Content creator, Mihlali Matokazi, originally from Mdantsane in East London, has confirmed the launch of The Synergy Circle, a movement where women come together to walk, practise yoga, have meaningful conversations, and empower one another.
The movement was born from her journey of assisting people on social media with career and mental wellness questions. It was officially launched in August 2025 in Cape Town, with its first event titled Move, Talk and Grow.
“I saw how many women were navigating life’s pressures — work, studies, motherhood, finances, and more — without a safe space to recharge, learn and connect. The goal was to create a circle where movement, conversation and growth come together,” Matokazi explained.
As someone who relies on walking or running for mental clarity, Matokazi emphasised that The Synergy Circle had to begin with movement as a key element for mental wellness before progressing to meaningful conversations.
“Our event brought together 120 young professionals, entrepreneurs and students. But the seeds were planted long before, in the many conversations and acts of support I have shared online,” she said.
Although face-to-face gatherings do not happen every day, Matokazi said the work continues through their Instagram page (@thesynergycirclemoves), where women seek support via direct messages.
“Sometimes it’s about preparing for an upcoming interview, where I personally help with practice. Other times, the support required is beyond my expertise, and I connect them with professionals in our network who can provide guidance.”
At in-person events, the Circle creates intentional spaces where women move together, share meals, and learn from specialists. These seasonal gatherings are designed to address real needs, such as their upcoming programme for final-year students writing exams. “We will empower them with exam preparation strategies, job-hunting tips, and career readiness skills,” Matokazi noted.
She highlighted that the impact of the Circle extends beyond in-person meetings to persistent online support and meaningful connections.
“I wanted to create a community where women could pause, breathe, and gather wisdom — not just to strengthen their own lives but to uplift their families, friends, and workplaces. The ripple effects are remarkable: a woman who manages her emotions at work or takes control of her finances can transform her family, workplace, and even her community,” she said.
Matokazi shared an example of the Circle’s impact, where an attendee used lessons from an emotional intelligence session to resolve a workplace conflict calmly and effectively.
She also discussed the unique challenges faced by women:
“Women juggle multiple responsibilities — careers, households, children, and sometimes extended family. Often, they’re expected to hold it all together without support. The Synergy Circle acknowledges these realities and creates content that speaks directly to them.”
At the Circle’s gatherings, different women — whether a young professional experiencing self-doubt at work, or a single mother balancing exams — find practical tools and encouragement tailored to their circumstances.
“This is not about excluding men; it’s about focusing on women so that their unique challenges and strengths get the attention they deserve,” she said.
Matokazi highlighted the common misconception of waiting for confidence or perfection.
“You don’t have to have it all figured out to join our circle. Come as you are, and you’ll leave with encouragement, practical resources, and connections that remind you that you’re not alone.”
Engagement on their social media platform is free, and they extend conversations through online meetings. For in-person events, ticket costs vary based on sponsorship. Their first event cost R850 due to limited sponsorship, but they are working to make future gatherings more affordable.
“Some women attended free, thanks to sponsorships from Friends of the Synergy Circle. For our upcoming final-year student programme, tickets will cost as little as R70, part of our effort to ensure accessibility,” she explained.
The Synergy Circle is international, uniting women of various ages and backgrounds. Participants include students in their 20s, young professionals, mothers balancing careers and family, and women in leadership roles who mentor others.
Matokazi revealed plans to expand the initiative to include children: “Many mothers have expressed that they want their kids to be part of an environment where confidence and kindness are nurtured from a young age. If children learn at an early stage what we’re only learning now as adults, we can set them up for a brighter future.”
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