Childfree and thriving

As society evolves, so too does the narrative of womanhood. Founder of Childfree by Choice SA, Reneiloe Matlaisane is redefining what it means to thrive as a woman in today's world. She is building a movement that celebrates autonomy, wellness and possibility, a space where women can unapologetically choose their own paths and live their truth without judgment.

- THOBEKA PHANYEKO

Reneiloe's journey didn't start with knowing she didn't want kids. "It began at 15, when I decided I would never have children outside of marriage, partly due to my experience growing up in a singleparent household. Over time, I realised it wasn't about the right conditions but that I truly didn't want to be a mother at all. I wanted to live my own life and prioritise my own healing and success, which didn't involve children."

This decision wasn't without its challenges. “The stigma I faced made me question myself. The most common question was 'When are you having kids?' Or 'Who will look after you when you're older?' But a turning point came when I discovered the term 'childfree' and realised that this was a choice, not a deficiency. There was now a term for women like me, and it felt like freedom.”

She wanted to create a space where women like herself could celebrate their autonomy and live unapologetically. “That's why I founded Childfree by Choice SA. It's about creating a community where women can choose their own path without needing to justify it.”

How autonomy, wellness and possibility shaped her vision