Rachel and Siya Kolisi marked South Africa’s Women’s Day in different but equally meaningful ways, using their platforms to highlight themes of personal growth, resilience, freedom and the contribution of women to society.
The former couple shared separate messages on social media, with Rachel reflecting on her personal journey and Siya paying tribute to the generations of South African women who helped shape the country.
Rachel Kolisi reflects on finding herself
Rachel Kolisi used Women’s Day to reflect on her journey of rebuilding and discovering her identity following the end of her marriage.
Through a motivational social media video, Rachel highlighted different chapters of her life, including her fitness journey, travels, public speaking engagements and the Falling Forward roadshow.
Her message focused on resilience and the process of moving forward after difficult personal experiences.
Rather than dwelling on the past, the post presented a picture of a woman embracing independence, personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.
Rachel’s Falling Forward project has also become an important part of her public journey, allowing her to share lessons from her experiences while encouraging others to keep moving forward despite setbacks.
Siya Kolisi honours South African women
Meanwhile, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi took a more historical approach to his Women’s Day message.
Sharing a photograph featuring a Winnie Mandela memorial, Kolisi reflected on the sacrifices made by South African women throughout the country’s history.
His message highlighted the courage of women who fought for freedom and contributed to building the South Africa inherited by younger generations.
The rugby star also used the occasion to remind people not to overlook the voices, strength and contributions of women.
Two messages, one powerful theme
Although Rachel and Siya approached Women’s Day from very different perspectives, both messages centred on strength and resilience.
Rachel’s post focused on personal freedom and rebuilding, while Siya’s message looked at the broader historical role of women in South Africa.
Their separate posts offered two perspectives on what Women’s Day can represent: the courage to overcome personal challenges and the responsibility to remember those who fought for a better future.
South Africa celebrates Women’s Day on 9 August each year, commemorating the historic 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, when thousands of women protested against apartheid pass laws.
