Empowering victims of domestic abuse through fitness & fashion | London Daily News

A former victim of domestic abuse has launched an initiative to empower fellow survivors as they rebuild their lives. Charlene Simba, 37, launched Grace Simba Community Village to offer a resource for abuse survivors to work towards a brighter future – and she has already partnered with A-List brands including Charlotte Tilbury, Gaucho and The Fold.

Women who have escaped abusive relationships are directed to GSCV where they can find free resources including mentorship, education advice, and fitness and fashion classes, to help boost self-esteem and regain a sense of identity.

Entirely not-for-profit, GSCV was borne from a passion to empower women who find themselves in seemingly helpless situations.

Charlene said:

“At the age of 22 I was in a dead end job with no prospects, one GCSE to my name and a four-month old baby to feed and keep safe. I know what despair feels like, I have been there, and I want other women in that situation to know there is hope, there is a future, and they can be happy.”

After a two year relationship culminating in a police intervention when Charlene was strangled by her ex-partner and had her fingers broken, she felt she had nowhere to turn. But a support network of friends and family enabled Charlene to return to education, to earn enough to  rent a safe home for her and her daughter, and for her to rebuild her life.

Now a first class honours law graduate, Consultant Business Analyst and homeowner, Charlene runs GSCV and has so far helped more than 30 women on their journey to independence after abuse. She has partnered with the likes of The Fold, London, who have run style classes for victims to boost self-esteem, perfume afternoons as a respite for former victims rebuilding their lives, and even boxing sessions at Queen Bee Boxing.

High end restaurant chain Gaucho has hosted dinners for GSVC participants, many of whom have been caught in an endless cycle of abuse and depression.

Charlene says:

“By giving women a few hours to truly be themselves, to smile and laugh and see that they can indeed be happy again, we are providing hope to people who felt they had none. Many of the women who come to us have children and are unable to take any time for themselves. They may feel guilty, or have no self esteem. Counselling and practical support are essential, but recovery is a holistic thing and by using fitness and fashion to treat these brave women, we are able to offer a rainbow after the most terrible storm.”

One attendee at a Gaucho dinner told Charlene:

“I felt a little bit apprehensive about the brunch as I did not know the other ladies and due to being isolated and having low self esteem, I was also anxious about going to a fancy restaurant as I did not feel like I belonged there. The moment I was greeted I felt at home, they were kind and their smiles made me feel welcome. I had a wonderful time and met amazing women, we laughed and ate delicious food. I left the event feeling empowered. Thank you.”

Another said:

“Being a survivor this brunch meant so much to me. I felt that in a way I had lost a bit of me. Just sitting on the train heading to the event and feeling excited made me feel like I had got a bit of my old self back. My experience as a victim of domestic abuse had left me feeling lonely and isolated at times. No one can understand, unless they have lived through it themselves. To be in such lovely surroundings as Gaucho made the day extra special. It’s a day I will never forget, and I walked away feeling stronger, less alone and more positive.”

For more information on GSCV or to find out more about partnering and supporting the initiative, please email  admin@gracesimba.org