bn gWomen empowerment remains a key pillar of Laduma Hardware’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Strategy. The socio-economic landscape in South Africa shows that women form an important role in the buying decisions and management of households, as more and more households are headed by them.
On 11 and 12 March 2026, 15 women between the ages of 18 and 40 from various communities around iNsikazi gathered at Kabokweni Mega Store to participate in a Basic Painting Skills Training Programme, proudly co-sponsored by O’Grady’s Paint. The initiative came at an important time when practical skills development is essential in addressing South Africa’s high unemployment rate. It also took place during a significant period as the world celebrated International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, with the Government of South Africa celebrating the 2026 event under the theme “Give to Gain.”
The enthusiastic group of women arrived early at the store, eager to learn and excited about gaining a new skill that could open doors to new opportunities. They were warmly welcomed by Store Manager Ms. Angel Ngobeni, the Kabokweni Mega Store team, and representatives from the Laduma Hardware Training Department.
Also present were O’Grady’s Sales Representatives for Limpopo and Mpumalanga, Mr. Robert Mamabolo and Mr. Martinus van Aswegen, who also facilitated the training sessions.
Day 1: Learning the Basics
All participants had no previous knowledge or experience in painting. And as such, the training started on the shop floor by giving knowledge on the materials needed for painting – including paint, different types of paint brushes, masking tapes, and more. It then explored deeper into the theory, which consists of preparation of the wall or surface to be painted.
Participants were introduced to the different types of paints, paint brushes, masking tapes, and other essential materials used in painting projects. They also learned a key principle of professional painting: preparation which accounts for 90% of the process, while the actual painting makes up only 10%.
Practical Training at Khumbula (Phondweni) Community Centre
The training then moved to practical application at Khumbula (Phondweni) Community Centre, an After-Care facility that supports children from the Khumbula and Phondweni communities. The centre assists learners with homework, teaches traditional dances and indigenous games, and provides meals for the children. In addition, the Centre also serves as a venue for community meetings.
The Centre is managed by Gogo Thulisile Mndawe, who is a retired teacher with the support from dedicated community volunteers, making it a fitting beneficiary of this CSI initiative.
The trainees began with wall preparation, followed by applying the first and second coats of paint, allowing time for drying in between applications. They also learned how to paint window frames and window sills, starting with proper cleaning and preparation of the surfaces.
The trainers emphasised important professional techniques, such as painting from top to bottom to prevent paint drips and ensure a neat finish.
With favourable weather on the first day, each trainee was able to practise their skills on designated areas of the centre. The O’Grady’s team provided hands-on guidance, demonstrating how to hold the brush correctly, apply paint evenly, and avoid unnecessary paint wastage.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
For many of the participants, the training represented a new opportunity. Ms. Alucia Mnisi shared how this experience could change her life. Although she had completed her college studies, she had struggled to find employment for years.
She expressed appreciation to Laduma Hardware and O’Grady’s for providing the opportunity to gain practical painting skills that could help her generate income instead whilst waiting for job opportunities. “Even if I get a job, I have a new skill which is hands on, that I can always use to make extra income or save instead of hiring a Painter , I can do it by myself “she observed.
Day 2: Indoor Practical Training
On the second day, the training focused on painting the interior sections of the Community Centre. Despite heavy rain, the spirit of the Trainers and the Trainees was not dampened, the programme continued seamlessly indoors.
The Trainees once again showed great enthusiasm as they applied their new skill. Under the step-by-step guidance of the O’Grady’s team, a section of the centre was professionally painted by the trainees themselves.
While the Trainees were excited about their progress, Gogo Thulisile Mndawe was equally delighted as she watched the transformation of the centre through the work of the trainees. “By implication, a brighter wall for the Centre, projects a brighter future for our children” she noted thankfully.
Awarding of Certificates
The programme concluded with a Certificate Handing Ceremony held at Kabokweni Mega Store.
Mr. Martinus van Aswegen expressed his appreciation to Laduma Hardware for the opportunity to collaborate in giving back to the community. He noted that the trainees now possessed the basic skills required to undertake painting projects independently.
He also highlighted that many homes in the community remain unpainted, presenting potential opportunities for paint sales and paint jobs for the newly trained painters.
By the same token, Mr. Suresh Nair, Assistant Area Manager for Region 2 at Laduma Hardware, thanked O’Gradys for coming on board as a co-sponsor. He also encouraged the Trainees to form small teams of 3 to 4 members, establish a cooperative or small business so they could collectively pursue painting projects in their communities.
Empowering Women, Strengthening Communities
Ms. Angel Ngobeni expressed pride in being part of a project that empowers women in the community. She noted that the enthusiasm shown by the Trainees gave her confidence that the newly acquired skills would positively impact their lives.
She also appreciated the Training Department and Executive Management for coming with this initiative and was very happy that this training initiative had yielded positive spin offs by empowering women, whilst at the same time offered support to deserving community development institution like Khumbula (Phondweni) Community Centre. She concluded by making a commitment that the painting project for the Community Centre would be completed by a painter, courtesy of Kabokweni Mega Store and O ‘Gradys.
Ms. Rethabile Mohape , representing the Training Department echoed similar sentiments:
“The beauty of empowering women is that it creates a ripple effect — it empowers families, communities, and ultimately contributes to the economy.”
Ms. Pholiswa Zonke from Laduma Hardware Marketing Department also expressed appreciation for the strong partnership between Laduma Hardware and O’Grady’s, emphasising that meaningful impact is often achieved through collaboration.
“To make meaningful contributions, businesses must partner so that they can stretch the rand further and create greater impact in the communities they serve.”
A New Beginning
The 15 Trainees received certificates of completion, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
Ms. Thoko Ngwenyama of Phondweni, the oldest participant in the group, shared her excitement:
“Charity begins at home — I will start by painting my own house, I am very happy with my newly aquired painting skill”. She expressed appreciation for being selected and being given an opportunity to both Laduma Hardware and O Grady’s.
The youngest participant, Ms. Zinhle Maseko from New Skom, also expressed appreciation, saying she now feels confident to apply for painting opportunities at schools and government facilities in her community using her newly acquired skill and certificate.
The event ended on a high note as all trainees received certificates, promotional items, paint brushes and paint trays, equipping them with the start-up tools needed to begin their journey in painting.
A light meal was served to wrap up the joyous event.
A heartfelt thank you to O’Grady’s for partnering with Laduma Hardware in empowering women and uplifting the Kabokweni community.
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#WomenEmpowerment
