Women’s Agricultural Union still going strong in Boksburg
The South African Women’s Agricultural Union (Die Suid-Afrikaanse Vroue Landbou-Unie) is 85-years-old this year.
The organisation, which has existed in Boksburg since 1960, is comprised of women who are involved with community projects and who believe in equipping themselves with knowledge and skills.
The organisation has many branches around Ekurhuleni and has slowly become a household name for their good deeds in communities.
The Boksburg branch meets every first Wednesday of the month at the NG-kerk Boksburg South in Jubilee Road at 1pm.
Magriet Marx, the chairperson of the Boksburg branch, explained the purpose of the organisation is to broaden knowledge about family and community.
“We help women to discover and develop their talents, improve their view on life, to set high standards and only be satisfied with the best. The organisation helps to encourage persistence and fellowship with one another,” Marx said.
At the meetings the women knit, bake, make crafts, embroider, machine sew, take photos, crochet and do many other skills-based exercises and the meetings also include a special guest speaker.
Recently, Dazelle Venter from Be Dazzled gave a demonstration on how to work with a twin needle and how to do a “verstek” corner on tablecloths.
Before the meeting starts, the members socialise and enjoy a cup of tea and a light lunch.
“Sometimes we invite other branches to our gatherings. Once a year all the members from all the branches meet at a national conference where we showcase what we have done throughout the year. The competitions are also a highlight of the conference,” Marx said.
The organisation also donates to local charities through projects such as knitting teddy bears for traumatised children involved in court proceedings.
Alta Prinsloo, chairperson for the region, urged young women to join the SAWAU.
“It is very important to share our knowledge of skills with young people so that they can continue the legacy of the organisation. In this organisation we don’t discriminate against anyone; everyone is welcome,” she said.
For more information, contact Magriet Marx on 082 774 5955.
