Gender-based violence (GBV)is a global pandemic that affects 1 in 3 women in their lifetime and sometimes the survivors often find themselves disoriented and ambivalent about their next step. Edcon Group launched Edgars UNiTE Orange Day Campaign 5 years ago, with the goal of empowering women who are survivors of domestic violence. The women are introduced to the world of fashion & design and are taught how to sew through the informal workshop and accredited training courses from SEWAFRIKA.
Upon completing the workshops and training, each woman receives a sewing machine and voucher from Edgars UNiTE to help them start their own business, or pursue other income-generating work, or use their qualification to secure employment. To date, over 229 women across Gauteng, Western Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal have completed their accredited training. The Campaign recently launched in the Eastern Cape where 50 women will be trained.
The campaign opens opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and encourages independence for these women. This will ultimately allow the survivors to reclaim their dignity and become self-sufficient. Nonhlanhla Phakathi, Founder of Soul Vintage Couture got a chance to a fresh start when a social worker told her about the Edgars UNiTE Orange Day Campaign.
