In a world where the fight for gender justice often feels like an uphill battle, moments of joy and recognition remind us why we do this work.
The Great People of South Africa (TGPSA) is honored to be the first micro-grant recipient of the Giving Joy Grant in South Africa! Out of over 4,000 applications received globally, between January to April 2024, we stand among the six global winners—a testament to the power of grassroots activism and community-driven change.
At the heart of this incredible initiative is Joy Kolin, a woman whose very name embodies what she brings into the world—Joy, Hope, and Empowerment.
As the founder of Giving Joy, she has created more than just a funding opportunity; she has built a movement that believes in the power of small grants to create transformative impact in women-led organizations.
With just $500, TGPSA is implementing a Community-Based Paralegal Training Program for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). For many, this might seem like a small amount, but for a survivor seeking justice, for a woman fighting to reclaim her power, and for a community striving to break the cycle of violence, this grant is a lifeline.
It is a spark that ignites change, proving that when resources are placed in the hands of those on the ground, they multiply and create a ripple effect of transformation.
Through this training, we are equipping survivors with basic legal knowledge—empowering them to understand their rights, navigate the justice system, and advocate for themselves and others. These women are not just receiving aid; they are becoming changemakers in their own communities.
They will go on to support other survivors, educate families, and challenge judicial barriers that prevent women from accessing justice. This is how real, sustainable change begins—one empowered woman at a time.
We are deeply grateful to Giving Joy and Joy Kolin for believing in the work we do at TGPSA. They are not just funding projects; they are investing in dreams, in resilience, and in the future of communities like ours. Their unwavering support reminds us that small acts of kindness and solidarity can change lives.
And this is just the beginning. Our journey with Giving Joy will be documented through blogging and digital storytelling, ensuring that the impact of this grant is seen, felt, and celebrated beyond borders.
To every woman out there who dares to dream, to every survivor who refuses to be silenced, and to every grassroots organization fighting against the odds—you matter, your work matters, and there are people like Joy Kolin and Giving Joy who see you, believe in you, and will stand beside you.
To Joy Kolin and the entire Giving Joy family—thank you for believing in the power of small grants to create big change. May your generosity continue to light the way for many more women across the world.
#GivingJoy #SmallGrantsBigImpact #GenderJustice #WomenEmpowerment #TheGreatPeopleOfSouthAfrica
