South African Women’s Forte (SAWF)
Established in 1997 amidst a transitioning South Africa, the South African Women’s Forte (SAWF) rose as a beacon for women’s rights, empowerment, and equality. Conceived during a time when the nation was experiencing newfound democracy, SAWF emerged from the vision of our Founding President, who recognized that despite racial equalities, women’s rights were yet to be fully acknowledged. Her passion, fueled by the suppressed ambitions and potentials of countless women held back by historically male-dominated perspectives, led to the birth of this remarkable organization.
Celebrating 25 years of trailblazing achievements, SAWF stands tall as a non-profit, dedicated to empowering South African women both in the professional realm and in daily life. The organization has played a pivotal role in the significant changes in women’s roles, with more females now holding senior positions in various sectors, including government and community leadership.
SAWF provides its members with an enriching journey of self-discovery, offering support, inspiration, and mentorship from an extraordinary team of accomplished women. Regularly hosting workshops, networking events, and social occasions, the Forte serves as the ideal platform for women to unleash their potential, share knowledge, and bring their dreams to life.
More than just a professional network, SAWF champions social justice and welfare. From addressing domestic violence to embarking on public awareness campaigns, and from feeding the hungry to fostering entrepreneurship in underserved communities, the organization has left an indelible mark. Although SAWF acknowledges there’s much more to achieve, its legacy is felt in every woman it empowers, every community it uplifts, and every change it instigates.
At its core, the South African Women’s Forte believes that every woman has a unique contribution to offer — whether it’s in the form of resources, ideas, or simply friendship. Through its endeavors, SAWF has consistently provided women the platform to connect, empathize, and turn their visions into reality, playing an instrumental role in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for South African women.
Founding President of SAWF since 1997 – Rita Abraham
As the new century dawned, South Africa transitioned to a democracy in 1994, recognizing equality across races. Yet, women still grappled with unequal rights. By 1997, I felt a compelling urge to ignite a movement within the realms of commerce and industry. The vision? A liberated South Africa where women also basked in the glow of freedom. This burgeoning idea consumed me, culminating in the inception of the South African Women’s Forte.
Historically, women have often been relegated to subservient roles, not by their own choosing, but due to deep-rooted male chauvinistic attitudes that stifled their aspirations. But the tide was turning. Armed with university degrees, diplomas, and other educational certifications, a wave of women saw the potential to champion their own destinies.
Founded in 1997, the SAWF is a non-profit organization that proudly marks its 25th anniversary this year. Since its establishment, women’s roles have transformed profoundly, with many assuming senior positions in communities, the workforce, and even within governmental ranks. The South African Women’s Forte stands out as a dynamic organization, steered by a cadre of dedicated, adept, and industrious women. For those joining the SAWF, it signifies the beginning of a self-exploratory journey. Alongside, a league of exceptional women lend their support, ushering in inspiration to realize life’s ambitions. Through regular workshops, networking events, and social gatherings, the SAWF crafts an impeccable platform to further its objectives.
I hold a firm belief that every woman has a unique essence to offer, be it in the form of time, resources, ideas, camaraderie, or knowledge-sharing. SAWF cultivates an environment where women excel in what they inherently do best: socialize, network, empathize, forge connections, and turn visionary ideas into tangible realities.
We take immense pride in the strides we’ve made. While the Forte doesn’t seek all the accolades, our impact is undeniable. Our expansive social welfare initiatives have brought solace to many. Though I often feel we could do more, our endeavors have inspired countless others to join hands in collective upliftment. We have extended aid to the hungry, provided attire for the needy, spurred entrepreneurship in remote locales, and boosted women’s confidence. Vocal against injustices, particularly domestic abuse, we’ve also rallied funds for numerous noble causes. Furthermore, we’ve launched awareness campaigns on domestic violence, educating communities about the widespread nature of abuse. Through our educational initiatives, we embolden women to instigate social change, ensuring that survivors access pivotal resources, including free legal counsel.
THE SAWF PRAYER
Dear God,
We thank you for bringing us together in faith and Hope.
Grant us every success in all that we endeavor to achieve as women.
Give us the courage and confidence to grow from strength to strength knowing that your hand is upon us in all that we do and say.
Help us to remember that every new day brings new hope and new opportunities.
Inspire us to use our gifts and to do what we can for better tomorrow.