22/07/2026
Nelson Mandela Day Seminar: Mothering Without a Map
In recognition of Nelson Mandela Day and the theme “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity,” a meaningful seminar was held to address an often-overlooked part of breaking cycles of poverty and inequality: the emotional and developmental well-being of mothers and children.
The seminar was hosted by Thandeka Yakobi, Founder of Phila Mental Clinic, who facilitated the session together with Amanda August from Egoqweni Empowerment Movement, focusing on Mothering Without a Map.
The seminar acknowledged that many mothers are raising children without having received the knowledge, guidance, and tools they need to understand themselves and their children. Many carry unresolved childhood experiences, and without awareness, these wounds and patterns can be repeated in the next generation.
The purpose was not to tell mothers how to parent, but to equip them with tools and skills they may not have received themselves. Mothers cannot always change what happened to them, but they can become aware of what they carry and make intentional choices about what they pass on.
Three important areas were highlighted:
1. Be Aware of the Environment
Children are constantly observing and absorbing what happens around them. The atmosphere at home, how adults communicate, conflict, words, and emotional climate all influence how children understand relationships, safety, love, and themselves. Mothers were encouraged to become conscious of the environment they create.
2. Be Aware of Yourself
Mothers were encouraged to understand their own experiences, emotions, triggers, and unresolved wounds. Without self-awareness, we may unknowingly react to our children from our own pain. The message was simple: Become aware, so that you do not unconsciously repeat.
3. Understand That a Child's Brain Makes Conclusions
When children do not receive explanations, reassurance, or answers to their questions, they may create their own conclusions about what is happening.
“Maybe Mommy doesn't love me.”
“Maybe it is my fault.”
“I am not important.”
These conclusions may not be true, but to the child, they can feel real.
Parents were therefore encouraged to intentionally make time to sit with their children, listen, answer their questions, communicate, and help them understand their experiences. When we leave children to figure everything out on their own, they may fill the gaps with conclusions that can shape how they see themselves and the world.
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