THE 'SISTERS' STORY

Sisters Incorporated celebrates 60 years of care and survival......

.....with one very beautiful book, called 'Survivors'.

But what is Sisters? And who do they care for? Simply put, 'Sisters' is a beacon of hope in a community ravaged by domestic violence and abuse. They provide care, lodging, counseling and skills to those who need it most - which includes every woman, teenager and child in crisis and in need of healing physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Sisters Incorporated was born back in 1959 when  a group of women, each of whom cared very deeply about the plight of other women in trouble, got together to see how they could make a difference. Six decades later they continue to make a difference - helping many hundreds, if not thousands of women survive and thrive. But their own journey is one of survival too - due largely to the teams of caring, dedicated women that have and continue to make it happen.

And on August 24th 2019, a group of key women came together at Artscape to celebrate both their suvrival and their book.

Most important among them was Lyn Veldhuizen. Back in 1959, together with Sue Henderson, Lynn formally co-founded Sisters Incorporated - and tirelessly continues to consult and support them today.

Lynn shared the back story to the origins of 'Sisters' with Nancy Richards of Woman Zone - it was a story that grew in depth, width and richness as all the panel members shared their roles and memories.

With especially rich memories and the fine-tuned perspective that comes with many years experience in the field of social care was Chair of the Sisters Board, Dr Amelia Jones.

And then the amazing team that produced 'Survivors' the commemorative book: Lorraine de Villiers of Opechee Design Studios (left), Board member who came up with the idea of the book then went ahead to compile content design and produce it. And Dulcie Kirby, busy music teacher who committed to writing the story - researching, not just the history but to conducting a wealth of interviews of staff and survivors. past and present. Written through the voice of a fictional 'survivor', the book is a read to make you cry, smile and cheer at the sheer bravery of sixty years worth of amazing women.

As the current Manager of 'Sisters' at the old, but warm and welcoming house in Kenilworth, Delene Roberts has been described as a diamond. And the many facets she displays on a daily basis certainly makes her reputation glitter. While she has her own brand of leadership, she stands on the shoulders of a number of strong and caring managers before her - many of whom you can read about in the book.

But no amount of care can help a broken woman if she doesn't care for herself - and Henrietta, a former resident at 'Sisters' gave a testimony that whilst bringing tears to the eyes of the panel and the audience, was filled with hope and inspiration. It is both powerful and empowering for a woman to have her story heard - and over the years, 'Sisters' have been there to listen.

In so many ways 'Sisters' has been wonderfully creative - in their actions and pro-activity, in the resourcefulness and fund raising - and now also in their skills room.....

These are just a few examples of the lively and colourful creations and jewellery the women produce - uplifting not just those who buy, but themselves - raising confidence and spirits.

Woman Zone (for whom Lorraine also designed a beautiful book) salutes Delene (centre) and her dedicated 'Sisters' team - wishing them all strength and energy to continue for many years and decades ahead - as long as there is a need.

And to the visionary team who inspire and share from the bottom of their hearts - on behalf of all sisters-in-need that have or will one day benefit from 'Sisters' love and care, Thank You!

  You can read much, much more about the story of Sisters Incorporated in the book 'Survivors'. To find out how to get a copy, how to support or volunteer, check their website www.sisters.org.za, email them on admin@sisters.org.za or call 021 797 4190.
​Photographs: Theresa Smith      Event co-ordination: Beryl Eichenberger  both of Woman Zone