Watch: Mark Fish Foundation raises awareness for GBV through sport

Using football as a platform to raise awareness for gender-based violence, the Mark Fish Foundation hosted a soccer tournament at the Ramaphosa Extension Five sports ground on December 2.

The community event, which was organised in conjunction with GoLocalProject and other organisations, attracted more than 50 young people from the area.

Kick-starting the proceedings for the day, local soccer clubs Liverpool Development and Khumalo FC went head to head in a friendly match. Meanwhile, girls were taught how to defend themselves when attacked, during a self-defence session with Gary Lewis from Never Tap Out.

Speaking to the Advertiser, Mark Fish said as part of the 16 Days of Activism for no Violence Against Women and Children campaign, they decided to use sport as an effective tool to empower the youth.

“This event aims to encourage men in the area to protect and care for women and children. We are teaching young men and women about respecting themselves as well as being an example to others. As a foundation, we got to know about this area through Lucky Muthelo, who coaches Liverpool Development. He is doing phenomenal things in the community, hence, we saw it best to also contribute and make a change in these young people’s lives,” Fish said.

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Food parcels, care packs and certificates were given to participants after the event. The visitors also planted six trees around the field during the event.

One of the participants, Phenyo Mashabathakga, said she enjoyed all the activities that were planned for them.

“More importantly, I learned useful tips about how to defend myself when I am being attacked,” said Mashabathakga.

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