31/08/2026
As Women’s Month draws to a close, the Genadendal Mission Museum proudly shines its final spotlight on Inge Theunissen—a proud Genaler and valued committee member of the Museum Friends Society.
Through her faith, resilience and love for her community, Inge reminds us that true strength lies in embracing who we are, honouring where we come from and continuing to grow with courage and purpose.
We invited Inge to share her inspiring journey:
🌿 What does being a woman mean to you, and how would you describe the woman you are becoming?
“To me, being a woman means being completely grateful for the woman God chose to create and for the woman my father, Mr Greg Smith, raised me to be. It means being comfortable with who I am while continuing to grow into the woman I believe I am meant to become according to God’s plan for my life.
“I am becoming more confident in my voice and continually striving to be a better wife to my amazing husband, Ranver Theunissen, as well as a better daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, friend, leader and mentor. Most importantly, I am learning to embrace my imperfections along the way.”
💐 Which women have inspired you most, and what lessons have you learned from them?
“All the women in my life have inspired me in some way—from my grandmother, sisters, nieces, aunts, friends and colleagues to the remarkable women of the Bible. They have taught me how to love, remain strong, be authentic, believe and stay true to myself.
“I would especially like to honour three women from my primary school years: Tannie Karen du Toit, the late teacher Estelle Groenewald and teacher Dalene Swart. Their care, guidance and the solid foundation they helped establish will always hold a special place in my heart.”
🕊️ What challenge have you faced as a young woman, and how did you find the strength to overcome it?
“On 2 February 1996, my mother passed away, and I had to face the challenge of growing up without her.
“I do not believe that we ever completely overcome the death of someone we love. With time, however, the loss becomes part of who we are, and we learn to live with it. Through the grace of God, my father, my husband, my biological and chosen sisters, and everyone who supported me, I found the strength to continue. For that, I will always be grateful.”
💛 What makes you proud to be a young woman from Genadendal?
“Ek is ’n trotse Genaler!
“I come from a community with a rich history and strong traditions—a community that taught me resilience, humility, kindness and the importance of looking out for one another. Despite the challenges our community faces, being from Genadendal brings me immense pride and joy. Genadendal has played an important role in shaping the woman I am today.”
✨ What message would you like to share with other young women?
“Be proud of who you are, where you come from and who you are becoming. Trust your journey, keep the faith and trust God’s plan for your life.
“Always be kind. Support and uplift one another as young women. If you fail, get up and try again. Remember: you are capable, your voice matters, and your value is not up for debate!”
As Women’s Month ends, may Inge’s story remind us that the influence, strength and value of women should be recognised every day. We proudly celebrate her faith, courage and commitment to preserving and supporting the heritage of Genadendal.
