We caught up with the founder of Walk In Freedom, Danielle Marais, to chat about her organisation, whose purpose is to empower women through entrepreneurship. What an inspiring operation!
Danielle enlightens us on why she started the organisation, as well as how you can get involved, by visiting www.walkinfreedom.co.za. See more of what this inspirational and humble babe had to say below…
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the organisation you founded, Walk In Freedom?
When I was a child, my family had to move out of South Africa due to a lack of job opportunities. Through entrepreneurship, my father was not only able to provide a new opportunity for us in South Africa – but created jobs for 12 other families as well. During COVID so many people lost their lives – but also their livelihoods.
Unemployment is at an all-time high. About 14 million South Africans share my childhood story of hopelessness due to lack of opportunity. Through my double major BCom Honours degree in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, and my Dad’s example, I am able to teach women the business skills they need for long term success. Since we are experiencing a lack of opportunities – we are taking it into our own hands to create them!
Each female-owned business we help establish will in turn employ someone spreading hope and opportunity to a whole family.
What prompted you to start a foundation for women?
There are two main reasons our organization focuses on creating female-owned businesses specifically:
1. GBV has had a direct impact on my life. I spent a lot of time on defining the root cause of GBV so that we can aim to eradicate it instead of treating the symptoms. I found that a main cause of GBV is unequal social and economical power between men and women. We as women are taking back our power and it starts with economic freedom. We empower women with the skills and resources they need to walk the path they choose in life.
2. 2 out of 3 South African children are raised without their father. This means that the future of South Africa rests on the backs of our women. Our children are our future. Who better to grow the true potential of our children than an empowered mother.
What is the best example of the way you’ve seen your organisation’s work make a difference?
We have heard so many heart-touching stories by going into less fortunate areas and just listening to what they need. Listening is the first step to making a meaningful difference. Working with these ladies and hearing hope return to their stories truly shows the impact the organization has! Anyone can give resources – but impacting a meaningful mind-shift change is truly empowering. We see how our ladies’ ideas and confidence grows!
How can one get involved with the organisation as well as donate?
All information about Walk In Freedom is available on www.WalkInFreedom.co.za
What advice do you have for all the upcoming and seasoned entrepreneurs out there?
Never give up. Failure is the best teacher. Learn from it, and try again. Because if you do not try, you have a 100% chance of not making it. South Africans also have a beautiful sense of community! Reach out and ask for help. Those who ask will receive. You will be surprised how willing people are to support you and share advice.
Thank you Danielle! Follow Walk in Freedom below ↯
