Archive for February, 2016

“Have we ever wondered a mothers silent cries? Her struggles, her fears and her worries? Do we ever have time for this in our busy lives? Have we ever thought of the sacrifices she has done in order to make our lives happier, and her dreams cut short to make our dreams come true?”
― Ama H.Vanniarachchy

Mothers in South Africa face numerous challenges. Violence, poverty and limited healthcare are just some of the many struggles that they are up against. Mothers play a vital role in raising children and they contribute to a healthy society. It is therefore important to take note of the challenges that women are facing to meet the needs of their children. Children who have a safe home are better able to make the most of educational opportunities. They are also more resilient when facing difficulties later on in life. The basis for a healthy society starts in the early years of childhood.

Vulnerable mothers in Durban are joining hands to form support groups. The support groups unite mothers against the many struggles that they face on a day to day basis. Under the Narrative Foundation, the Tales of Turning Project provides a safe space where women can tell their stories and delve into the hidden possibilities which are located within themselves. The Tales of Turning project aims to generate aspiration and confidence in mothers as well as creating a space where they can identify their strengths and skills. The issues raised by the groups will be documented in films and various art forms to create awareness in the wider community.

Tales of Turning Project Manager, Jenna-Lee Strugnell, added ‘The Tales of Turning project honours mother in South Africa and acknowledges the challenges that they are facing. With sponsorship from Vodacom and the help of volunteers we are igniting social change in our community.”

Tales of Turning supports vulnerable mothers so that they can meet the needs of their children. This includes teaching parenting skills and showing the mothers how to make educational toys for their children out of recyclable materials. We teach the mothers how to develop self esteem and empathy in their children. Studies show that self esteem and empathy help children to reach their full potential. The Tales of Turning project helps to build family identity so that the children know what their family values and traditions are. A vital part of the project is connecting the mothers to resources within the community and wider community. This includes courses where they learn to sew as well  workshops that teach business skills.

Join us in supporting vulnerable mothers and their children. Together we can make a difference. Get involved in our community and share your stories about motherhood on the Tales of Turning facebook page. You can increase the impact of the project by donating your skills such as marketing, sewing and graphic design work. Small Acts Change the World!

Roland, who is dedicated to community upliftment, has collected toys for the children that are part of the Tales of Turning program. Thanks to Roland each mother will be presented with a pack of toys for their children. For children in underprivileged communities who have no access to toys this is an incredible gift. From the Tales of Turning project, thank you Roland!

Last week the Tales of Turning project manager flew to Johannesburg to spend some time with the Vodacom Change the World family. Workshop participants received media training from David O’ Sullivan who has years of experience in this industry. The training that workshop participants attended is of great benefit to their respective projects. The renowned Munnik Marais from CANSA shared fundraising skills which will help to ensure the sustainability of the NGOs who had representatives at this event. As a surprise guest the Mentalist, Gilan Gork, offered workshop guests both entertainment and useful information on interpreting body language. The highlight of the event was the presentations which were prepared by each NGO representative. This was an opportunity to share the details of the Tales of Turning project with a wider audience. Each NGO’s inspiring presentation provided an opportunity for learning and collaboration. After this experience our Tales of Turning team is ready to take the project to the next level!