Izibulo Gallagher puts the boy child first
Izibulo Gallagher is said to let parents in on programmes that tackle challenges faced by a boy child in Alexandra.
At a time when most empowerment programmes often focus on women, a noble and necessary cause given the challenges women continue to face, Izibulo Gallagher, an institution rooted in community support services, has chosen a different but equally important path of addressing the struggles of boys and young men.
It cannot be denied that Alexandra’s youth is confronted with a myriad of challenges. Some endure bullying, others lack psychosocial support, and many grapple with substance abuse. Recognising this, Tebello Mashele, who is the founder of Izibulo Gallagher, has, since its establishment, committed the institution to the holistic development of young men, nurturing every aspect of their lives.
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He acknowledged the fatherlessness crisis in South Africa, and that most children are raised by mothers who often have to strike an impeccable balance between providing for the family and teaching their sons how and what is to be a man. While he acknowledges the imperative role mothers play in their children’s lives, he believes a paternal side is important as well.
“A boy child cannot be solely raised by the maternal side; a paternal side is also of importance so that we can regulate their feelings on how they feel as men and what it means to be a man,” he said.
He said that when one looks at issues such as substance abuse, it affects boys mostly, and there is also a high rate of suicides among boys. He said this is telling—boys need all the help they can get.
At the high school level, violence remains concerningly high in Alexandra. Mashele said they also intend to address this issue.
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“People who are bullies often come from homes where they themselves were bullied. We deal with that,” Gallagher explained.
He emphasised that children are born pure, not as thugs, abusers, or bullies, but are shaped by the society in which they grow. And over time, habits and paradigms shift, which is why Izibulo Gallagher is determined to change how young men think and behave.
He said parents and guardians who want to set their sons on a new path of responsibility and growth are invited to attend Izibulo Gallagher’s event at Thusong Youth Centre on March 7, at 09:00.
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