www.univen.ac.za UNIVEN Women’s Day Celebration 2026: Empowering Women Through Health, Voice and Purpose

An aerial photo of the attendees

The University of Venda (UNIVEN) hosted a vibrant Women’s Day Celebration on 21 August 2026 at the UNIVEN Sports Hall, bringing together women from across the institution under the theme, “Her Health, Her Voice, Her Power.” The event provided a platform for reflection, empowerment and learning, while reaffirming the University’s commitment to advancing women’s well-being, leadership and development. The programme featured a series of insightful presentations addressing key issues affecting women, including health, mental well-being, parenting, lifestyle, personal growth and resilience.

Dr Todani Nethengwe

Delivering the opening remarks, Dr Todani Nethengwe, Head of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management in the Faculty of Management, Commerce and Law at UNIVEN, celebrated the remarkable contributions of women at the University and beyond. She recognised their role in advancing teaching, research, community engagement, leadership and transformation.

She paid tribute to the women who paved the way for the rights and opportunities en-joyed today, while acknowledging that challenges such as gender-based violence, discrimination and unequal opportunities continue to affect women. Dr Nethengwe encouraged women to empower one another, create opportunities for future genera-tions and remain united in their pursuit of equality and excellence.

Prof Florence Masakona

The programme began with an inspiring mini-devotion by Prof Florence Masakona, a full-time pastor at Calvary Christian Church, who reminded women of their purpose, value and potential.
Drawing from biblical teachings and personal experiences, she encouraged women to break free from limitations, embrace independence and confidently pursue their aspirations. Her message challenged women to believe in themselves, remain authentic and continue striving to make a meaningful impact in their families, workplaces and communities.

Dr Takalani Mulondo

In the session “Screen Her: The Road to Cervical Cancer Elimination,” Dr Takalani Mulondo, a Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, brought her clinical expertise and passion for women’s healthcare to the discussion. She specialises in high-risk obstetrics, preventive women’s healthcare, and cervical cancer prevention and screening. She also leads community outreach and health ed-ucation initiatives aimed at expanding access to life-saving screening services, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Dr Mulondo highlighted cervical cancer as a preventable disease when detected early and urged women to make regular screening a non-negotiable priority. Encouraging women to overcome fear, stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer screening, she reminded attendees that prioritising their health is an act of self-care that protects families and communities alike. Her message reinforced one of the day’s central themes: early screening saves lives.

Ms Ditebogo Manana

In an engaging session on “Parenting with Purpose,” Ms Ditebogo Manana, a qualified Social Worker and Policy Developer, shared insights shaped by her professional experience in the public sector and her passion for strengthening families.

She currently serves as a Social Work Policy Manager at the Department of Social Development, Government of the Republic of South Africa, where she works on policies and programmes relating to probation services, social crime prevention and re-storative justice.

Ms Manana encouraged women to embrace intentional parenting by remaining actively involved in their children’s emotional, educational and social development. Addressing challenges facing modern families, including violence, abuse, mental health, father absence and the influence of social media, she urged parents to create safe spaces where children feel heard and supported. She also emphasised the importance of responsible digital parenting and continuous guidance throughout a child’s life journey.

Ms Khanimamba Ubisi

Nutrition and healthy living also took centre stage as Ms Khanimamba Ubisi, a Dietitian at Crestcare Zoutpansberg Private Hospital, shared practical insights into the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.

Practising through EnriDietetics, she is passionate about preventive healthcare and empowering women to take charge of their health through good nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices and proactive healthcare practices. She encouraged women to adopt balanced diets, remain physically active, attend regular medical check-ups and seek professional healthcare advice when needed. Warning against unhealthy dieting practices and poor eating habits, she reminded women that caring for themselves is essential to the well-being of their families and communities.

Dr Refilwe Pila-Nemutandani

Dr Refilwe Pila-Nemutandani, Head of the Student Counselling and Career Development Unit under the Centre for Higher Education Teaching and Learning (CHETL), addressed the gathering on “Prioritising Mental Health.”
She brought an important focus to the emotional and psychological well-being of women, speaking candidly about the invisible burdens women often carry. She encouraged participants to acknowledge their pain rather than mask it behind strength.
Dr Pila-Nemutandani called on women to embrace self-love, seek healing, make time for self-care and create supportive spaces where saying, “I am not okay,” is met with compassion rather than judgement.

Ms Mbangiseni Dzivhani

Adding a deeply personal perspective, Ms Mbangiseni Dzivhani, a retired public servant, author and advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality, shared her journey through widowhood and spoke about rebuilding one’s identity after loss.

With more than 20 years of experience in gender advocacy, social development, policy development and programme management, she has held senior positions in government and continues to champion women’s empowerment through writing, advocacy and business.

She reflected on how cultural expectations, stigma and patriarchal norms often shape the experiences of widows, while encouraging women to reject harmful labels and redefine their futures. Her story of resilience, education and professional success served as a powerful testimony that widowhood does not define a woman’s destiny. She urged women to reclaim their identities, break the silence surrounding widowhood and move forward with courage and hope.

Mrs Uanda Ndou

As the event drew to a close, Mrs Uanda Ndou, Director of Human Resources and host of the celebration, expressed her gratitude to the speakers for sharing their expertise and experiences.
She also commended the women staff members of the University of Venda for their overwhelming participation and for coming together to celebrate and honour woman-hood. Mrs Ndou further acknowledged the organisers, led by Ms Velencia Paupye, as well as the programme facilitator, Ms Doreen Murukhu, for their sterling work in ensuring the success of the event.

Prof Shonisani Mulovhedzi

Delivering the closing remarks, Prof Shonisani Mulovhedzi, HOD in Early Childhood in the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education at UNIVEN, reflected on the significance of the theme. She encouraged women to prioritise their health, ampli-fy their voices and recognise their power to drive positive change.

She urged participants to apply the lessons shared throughout the programme and continue supporting one another in their personal and professional journeys.

The Women’s Day Celebration was more than a commemorative event; it was a powerful reminder that empowered women are catalysts for transformation. Through meaningful dialogue, shared experiences and practical insights, the programme reaf-firmed that when women prioritise their health, use their voices and embrace their power, they strengthen not only themselves but also their families, communities and society at large.

Ms Doreen Morukhu facilitating the programme

Dr Mercy Masakona Madzivhandila is entertaining the participants during the event

Women in celebration mood

Ms Velencia Maupye (right) receiving a token of appreciation from Prof Lindiwe Mulaudzi (left)

Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811