In a society where women are often pressured to have doll-like features and flawless skin, for them to be considered ‘attractive’ and ‘sexy’, a group of young women (who understand the insecurities that come with changes in their bodies after giving birth) have decided to celebrate their perfect imperfections in a beautiful and unique way.

Embracing their post baby bodies, while also encouraging other mothers to do the same, is a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) based in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, called Imperfect Moms Foundation (IMF).

Founded by Onthatile Modise, after experiencing challenges as a new mom in 2016, the goal of the organisation is to give young mothers support by motivating and encouraging them to be independent, and most importantly, to feel good about themselves and their bodies. It is for this reason that the organisation is hosting a series of photoshoots which began this past Saturday, the 25th of May.

Speaking passionately about the ongoing shoots, Modise urges all ’Yummy Mummies’ to take part in this initiative and says that mothers can look forward to a fun-filled day with lots of networking. The theme is bare/semi-nude matching underwear, and a doek; to give a solid, uniform look.

“Many mothers feel insecure about their bodies after having their babies and the photoshoots are a great platform to empower them and also teach them that their bodies are beautiful and powerful because they have given life.”

Although the photoshoot is a more recent idea, it is not the only way in which women are encouraged to embrace their bodies. For Modise, IMF is a haven and platform where mothers can speak freely about what is happening in their lives; without being judged. That is the concept she conceived and presented to her friends, Ipeleng Mathiba, Anelin Manchidi, Elizabeth Ranthako and Makgomo Rathete who are now official board members of IMF.

“I knew that this was going to be a good initiative for us, women, to create something powerful together. We bash each other as women so often that we forget that we can build great empires just by listening to each other,” Modise says.

While young mothers face a lot of judgment from the world, Modise adds that it is most disturbing that the animosity is also within many circles or groups of young mothers. With that, IMF seeks to help women understand their common challenges and that mothers should therefore hold hands; help each other secure bright futures for their children.

IMF is also working on its first project with Tumelo Enhle Mother Care Centre, based in Norkem Park, as the facility is currently in need of cots, blankets, diapers, baby food and cleaning products to be fully operational.

Find IMF on Facebook: Imperfect Moms Foundation and on Instagram: imperfectmoms_foundation. To be a part of the photoshoot, RSVP via email: imperfectmomsfoundation@gmail.com 

The photoshoot package costs R250.00 and it includes a make-up artist. It will be continuous with 10 people in each shoot cycle.

~ Thabile Shange