Men urged to use muscles to protect women
“We are using sports as a stimulant to promote the dialogue against gender-based violence.”
Duduza –The South African Classic Action Sport Unit (SACASU) hosted the Ekurhuleni Bodybuilding Interactive Championship (EBBIC) on Saturday at the Duduza Resource Centre.
The event was used to advocate against gender-based violence (GBV).
SACASU secretary Bheki Radebe has called for men to take a stand against GBV.
“We are using sports as a stimulant to promote the dialogue against GBV.
“As an organisation, we figured what better way than to use bodybuilders to show men must not use their muscularity to abuse but to protect.
“We are taking a firm stand that the cycle of violence against women and children must come to an end.”
Also read: Police speak out against GBV
He emphasised the importance of using their platforms to tackle societal matters through interacting with the community.
“We always use sports to interact and get involved within the community.
“This time, we chose to focus on GBV.
“We have invited gyms from all over the country, including our Kwatsaduza gyms.
“The campaign has been conducted as a competition,” he added.
Prizes were handed out on the day.
Representing Kwastsaduza were Linda Dlamini from Body Perfect Vision gym in Duduza, Junior Nkosi from Tsakani and Jonathan Hooper, owner of Jay Jay Classic Gym in Tsakani Extension 19.
Hooper placed third after competing against national champions.
Also read: NPOs want GBV to end in Kwa-Thema
“I believe I could have done better. This is not a position to be happy about; however, I have identified my shortcomings and plan to work on them.
“I fully support the initiative and hope it will help alleviate the stereotype or perception that bodybuilders use their muscles to intimidate, beat or break into people’s houses,” said Hooper.
Follow us on our social media platforms:
