A spirit of unity, reflection and encouragement hang in the air on Leisure Island on Saturday 21 March as 160 women from across Knysna and surrounding communities gathered for a faith walk hosted by Women with a Passion (WWAP).
Young and senior participants set off as one to celebrate resilience, uplift one another, and shine a light on the everyday emotional, social and spiritual challenges faced by women.
The scenic route began at Green Hole and wound its way through Leisure Island, concluding at Steenbok Nature Reserve. Each participant received a 'Wild Faith' sticker, along with a note tag on which to write their personal intention for the walk. As a symbolic act of surrender, these were placed in a 'God's to-do list' box.
Walkers were welcomed at the finish with refreshments, including a banana, cold drink and a snack bar.
A unifying passion
WWAP, a support group founded in Hornlee by Ma Rita Borcherds, who passed away in 2021, is dedicated to equipping, empowering and uniting women from all walks of life.
Through community outreach initiatives, national women's conferences, mentoring and youth programmes, the organisation plays an active role in strengthening individuals and communities.
The faith walk formed part of its broader mission to encourage women and create safe spaces for connection, reflection and support.
Organisers said the event was not only about physical activity, but also about acknowledging the daily pressures many women face and offering a moment of spiritual renewal and solidarity.
A group of 16 Rotary interactors from Knysna Senior Secondary School assisted along the route, guiding participants and ensuring they stayed on track.
The walk was described as exceptionally well organised, with proceedings starting punctually and supported by local authorities. Law enforcement officers, police members and first-aid personnel were on hand throughout the morning to ensure a safe and smooth event.
Words of thanks
Organisers extended their appreciation to all partners and contributors, including Knysna SuperSpar, Knysna Secondary School, Knysna Rotary Club, Jacks Bagels, Desiree Appels and Blitsdruk, for their generous support. Special thanks were also directed to LIRA and Steenbok Nature Reserve for their warm hospitality, as well as to Knysna Red Cross, the police, law enforcement officer Monica, and Cameron Jantjies for their commitment to safety.
"To each woman who prayed for us - this truly could not have happened without your support," organisers said.
The faith walk reflected the strength of community, the importance of support networks, and the power of women coming together with purpose, faith and compassion.
WWAP will host a national women's conference, titled Chosen, in Knysna for the first time from 7 to 9 August, with about 230 women from across South Africa expected to attend.
For more information, contact Maurita Borcherds Hendricks on 078 737 0809.
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