WIZO teaches self-defence to inner-city girls

The Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO) Johannesburg on 18 November partnered with Michele Engelberg, the founder of Keep Safe Self-Defence Workshops, to give a workshop to teenage girls at the Dlala Nje Community Centre at Ponte in Berea, Johannesburg.

As an organisation run by and in support of women, WIZO understands the need to combat the scourge of gender-based violence in any way it can, including equipping girls with the tools to help them escape from potentially dangerous situations.

Andrea Wainer of WIZO Johannesburg told the girls about the work WIZO does in Israel to help girls just like them in communities in Israel that encompass all religions and ethnic groups.

Engelberg taught the girls techniques to protect themselves in any situation in which they feel unsafe. They had a lot of fun trying out the moves demonstrated. Engelberg was engaging, maintaining the interest of the large group, and answering questions. Each girl went home feeling a little more confident and empowered.