At Dreamcatcher South Africa we’ve been very busy with our passion — working in communities. With Women’s Month closing yesterday and Tourism Month and Heritage Month both starting today, this feels like the perfect moment to share updates from the Dreamcatcher world.
We are reminded of the powerful story behind the celebration of Women’s Month in South Africa.
On 9 August 1956, more than 20,000 women of all races and backgrounds marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, protesting apartheid’s extension of pass laws to Black women. Led by Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn, they carried petitions with over 100,000 signatures, stood in silence for 30 minutes — and then sang the now-iconic words:
“Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo!” (“You strike a woman, you strike a rock!”)
The march became a lasting symbol of unity, courage, and women’s leadership in shaping South Africa’s future. ‘Women’s Month’ celebrates the continuing role of women in building a free, inclusive, and thriving society. This year’s ‘Women’s Month’ theme, “Building Resilient Economies for All,” is at the very heart of Dreamcatcher’s work since our founding over three decades ago. As we step into ‘Tourism Month’, we continue this journey with the Dreamcatcher Kamamma enterprises who welcome international guests into their communities and Homestays, offer vibrant Cook-Ups and storytelling around the table and leading community walkabouts, celebrating culture, heritage & resilience.
The Dreamcatcher family is a network of enterprises, board members, supporters, and volunteers — all working together for local economic growth, environmental protection, and community development. This image captures some of the amazing women who have played a pivotal role in our journey.
Today, we honour and celebrate the Dreamcatcher family including those who are sadly no longer with us, and those across the world who have supported us through thick and thin! These women led by Dreamcatcher’s Founder Anthea have been a rock in pioneering inclusive tourism and its benefits in South Africa.
Throughout September we will share updates on our recent activities and community impact.
