THE ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) Free State has launched a volunteer programme that it says is aimed at honouring the legacy of anti-apartheid heroine Winnie Madikezela-Mandela.
Dozens of female party members turned up for the launch held in Botshabelo on Sunday.
“The idea behind launching the Winnie Mandela volunteers initiative is to honour the legacy of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and mobilise women in the Free State to actively participate in community upliftment and development,” ANCWL Free State spokesperson Kele Thulo told The Free Stater.
“It aims to empower women by providing them with a platform to make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
Thulo said the initiative will promote active community engagement and volunteerism.
“The volunteers will be engaged in various activities that contribute to community development, such as organising grassroots campaigns, conducting educational and awareness programmes, supporting community projects, facilitating access to social services and advocating for women’s rights and empowerment,” she said.
“The Winnie Mandela volunteers initiative complements other ANC programmes by focusing specifically on mobilising and empowering women in the Free State.
“It adds to the ANC’s broader efforts to address community needs and challenges through grassroots engagement.
“By harnessing the energy and commitment of female volunteers, the programmes enhances the ANC’s capacity to effect positive change and upliftment in communities, particularly with regards to women’s issues and empowerment.”
Thulo said all women were welcome to join the programme.
“The programme aims to be inclusive and welcomes all women who are passionate about community development, social justice and women’s empowerment to become volunteers,” she said.
“Eligibility criteria may vary but, generally, any woman who aligns with these principles and is willing to dedicate her time and skills to the programme’s objectives can apply to be a volunteer.” – Staff Reporter