Qhakaza Ladies Network Event Inspires Growth and Wellness

Ntombifuthi Buthelezi

Wellness and Fitness Coach, Weziwe Mayikivane sharing tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle with the attendees of the iQhakaza Women's Network.

Image credit: Ntombifuthi Buthelezi

Kicking off the event with the Concept of Empowering Women’s Lives,

The Qhakaza Ladies Network empowers women by sharing growth techniques, promoting self-love, and connecting women. The Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted the annual Qhakaza Ladies Network event at Steve Biko Campus Sports Centre on Saturday, 17 May 2025.

Simphiwe Sithole, one of the event organisers encouraged students to create a vision board as it helps individuals clarify their goals and aspirations. She further explained that by doing so, the students will have a clear understanding of what they want to achieve, giving them direction and motivation as vision board empowers them to take control of their lives, make informed decisions, and work towards their goals.

Sithole said, “You can’t be a woman without direction in life. Having direction starts with you being able to create a vision board, where you will write everything you want to achieve. It can include long-term goals and short-term goals. So that, you will be motivated to work hard and be dedicated to your schoolwork.”

Mandisa Kheswa, DUT graduate, and popular social media content creator. She emphasised the importance of women being financially independent by generating their own income and to have the ability to earn money through different means, such as using their skills and talents.

Kheswa said, “You must use your skills to earn money. Whether you are talented in nail art or social media, use those skills to generate income. Be proactive and independent, rather than relying on others for financial support. When using social media, maintain a positive online presence, as digital footprint can impact your reputation and opportunities. By being mindful of what you post, you can be able to build a strong online profile that will attracts followers and potential customers.”

Weziwe Manikivane, a Wellness and Fitness Coach who advocates for holistic transformation, said that it is essential for women to take care of themselves and that starts with what you are consuming. She informed them that they should be mindful of the food they consume and balance their diet.

“We do not say you must not eat, but you must ensure that you eat certain portions and consume a lot of protein because that is what your body requires a lot. My journey with the gym started after I had a child; I told myself that I would not allow having a child to change the structure of my body.”

“That is when I decided to join the gym, but throughout this journey, I learned that it benefits one mentally and physically. That is why, when you see someone in the gym, you must not assume that they are there to get slim or have a flat stomach; sometimes it is because they want to de-stress and also because it was recommended by their doctor.” she said.

The event concluded with fun activities such as aerobics, jumping castles and face painting designed to help students de-stress, and promote healthcare awareness.