Joyce gugu msomi

What does your company do?

Ukukhanya KweSizwe is a community-focused organization dedicated to empowering individuals and promoting social change. Our initiatives include: Our Programs and Services 1. Skills Development: Offering skills training and workshops to enhance employability. 2. Job Readiness Programs: Preparing individuals for the workforce. 3. Learnership Placement: Facilitating learnership opportunities. 4. Entrepreneurship Programs: Supporting emerging entrepreneurs. 5. Safe Space Advocacy: Creating safe environments for women, girls, and LGBTIA+ individuals. 6. Human Rights Awareness: Conducting awareness campaigns in schools and communities. 7. GBV Awareness: Educating communities about gender-based violence. 8. Support Services: Providing assistance to GBV victims. 9. Healing and Support: Offering healing memories support services. 10. Mentorship: Guiding emerging women entrepreneurs and students. 11. Leadership and Entrepreneurial Programs: Fostering leadership skills in primary schools. 12. Soup Kitchen: Providing meals for school children and hungry community members. Community Impact Our organization strives to make a positive impact in the township community by: - Empowering individuals through skills development and support services - Promoting human rights and social justice - Providing safe spaces and support for vulnerable groups - Fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth Conducting & implementing these critical areas Ukukhanya KweSizwe creates a brighter future& positively impact the community that we serve.

What is your biggest success?

Greatest achievement is advocacy success of establishment of a Thuthuzela Care Centre in the Kwamashu township, which opened its doors in January 2025. This centre provides a safe space for women and girls, offering support services to survivors of gender-based violence. This milestone has earned Joyce numerous accolades, including the Gagasi FM Shero's award. Her leadership extends beyond this achievement, with appointments as: - KZN Provincial Chairperson for the Women Sector - Member of the KZN Gender Machinery - President of the NGO Network - Member of the KZN Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration Council The above demostrates my commitment to empowering women and promoting social change. Her dedication to creating safe spaces and supporting survivors of gender-based violence has made a significant impact in her community. My achievements serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the importance of advocacy and leadership in driving positive change.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

1. Lack of Funding: Securing sufficient resources to support initiatives and sustain the organization & myself have been a significant challenge & even more during & after Covid pandemic. 2. Limited Resources: Insufficient access to resources, such as personnel, equipment & transportation have hindered my ability to effectively implement programs. 3. Loss of Office Space: Losing a physical space to operate have disrupted the organization's activities and impacted ability to serve the community efficiently. Despite these challenges, my determination and resilience have enabled me to make a meaningful impact in my community. The achievements, including the establishment of the Thuthuzela Care Centre, demonstrate my commitment to creating positive change.