Women’s Day Through My Eyes
More than just a celebration
By Varsha Pillay
Facility Manager – Mondia Health Umhlanga
Women’s Day in South Africa is more than just a celebration. Or many women like me, it is a moment of reflection, gratitude and renewed courage. Given my journey, both personally and professionally, this day carries a significance that goes far beyond social media posts and fancy speeches.
Annually, on the 9th of August we commemorate Women’s Day in honour of women who marched to the Union Buildings in 1956 protesting against past laws – paving the way for generations of women to dream bigger, speak louder and stand taller.
For me, Women’s Day is not just about celebrating achievements. It is about acknowledging resilience.
It is about the women who wake up every morning carrying silent burdens while still showing up. Showing up for their families, their communities and their work. It is about every single mother who works tirelessly to provide for her children. It is about the grandmother who became a parent all over again. It is about the woman silently fighting anxiety, depression, or self-doubt while still managing to smile.
It is also about SURVIVORS.
As someone who has faced a few trials myself and working at a mental health facility, I know that untold stories remain behind many doors – that may never be told. Stories of fear, heartbreak, survival and ultimately courage. To me, Women’s Day is a reminder that every woman deserves to feel safe, valued, respected and heard.
Too often, society celebrates strong women without asking what made them strong in the first place.
Strength is sometimes born from pain and hardships.
Many women carry scars that are not visible. That have endured betrayal, abuse, loss, discrimination and disappointments. Yet somehow, they continue to rise. Not because they are unaffected by their hardships – but because they refuse to let that hardship define them.
That is the spirit I celebrate on Women’s Day.
In my professional life, I have the privilege of working alongside remarkable women who demonstrate leadership, compassion and determination every day. I see women balancing careers, family responsibilities, personal challenges and societal expectations whilst continuing to strive for excellence. Their strength is a constant inspiration to me.
My passion for mental health has taught me that creating spaces where women can be vulnerable without judgement. Spaces where they seek help without shame. Spaces where they can admit they are struggling and still be seen as capable, valuable and worthy.
As I reflect on my own journey, I recognise the women who helped shape me. The women who encouraged me when I doubted myself. The women who stood beside me during difficult times – helping me fix my crown without tearing it down. The women who showed me that resilience and kindness can exist together. Their influence remains one of my greatest gifts.
Whether you are thriving or surviving today, never underestimate the power of your journey. Every challenge you have overcome is evidence of courage and every positive step forward is worth celebrating.
You are stronger than you realise – Your story matters – Your voice matters – Your dreams matter.
“The strongest women are not those who have never been broken, but those who have gathered their broken pieces and rebuilt themselves into someone even stronger” Author Unknown.
Happy Women’s Day – May we continue to rise, support each other and create a future where every woman has the freedom to thrive.
