On Friday, 5 August, Jes Foord came to give a lecture to the St Anne's girls. Well-known in the area for her traumatic story, Jes was gang raped in front of her father while they were walking their dogs near Shongweni Dam in 2008. An informative talk on the best ways for young women to protect themselves, as well as conveying the important message that there is life after rape, the lecture was deeply inspirational for the girls. Jes has turned her devastating story into one of hope, teaching an important lesson in the strength of spirit combined with the right attitude in achieving success and overcoming pain and difficulties. Her candid recollection of the events, together with her young age made her a figure the girls could easily relate to, and the impact of the message was that much stronger.
Jes has set up the Jes Foord Foundation, aimed at raising awareness and providing support to survivors of rape and abuse.
News submitted and photograph supplied.