Across the globe, the year 2020 had been momentous, no thanks to a ravaging COVID-19 pandemic and the attendant economic recession.
The situation, however, did not stop a group of women and men under the auspices of Worthy Women NPC, White River, Mpumalanga Province in South Africa from putting smiles on the faces of unique children resident at Pelenechi Manor.
On Saturday, 12 December 2020, Worthy Women NPC ensured 30 children from Pro Gratia Learning Centre and Dasha Foundation, had a time of their lives.
For safety reasons, the gathering strictly adhered to COVID-19 protocols. Worthy women President, Leviena Smit said it was paramount to do so as they valued life.
“It’s important to make sure that our children know and are reassured of how much they are loved and valued. Worthy Women will always make sure they appreciate their uniqueness and support them all the way. Even in this challenging time, we need to unite and do all we can,” said Smit.
Worthy Women NPC was established in 2017 by Leviena Smit, Chris Smit, Bianca Birnie and Sylvia Mahlang, with the aim to change people’s lives – especially women and children who have been abused.
This Special Needs Pageant for girls & women with disabilities redefines beauty. The organization hopes to take an unconventional route to doing this, viz, pageantry which seeks to “provide opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to build confidence and self-esteem in a supportive environment.
While the pageant may be based on a model traditionally centred on beauty, Worthy Women NPC works to redefine beauty as anchored on self-esteem and confidence rather than physical appearance. Unlike traditional beauty pageants, Miss & Ms. Worthy Women do not aim to select the most attractive individual. Rather, it is a competition which uses advocacy, achievement, communication, and presentation skills to select the most accomplished and articulate spokeswoman for Persons with disabilities.
In the presence of the children, their parents and teachers, Mr. Smit formally launched the Miss and Ms. Worthy Women Special Needs Pageant.
After the announcement all dignitaries were crowned with silver tiaras and presented with gifts. They also posed for photos with the Worthy Women team.
There was ample refreshments of fried chicken, salads, chips, sweets, drinks, and others for lunch.
Worthy Women NPC will like to thank all sponsors that helped make the day a huge success.
Some Photos from the event:
