As South Africa marks Women's Month, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) is highlighting the transformative role of shelters for survivors of gender-based Violence (GBV), with one woman's journey from abuse to entrepreneurship illustrating the impact of timely intervention and support.
Nomfundo Nxumalo's story reflects how access to protection, counselling and skills development can help survivors rebuild their lives and regain their independence.
After experiencing domestic abuse at the hands of her former boyfriend, Nxumalo sought assistance at the Daveyton Magistrate's Court, where she applied for a protection order.
Her case was referred to the Gauteng Department of Social Development, and a social worker placed her at the Theodorah Ndaba Victim Support Centre in Daveyton.
Funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, the shelter provides accommodation, protection and comprehensive support services to women and children who have experienced abuse, in line with the Domestic Violence Act.
In addition to providing a safe place to stay, the centre offers counselling, psychosocial support, therapeutic programmes and skills development initiatives, aimed at helping survivors regain confidence and achieve financial independence.
Speaking during the closing of Mandela Month at the end of July, where the Ekurhuleni Women's Forum donated pre-loved clothing, sanitary towels and toiletries to the shelter, the 43-year-old mother recalled arriving at the facility with her children and only the clothes on their backs.
“I arrived at the shelter with my children and nothing else. We only had the clothes we were wearing. The shelter provided for all our basic needs until we exited. While I was at Theodorah Ndaba, we received counselling, therapeutic programmes and a host of other services, including skills development, that helped restore my confidence and prepared me for a new beginning,” Nxumalo recalled.
Beyond providing a safe haven, the shelter equipped her with practical skills and opportunities that enabled her to rebuild her life. Through the organisation’s support, Nxumalo obtained her driver's licence, secured employment, and was encouraged to save towards a more stable future for herself and her children.
"I managed to save R19 500 and bought a stand in an informal settlement. At the back of my mind, I always had the dream of building a home where my children and I could start a new chapter and have a better future," she said.
Today, Nxumalo is a proud entrepreneur running a full-time perfume business, allowing her to provide for her family with dignity and confidence. Her transformation from a victim of abuse to a self-reliant businesswoman reflects the life-changing impact that timely intervention and holistic support can have on survivors of GBV.
As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, the department said stories like Nxumalo’s highlight the importance of creating safe spaces where women can escape abuse, heal from trauma and access opportunities that empower them to become financially independent.
They also underscore the critical role played by social workers, counsellors and community organisations in restoring hope and helping survivors reclaim their lives.
“Nomfundo Nxumalo’s journey is a testament to the fact that while Gender-Based Violence may leave deep scars, it does not have to define a woman’s future. With the right support, compassion and determination, survivors can become thrivers, building brighter futures for themselves, their children, and their communities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
