Our Vision
Every abused woman has a chance to heal and gain confidence in order to live a purposeful life with love and dignity.
Every abused woman has a chance to heal and gain confidence in order to live a purposeful life with love and dignity.
We help abused women and their children in South Africa by providing safe accommodation, practical care, counselling and life skills to empower and reintegrate them into the community as confident members of the society.
The journey of Ndawo Yakho began in 1992. A seed of compassion was sown as women from Baptist Church of South Africa (BCSA) came together, pooling their resources and dreams to create a sanctuary for those in need. This shelter, born from a ministry of sisterhood, stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for women by women.
United by the conviction that every woman deserved an opportunity for safety and a brighter future, these women pooled their resources. In 1996, their aspirations materialized into reality when the American Baptist Churches (ABC) extended a helping hand to acquire a shelter in the heart of Johannesburg. Aptly named Ndawo Yakho, translating to "Your place" in Zulu, this refuge stood as a testament to the transformative influence of compassion and united efforts.
During its early years, Ndawo Yakho operated as a vital refuge, offering a protective haven for abused women and their children. The stays ranged from 2 to 4 days, providing a crucial respite from the turmoil they faced. The shelter became a symbol of resilience and solidarity, a place where the spirit of sisterhood flourished amidst adversity.
In 2014, Ndawo Yakho underwent a transformative period marked by changes in management and strategy. Fueled by the unwavering commitment to better serve their community, the Emergency House evolved into a Shelter with the capacity to offer sustained support over three months. This shift aimed not only to address immediate crises but also to empower women with the tools and resources needed to rebuild their lives. Partnering with European Baptist Mission International (EBMI), Ndawo Yakho strengthened its outreach and capabilities, working collaboratively to provide comprehensive support and make a positive impact on the ministry.
Ndawo Yakho stands as a beacon of hope, guided by Christian values and registered as a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO No.: 150-675). Every day, the dedicated team at Ndawo Yakho works tirelessly to create an environment where women find solace, strength, and a pathway to a brighter future. The story of Ndawo Yakho is one of triumph over adversity, a testament to the transformative power of compassion and collective action. As you explore this narrative, may it inspire you to believe in the possibility of positive change, even in the face of the darkest challenges. Ndawo Yakho is more than a shelter; it is a sanctuary where women rediscover their resilience, reclaim their dignity, and rewrite their stories with newfound strength.
Administrator
Ensuring a robust response and support system for survivors of gender-based violence, the Administrator plays a crucial role in coordinating, planning, and advocating within the GBV response framework. She is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of survivors and overseeing the smooth operations of the shelter.
House Mother
As the heart of the shelter, the House Mother is the first point of contact, combining coordination and day-to-day procedures. Responsible for the building's maintenance and the welfare of victims, the House Mother serves with compassion, professionalism, and a commitment that goes beyond a job – it's a service to those in need.
Volunteers - Social Worker
Building trust and compassion, the Social Worker meets with clients, identifies issues, and implements solutions such as relocation, therapy, or employment assistance. Conducting assessments and developing plans to help clients achieve their goals are key aspects of their role.
Volunteers - Pastor and Victims Support
Offering support, including skills development programs, the Pastor and Victims Support aims to facilitate effective program management according to the shelter's standards, contributing to the overall well-being of the individuals involved.
Board Members
Comprising of dedicated volunteers, our Board Members understand the ethos of serving in all aspects of Ndawo Yakho. They serve with compassion, professionalism, and sacrifice, holding the principal responsibility for fulfilling the organization's mission. As the ultimate legal authority, they provide governance, represent the organization to the community, and ensure accountability for its operations.