Restore to Rise: Soweto Women Unite for Healing, Wellness and Empowerment.
Thabo Motlhabi
Mrs. Soweto Finalists 2026, Zandile Nxumalo, brings women together for an inspiring Women’s Month Initiative.
Women from across Soweto gathered at Teng Lifestyle in Naledi, Soweto, on Saturday, 08 August 2026, for an empowerment wellness and conversation initiative hosted by Mrs. Soweto Finalists 2026, Zandile Nxumalo, under the theme “Rise to Restore.”
The initiative aimed at young women and mothers created a safe and meaningful space for women to connect, share their experiences, and reflect on challenges they face in their families, community, and also workplaces.
Held during Women’s Month, the event also paid tribute to the historic contribution of South African women in the struggle for equality and freedom. This year marks 70 years since thousands of women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956, demanding an end to discriminating pass laws.
Mrs. Nxumalo said the initiative was about reminding women of the strength and encouraging them to reclaim their identity despite life’s challenges:
“Choose encouragement over fear and healing over hurts. You have the power and capacity to redefine your identity and use it again.”
The program featured speakers who openly shared their personal journeys, challenges, and experiences of overcoming diversity. Their stories encouraged participants to recognize that different situations do not have to define their futures.
The conversations also highlighted the importance of women supporting one another, standing up for their rights, seeking professional help when necessary, and working together to create stronger communities.
Participants welcomed the opportunity to hear from other women and share their own experiences:
Miss Kelebogile Mokoena, one of the participants, described the event as a valuable experience:
“Very fulfilling, information and grounding, especially as women and mothers, seeing another woman do such so openly.”
Wellness takes center stage.
Health and wellness were also central to the day’s program. Participants were encouraged to take their physical and mental health seriously and were reminded that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness. The discussions touched on mental health challenges and encouraged women experiencing different challenges to seek protection and assistance and make use of support groups, where they can speak openly in a safe environment.
Miss Senzekile Dlomo, saying, The gathering demonstrated the power of women coming together around a common purpose.:
“Very heartwarming, empowering, and motivating. I’m really glad I’ve come.”
A Call for Women to Rise Together
Through the Rise to Restore theme, Nxumalo sought not only to celebrate women but also to recognize their leadership and contributions within their families and communities. The initiative delivered a powerful message: when women support, encourage, and empower one another, they can turn personal challenges into opportunities for growth and restoration.
As Women’s Month continues, the gathering serves as a reminder that the legacy of South African women is not only about remembering the struggles of the past but also about building confidence and health and empowering women for the future.
At the conclusion of the campaign, an uplifting note, with participants taking part in a Goya and other exercises designed to help them relax, release tension, and reconnect with their bodies