“So amazing how this world was made, I wonder if God is a woman. The gift of life astounds me to this day. Give it up for the woman, oh, that woman. With a smile and a style, she’ll protect you like a child, that’s a woman.”

These powerful lyrics from Shaggy’s Strength of a Woman perfectly captured the spirit of the Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus’ Women’s Month celebration, which was wrapped in gratitude and admiration.

The venue was alive with colour: vibrant flowers brightened the space, and a soft pink backdrop invited smiles and photographs. Women from across the faculty gathered not only to mark the occasion but also to share in the warmth of community.

Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean for community engagement, business development and stakeholder relations, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome. Prof Dumi Moyo, executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities, who also closed the celebration, reflected on women’s strength and compassion, remarking: “Without women, it would be a chaotic world.” He noted how Shaggy’s song so aptly echoed the essence of the day.

The keynote address by Prof Carina Mels centred on the power of authenticity. She reminded everyone that life is a continuous journey of learning and growth, sharing her own experiences of vulnerability and overwhelm. These moments, she explained, taught her that real transformation in institutions and in lives begins not with perfection or competition, but with authenticity and connection. She encouraged the audience to choose community over comparison and support over rivalry.

True to the faculty’s commitment to communication, empathy and human connection, the celebration was filled with laughter, conversation and genuine togetherness. Guests enjoyed delicious food, captured memories in photos, and left with lighter hearts and renewed inspiration.

Women from across the faculty gathered not only to mark the occasion.