Meeting Advocate Thando Gumede at the African Women in Dialogue (AfWID) Forum was nothing short of magical.
As a Women of the South Speak Out (WOSSO) Fellow, I have been exposed to incredible advocacy spaces, and AfWID was one of those transformative gatherings that reaffirmed my purpose.
While I have followed Advocate Thando’s work on social media and admired her contributions to gender equality, particularly through her role at the Gender Commission, this was my first time seeing her in person. And wow—what a presence she has! and muhle usisi, kakhulu (She is beautiful)
Advocate Thando Gumede is a formidable force in the fight for gender equality and social justice. As a legal expert and activist, she has dedicated her career to dismantling oppressive systems and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.
Her work at the Gender Commission has been instrumental in holding institutions accountable for gender-based discrimination and advocating for policies that protect women and other vulnerable groups. Despite her impressive credentials and fierce advocacy, what stands out the most is her humility. She carries herself with a quiet confidence, never seeking the spotlight but always commanding it with her brilliance.
When Advocate Thando took the stage as part of a powerful panel discussion on young women in advocacy spaces, she spoke with fire and conviction, shaking the entire room with her insights on colonialism, the destruction of family structures, and the urgent need to restore values that once nurtured strong, just societies.
She dissected the roots of misogyny, inequality, and violence with such clarity that every word she uttered resonated deeply. I was captivated, hanging onto every syllable, wishing the session would never end. I kept standing up every second and saying, Baxelele Advovo! (Tell them Advocate)
When it came time for audience questions, my hand shot up. I desperately wanted to ask her about backlash, particularly in the judicial system. Inspired by the Mbengo vs. Mbenenge tribunal hearing and the growing resistance survivors face in courts, I knew she would provide a response that carried both wisdom and truth.
Unfortunately, with the packed room and limited time, my question went unheard. But if there’s one thing about me, it’s that I don’t give up easily. I whispered to myself, “I’ll catch her another time.”
And then, the universe conspired in my favor. The very next day, as I sat in the auditorium, and I swear bangani I had just thought of her and when I lifted my head—there she was, walking past me. I couldn’t believe it! It felt like fate. I quickly stepped outside, said a little prayer, and returned determined.
I waited for the right moment and approached her, introducing myself, sharing my work in Cape Town communities, and of course, highlighting my WOSSO Fellowship. Then, I took a deep breath and asked if she would agree to an interview.
Without hesitation, she smiled and said, “Sure, let’s walk outside and do it.” Just like that! I was both ecstatic and nervous, trying to keep my composure as I walked alongside this powerhouse of a woman. She took her time, even freshening up her makeup before we began.
And then, despite the noise and commotion around us, she granted me that interview—one of the most surreal moments of my life. Advocate Thando was patient, generous, and intentional with every word she spoke. She didn’t rush; she made me feel seen and heard. That, to me, is the mark of true greatness.
It was also on this day, that I truly felt the power of sisterhood—the kind of sisterhood that the WOSSO Fellowship strives to nurture. Ulemu Kanyongolo and Tlotlo Mogware were more than just my fellow fellows; they were my pillars of support.
They stood patiently as I waited and conducted my interview with Advocate Thando, never rushing me, never showing a hint of frustration. I could see Ulemu’s arm getting tired from holding the phone, but like a true sister, she maintained her composure, determined to capture every moment.
Tlotlo’s quiet reassurance and unwavering presence reminded me that in this journey of advocacy, we are never alone. WOSSO is more than a program—it’s a movement that builds not only strong advocates but also lifelong bonds of sisterhood.
A special thank you to my incredible WOSSO sisters, Ulemu, my sister, you always have my back when it comes to content creation—you know my struggles with my very ancient phone that takes horrible pictures! I appreciate you more than words can say. Zikomo asisi, Ambuye akudalitseni.
And Tlotlo, my sister, thank you for always being there for me and accepting me for my crazy self. Your unwavering support means the world to me. Kealeboga mogwera waka.
To AfWID, WOSSO, and Gender Links, thank you for creating these powerful spaces where young women like me get to be in the presence of such remarkable leaders. These moments are life-changing.
To Advocate Thando Gumede—your work, your presence, and your spirit inspire me beyond measure. Thank you for your time, your wisdom, and your Ubuntu.
Together, we stand!
Ammaaaaandlaaaaaa!!!!!!!
