'Womxn: Working' shed light on the struggles of South African sex workers

A NEW documentary, Womxn: Working, making its world premiere at the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, sheds urgent light on the ongoing struggle of sex workers in South Africa.

- THABO MAKWAKWA

Directed by Shanelle Jewnarain and produced by Tiny Mungwe and Mitchell Harper, the film chronicles a journey of activism spanning a decade of activism, resilience, and relentless advocacy for decriminalisation and justice.

The film, made possible by NFVF and KwaZulu-Natal Film and Tourism Authority, set against the backdrop of South Africa's alarming femicide crisis, Womxn: Working follows the lives of prominent sex work activists such as Nosipho Vidima, Dudu Dlamini, Constance Mathe, and the late Ruvimbo Tenga.

According to Sharlene Versfeld from Versfeld & Associates, these women are fighting in courtrooms and Parliament, leading protests, organising vigils, and supporting their communities from the ground up.

"Their stories are a testament to the courage and leadership of those fighting for their rights amidst systemic violence and societal stigma.”