all have one thing in common \u2013 they have faced and overcome tremendous hardships in life. These hardships have shaped them into strong women who are giving and courageous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Albernita Francis, an after-care facilitator and life-skills development champion in Paarl, says becoming a Protea was an eye-opening experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cTelling my story was one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. Although I had to revisit dark places in my past, sharing my story was cathartic. Hopefully, it inspired others to look past their hardships to help others.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you know of an incredible woman in the Cape Winelands doing amazing things in her community, nominate them by 4 July 2022. Find the nomination form at valcare.org.za\/proteasofthevalley. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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