Women’s Empowerment Workshop: Health, Ikigai & Entrepreneurship

On the 22nd August 2025, CATCH Trust hosted a Women’s Empowerment Workshop, bringing together young participants to grow, learn, and take charge of their futures. The afternoon was built around two powerful development pathways: Health & Wellness Skills and Professional & Digital Skills.

Health & Wellness Skills Pathway

Led by Mbali Jonas, this pathway focused on Sexual and Reproductive Health, specifically looking at STI’s and prevention. Too often, conversations around sexual health are clouded by stigma and silence. Mbali created a safe and open space where participants could ask questions, share experiences, and learn how to make informed choices.

The discussion empowered young women with knowledge to protect themselves, care for their health, and break cycles of misinformation. By prioritizing awareness and prevention, participants left with the confidence to take ownership of their health and well-being.

Professional & Digital Skills Pathway

Facilitated by Zintle Novazi, this pathway focused on unlocking potential and shaping futures. The session began with the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese framework for discovering purpose by connecting passion, skills, values, and opportunities. Participants reflected on what drives them and how they can align this with future careers.

From there, Zintle guided them through the process of “hatching” entrepreneurial ventures—taking ideas from concept to business plan to funding opportunities. This hands-on approach gave participants not just inspiration, but also practical tools to begin their journey as innovators and change-makers.

Building Empowered Futures

By weaving together health, wellness, and professional growth, the workshop created a holistic learning experience. Empowerment is not one-dimensional—it’s about equipping women with the knowledge to safeguard their health, and the skills to shape their economic futures.