Healing through storytelling: The launch of 'Our Stories, Our Voices'
Attendees at a book launch at the V&A Waterfront on Heritage Day.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Doctor Thozama April-Madumo from the University of Fort Hare and the editor of 'Our Stories, Our Voices: From Pain to Power'.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Ella Mangisa, executive director of Ilitha Labantu, paid tribute to women at the event.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Former minister of social development Bathabile Dlamini in conversation with Tsepo Nketle at the launch.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Stories of survival and resilience took centre stage at a Waterfront bookstore when Ilitha Labantu launched the second edition of its anthology, Our Stories, Our Voices: From Pain to Power.
The book brings together the voices of women who turned hardship into strength, framing storytelling as both testimony and healing.
The launch, held on Heritage Day, Tuesday, September 24, gathered women who openly reflected on their journeys, among them struggle icon and former minister of social development, Bathabile Dlamini, who spoke of betrayal within the liberation movement and her continued fight for women’s rights.
Ms Dlamini shared stories of how women were often sidelined in the fight for equality.
“I think we have been through a very poisonous period as women of South Africa,” she said.
She reflected on her past roles in both the ANC Youth League and the Women’s League, which resonated deeply with the audience, sparking conversations about the need for unity in the continuing fight for women’s rights.
“We stood up because of the positions of power we occupied,” she said.
“As women, when you get elected, you must continue fighting the struggle for women's emancipation.”
Another inspiring voice at the event was a Zambian-born Winnie Mabena, who faced an unexpected battle with HIV/AIDS at just 16 years old.
“It was like a curse to have HIV/AIDS because no one had it except me,” she said, adding that she often recounted the victimisation and discrimination she faced from her family and community.
Despite the ongoing stigma, Ms Mabena has embraced her reality.
“I’ve decided to choose joy, even when it’s hard,” she said.
The editor of the book, Dr Thozama April-Madumo, emphasised the significance of women reclaiming their voices through writing.
“When women start writing their stories, they reclaim their voices,” she said, adding that the anthology serves not only as a collection of stories but also as a vital repository of women's history.
Ilitha Labantu, founded in 1989 by the late Mandisa Monakali, continues to provide critical support for victims of gender-based violence through its Isisele Senyathi Women’s Hub. Ella Mangisa, the executive director of Ilitha Labantu, expressed her gratitude towards the contributors.
“We aim to give a platform for women to share their stories and go through healing,” she said.