The Phambili Shelter for Women has survived for more than a decade and so benefited hundreds of women and children, victims of domestic violence. The success of the project was part of the reason for gaiety at the AGM of the Business Professional Women’s Club. This smallish group of women have kept the project alive through the exceptional support of the community. In 2008 96 women and 109 children were housed, counseled and trained to re-enter society.

The Club has kept the project alive through fund raising, and the dedi-cation of some committee members (who have spend considerable time ensuring that everything runs smoothly at the Shelter in Rosemore).
Perseverance and hard work also kept the Interdict Room at the George Magistrates Court going. This service is run by volunteers who help women to acquire an interdict against an abusive spouse. Training is given to volunteers by BPW member and local attorney, Isabel Buhr who reported that 10 220 cases were handled from March 1999 to May 2009 in George and at the Thembalethu Interdict Office 604 cases in 2008, and 4 745 in total from April 2002 to May 2009.

In her capacity as Chairperson, Buhr thanked the volunteers as well as the Department of Justice for their continued co-operation in running the operation at the two courts on a daily basis.

In her presidential report, Celia Zietsman reflected on the networking evenings, the breakaway to De Rust and other fun and informative events. New members were welcomed.

The women enjoyed an evening of fun at the Wynkelder Restaurant at St George’s Square (former Stones Bar).

BACK

The newly elected BPW Committee were upbeat at their AGM held at the Wynkelder Restaurant which is suitable for corporate functions. From left front - Anthea Buys, Celia Zietsman and Sanita Branford. Back - Melissa Badenhorst, Pauline Lourens, Gail Robbertz, Margie Shankland and Frieda Henning.