This Women’s Day, the Get It team reached out to a few of the city’s phenomenal women to discover the one lesson an inspiring woman once taught them. Their stories are a testament to strength, wisdom, and the power of women uplifting women.
Here’s what they had to say:
Charne Bakema, with her mum, Charmaine Hefer
Charne Bakema said the most important thing her mum, Charmaine Hefer, ever taught her was: “You are important. Even if you’re a girl, always stand up for yourself.” These are words she has carried with her throughout her life.
Amentia Buffel
Throughout her life, Amentia Buffel says she has been profoundly shaped by two remarkable women: her mother, Caroline Klaasen, and her spiritual mother, the late Sheila Roscoe. “From my mother, I learnt the quiet but unshakable strength of resilience.
“She showed me, not just through words but through her actions, that no matter how tough life gets, you can stand firm with dignity, keep moving forward, and create beauty even from brokenness. Sheila Roscoe, a woman of deep faith and wisdom, often reminded me of a powerful truth: ‘God writes straight with crooked lines.’”
Charmaine Mabope
Charmaine Mabope said one of the most powerful lessons she learnt from a strong woman in her life was from her mother, Ntsiwoa Andries. “Growing up, I watched her face unimaginable hardships with quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a heart full of compassion.
“She taught me that being a woman is not about being perfect or having it all figured out, but about rising every time you fall – and doing so with dignity and courage. She showed me that true strength lies in softness that doesn’t break, in kindness that doesn’t falter, and in choosing to be gentle in a world that often rewards hardness.”
Puseletso Makoro
The most valuable lesson her mother always taught her was: “It’s not about perfection – it’s about self-respect, compassion for others, and the ability to rise above negativity without losing one’s softness.
“Being a woman who moves with grace is a form of silent leadership. It inspires, comforts, and commands respect – not through force, but through presence.”
Mpho Smith
“A great lesson I’ve learnt from my mother,” says Mpho Smith, “is that every young girl should know the importance of being firmly grounded in her life’s decisions – no matter how hard it may be or how others view it. As long as it holds value for you, it doesn’t matter what others say. In a nutshell: listen to people’s advice, but act on your own decisions.”
Sisipho Sibali
“To always carry yourself with grace. It’s beautiful to be a woman moving with grace, because grace is power wrapped in elegance.
“To move with grace means navigating the world with strength, resilience, and dignity, even in the face of challenges. A graceful woman carries herself with quiet confidence, speaks with kindness, and acts with intention,” is what Sisipho’s mentor always taught her.
Compiled by the Get It team
