Asanda Munyu/ Picture: Supplied
Many have talked the talk, one woman, by the name of Asanda Munyu has opted to walk the walk when it comes to empowering single mothers, and providing a safe space where they know they are seen as more than just being mothers, but for their humanity as well through an inspiring initiative called the One Mom Every Role event.
Although once seen as taboo, single mothers now make up a significant part of society, at 43% to be exact, as per Asanda, who has made it a mission to lead the charge when it comes to sparking conversations about how single mothers can be better supported from a systemic level such as policy-making, all the way to their individual lives at home.
What is One Mom Every Role?
For now, One Mom Every Role is an event created to establish a safe community for each and every kind of single mother that exists in the country. According to Asanda, two-thirds of children in South Africa are raised by single mothers, however, there appear to be no communities or systems put in place to adequately support these caregivers. However, an ambitious Asanda has revealed that the event is merely a stepping stone to sparking a shift and movement that calls on important players to come to the party, and give single mothers the support they deserve and need.
“This is a call for collaboration, we know that single mothers need more than just attention; they need structured, long-term support. If you believe in building a stronger, more inclusive society, now is the time to get involved. Join us in creating real change that benefits not just single mothers but communities as a whole. Together, we can make an impact that lasts,” she says.
Key speakers and partners
When it comes to making the event a success, selecting the correct speakers who are not only experts who will speak to the real and lived experiences of single mothers, but also choosing individuals and brands who genuinely care about the cause of ensuring that single mothers are recognised for the signifcant role they play in society.
“It wasn’t just about getting big names. It was about choosing people who genuinely care, who are willing to show up with honesty and compassion, and who want to contribute to real change, not just deliver a talk and go home.”
Tasked with serving as the MC and curator of the vibes of the day is mom influencer and entreprenuer Lebo Mehlomakhulu, who will be introducing a star-studded line up of speakers including renowned TV and radio presenter Penny Lebyane, boss lady and top attorney Ayesha Karim, and VP of global brand Carly Esterhuizen.
The day will also consist of a powerful discussion on “diverse motherhood experiences and redefining personal identity beyond parenting,” which will be moderated by BONA’s very own editor-in-chief Viwe Ntlebi, while Nonku William, Thobeka Majozi and Rushda Moosajee will serve as panellists. More speakers, such as Dr Jessica Steinbridge, Vanessa Raphealy and Ayesha Karim will be imparting some well-needed knowledge to attendees regarding a myriad of topics, including legal matters, financial matters, mental wellness, as well as navigating different roles outside of motherhood.
Asanda also highlights how she has intentionally partnered with brands and organisations such as Amazi and Kellenova, who have stepped up in collaborating with One Mom Every Role to spark real and inspiring change for single mothers.
What’s Next?
As she has been able to dream this ambitious project into existence, as she put the final touches before the doors open at Radisson Collection Hotel on Saturday, 10 May, Asanda cannot help but marvel at the journey that organising the event has brought about. Not only was she exposed to the overwhelming need for community, but she was also further shown why the work she was doing was important.
After the event, she hopes that the conversation will not die down, but rather will be amplified by One Mom Every Role and all its supporters and will result in effective systemic change.
“This event isn’t just about one day of celebration; it’s about creating a shift. We want to spark a movement that calls on brands, government and society as a whole to see the value in supporting single mothers not as a charity, but as partners in building stronger, healthier communities. The idea is to make positive change,” she says.
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