We Engage

• Support Groups
  Support groups form the core part of the sisters4sisters program. Currently, support groups meet in Woodstock and Nomzamo every 2 weeks. They are open for anyone who wishes to attend.
  
  These groups are meant to serve as a safe space where women can share their stories. Whether they have previously experienced domestic abuse or sexual violence, or are currently experiencing it, women can find support and help in the caring environment of the Sisters4Sisters group.
  
  In addition to regular meetings, sisiters4sisters works with other local organisations and brings guest speakers to run workshops for the support group. The workshops often focus on women's empowerment, self-esteem building, and strategies to try and break the cycle of abuse. Recently, Samantha van Shalkwyk, a PhD student at the University of the Cape Town, has been working extensively with our support groups in facilitating meetings and providing a structured outlet for women to share their stories.
  
  Sisters4Sisters is also working toward offering sisters skills training and career counseling. The group recognises that economic empowerment is just as important as emotional empowerment for abused women trying to support their families and improve their lives.
  
  Our support groups, in addtion to creating a sense of community, provide an opportunity for sisters to create a network of other women they know and are connected to, which can aid in finding job opportunities or skill training.
• Young Girlfriends
  Young Girlfriends is the newest program created by Sisters4Sisters. Incorporating girls aged 9-15, the girls learn about things such as life skills, leadership, empowerment, respect, practicing good communication skills, types of abuse, HIV/AIDS, sexuality, educational development, positive body image, and how to celebrate cultural differences.
  
  Learning takes place leisurely, in an open and friendly atmosphere. The girls are fun, diverse, intelligent and enjoy activities such as dancing, singing, acting, hiking, swimming, playing soccer, and talking. The program encourages girls to become leaders in their communities and serve as role models to their friends.
• Networking
  Nowadays, networking, having connections, and knowing the right people is an important step in finding jobs and career opportunities. Through our support groups, sisters are introduced to a wide variety f women who may know of local job opportunities or offerings. In addition to this component of economic empowerment for women living in poverty, networking creates a sense of community among the sisters. Sisters know that is they ever need help with anything in their lives, there will always be a sister to turn to.
  
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