Seven years later, the Woman Zone Club in the CBD has turned into a “full-on” movement for women.
The club was established in 2012 to create a platform for women to meet and read together, sharing books at The Women’s Library at Artscape.
It is now a place of relaxation for up to 30 women of all ages and diverse cultural groups who have become regulars of the club every second Saturday of the month from 14:00.
The club’s executive director, Nancy Richards, says it all started as a simple initiative for women to share each other’s stories. Over the years the club has seen local women publishing books, and they recently added a new feature that is hosting a female author to talk about their latest title at the monthly gatherings.
The most recent guest was Sally Andrew, the author of the Tannie Maria Mystery series – Death on the Limpopo on Saturday 12 October. The next one will be Tracey Farren, the author of The Book of Malachi on Saturday 9 November.
A member, Theresa Smith, adds that they also host guided walks when they have a chance.
“As we walk, we talk and share our different perspectives and experiences of the city,” she said. She added that they have more walks in the pipeline. “So watch this space,” she says.
The club also hosts a Story Café which includes panel discussions, writing and poetry workshops, book launches and other events. Membership is free but booking seats to the gatherings is essential.
