Ithemba Club: 25 years of women walking together in hope

Where it all began

In 2000, a small group of women in eSikebheni, Inanda, Durban found themselves navigating uncertain times. Some held part-time jobs, while others faced financial strain at home. What united them was a simple but powerful desire: to support one another and care for their families.

“At the time,” recalls Pretty Msomi, the Club’s Chairperson, “we didn’t even call it a stokvel.”

What began as a modest monthly grocery exchange soon grew into something meaningful. Each woman contributed what she could, and groceries rotated among members. The contributions were small, but the relief they brought was significant. It was never only about food; it was about dignity.

As more women in the community and within members’ workplaces showed interest in joining, the group realised the arrangement needed structure. On 11 August 2000, Ithemba Club was formally established. Office bearers were elected, transforming informal support into an organised circle.

Building structure, building trust

As membership expanded, so did commitment. Members agreed to contribute R500 per month, allowing for bulk grocery purchases at year-end. This reduced festive-season pressure, protected households from January shortages after back-to-school expenses and strengthened the Club’s collective buying power.

But beyond the financial benefits, something deeper was taking shape.

“Trust was forming. Friendships were strengthening. Unity was taking root, lives were being changed for the better,” says Pretty.

Today, the Club communicates via WhatsApp between meetings and gathers formally on the first weekend of every month. Members submit deposit slips to the Treasurer, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Meetings extend beyond finances. Guest speakers are invited, knowledge is shared, and women are empowered through learning and dialogue.

One unspoken rule guides the group: if a contribution is missed, the member takes responsibility for making up the shortfall.

“It’s about personal discipline balanced with understanding, because we all face unexpected challenges that affect our cash flow, but we must also take accountability,” explains Pretty.

When the flame burned bright

A significant turning point came when members introduced baking and craft activities to generate additional income. The proceeds were saved in an emergency fund.

That fund soon became a lifeline during family crises.

“Those were our wow moments,” says Pretty. “When we could step in and support each other when it mattered most, using our different skills to grow the Club and raise funds.”

In those moments, members realised that Ithemba Club had become more than a grocery savings group. It had become growth and sisterhood in action.

Weathering the storm

Like many stokvels and community clubs, Ithemba Club faced hardship during the COVID period. Some members lost their jobs, while others relocated after being unable to afford living in the area. Contributions became strained and uncertainty grew but the circle held.

Members introduced an “each one brings” drive to sustain the Club during difficult months. Adaptability and shared responsibility carried them forward. They learned that resilience grows stronger within community.

More than money

Over 25 years, Ithemba Club has become far more than a savings group. It has become a support system woven into the lives of its members.

Members stand together during times of bereavement, visiting families and offering support on funeral days. Funds from their emergency kitty help ease financial burdens during these moments.

They attend workshops and stokvel events, expanding their knowledge and strengthening their operations. While the Club has grown financially, its greatest growth has been personal.

Looking back

The journey has not been without challenges and setbacks. But it has also brought growth, confidence, new friendships, and new ideas.

Their greatest lesson? “Everyone needs someone. Life becomes easier when a woman walks the rough and narrow path alongside others who uplift, support, and teach one another,” adds Pretty.

Ithemba means hope. For 25 years, this Club has lived that meaning, proving that when women walk together, even the most difficult roads become lighter, and solutions emerge in times of hardship.

Embers of Wisdom