IN the run up to Women's Day, Buffalo City Executive Mayor Zukisa Faku attended the second annual Leadership Development for Women in Government and State-Owned Enterprises conference.

The conference took place at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg from 20 to 22 July, with the aim of inspiring women in influential positions to motivate women in rural and disadvantage areas. It was also hoped that delegates would learn life-lessons on how to become exceptional leaders, and key tips on motivating those around them.

Faku introduced the concept of Adopt-A-Woman, which she labelled as a platform to get South African women to show interest in their less privileged counterparts and make efforts to assist them out of misery and lack of opportunities.

The conference was attended by over 200 top women in government and state-owned enterprises, and their stakeholders. Delegates came from diverse backgrounds and included politicians, senior government officials, businesswomen and women in the media.

Faku said adopting a woman meant that one had to be the other woman's ambassador in life, her guardian and official representative. "It comes from the heart and not your wallet."

The response of general society to the plight of underprivileged and less fortunate women was cold and uncaring, she added.

"Today, I invite every woman who is able to stand on her feet to take a second look at the underprivileged women that you meet on a daily basis. Tell yourself that, surely, there must be something that I can do for this unfortunate soul. And indeed, there is something that we can do as individuals."

Her presentation at the conference was a forerunner of next month's Women's Day celebrations. The national observance of the day, on 9 August, will take place in Buffalo City, at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane. President Jacob Zuma is expected to attend.

Women's Day marks the demonstration in 1956, when women from all races and walks of life marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against oppressive apartheid laws, particularly the law that women also carry pass books.

The historic march marked a turning point in the role of women in the struggle for freedom and in society in general.

This year is the 54th anniversary of the Women's March, and the theme of the day is United in Action to Make 2010 – 2020 a Decade for Women of Africa.

It will highlight the role of women as equal partners in the economic, social and cultural development of society and promote awareness of the significance of the theme and focus of Women's Day.

Women's Day will also showcase the advances the government has made towards women's empowerment and mobilise South Africans to unite to end the marginalisation of women and stop the abuse of women.