One aspect about setting up an action research project is the inevitable friendships that will be formed. Whether these friendships only materialize during the group sessions, or reach beyond the project and into daily life, a form of connectivity can be expected when one works closely together for a period of time. Especially when intimate stories and life experiences are shared and common goals are formulated.

For the past four months I have been meeting with this formidable group of women almost every Saturday. Some of them only came once, but most of them quickly incorporated the weekly sessions into their schedule. They narrated their life histories, introduced their children to each other, laughed until they couldn’t laugh anymore, and cried for their shared pain. It is wonderful to see how strangers can become close friends in such a short amount of time. What is even more remarkable is how they were willing to open up to each other and myself. We have grown accustomed to each other, know what is happening in each other lives, and are not afraid to ask, advice and assist. 


Without it being part of the official ‘project’, as the mothers like to call it, it is visible that forms of empowerment are already occurring as a result of the peer support. One mother has been assisted to demand an official diagnosis for her 5- year old daughter to be able to apply for a social grant. Others were urged to make regular follow-ups on their application for a state-subsidized wheelchair. And for some the group was just a safe platform to share their struggles with an abusive husband; and they found patient and empathetic listeners.

To be continued in 2016!