Survivors share their stories of GBV
“As we reflect during the 16 Days of Activism, let us honour these survivors by taking action.
In light of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, Boksburg Advertiser visited Mercy Haven, a shelter dedicated to supporting abused women and children.
The shelter, which provides a safe haven for those escaping abusive situations also offers the survivors a chance to heal and rebuild their lives.
Survivors’ voices:
Each woman at the shelter carries scars: some visible, others buried deep. Their courage to speak out illuminates the harsh reality of GBV and their determination to survive.
• Amanda (not her real name) went to the shelter after years of torment by her boyfriend.
“He beat me almost every day, especially when he was drunk. I lost everything – my job, my freedom, and my hope. I finally decided I had enough and came here to start over,” she said, her voice trembling but firm.
• Barbra (not her real name) escaped a nightmare of relentless abuse in her marriage.
“He accused me of cheating and choked me with an extension cord. He raped me repeatedly, even in front of our children.
“For years, I felt trapped because I had no job, no way out. But last week, I finally left with plans of filing for divorce,” she shared, tears streaming down her face.
Another woman revealed the torment inflicted by her own brother.
“After our mother died, he became uncontrollable.
“He beat me for speaking to men and I later found out he was using drugs. I feared for my life until I found refuge at Mercy Haven,” she said quietly.
Another survivor shared her traumatic experience of an attack while walking home one night.
“It was late and I noticed a group of people following me.
“One of them, which was a man, approached me and started talking to me. I did not engage with him. He then suddenly slapped me and assaulted me.
“Fortunately, security guards nearby saw what was happening, as there were cameras in the area, and they intervened.
“They called the police, but to my shock, they dismissed it as ‘not their matter.’
“I felt broken and terrified and turned to alcohol to cope until a friend helped me find my way to this shelter,” she recounted.
• Neldah (also not her real name) sought help after enduring years of abuse from her boyfriend.
“It started when I began looking for work. He couldn’t handle my independence and accused me of cheating.
“Even after I switched to working from home, the abuse continued. This shelter saved me,” she said.
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A place of healing
For these women, Mercy Haven is more than a shelter, it’s a place to heal and rediscover themselves.
“We’ve found a family here. We lean on each other, rebuild our strength, and find hope,” one resident said.
Maria Pereira, centre manager at Mercy Haven, highlighted the broader challenge of combating GBV.
“Abuse often stems from power and control, especially when women try to assert their independence.
“Financial dependency traps many in abusive relationships, and even when cases are opened, they’re often withdrawn out of fear or pressure. Change begins with empowerment,” she explained.
This year alone, Mercy Haven has offered refuge to 140 women, each with a story of courage and survival.
Break the silence
Pereira said the stories here are not isolated, they reflect a national crisis.
“GBV doesn’t discriminate; it infiltrates homes, relationships, and communities, leaving devastation in its wake.
“As we reflect during the 16 Days of Activism, let us honour these survivors by taking action. Speak out against GBV in your community. Support organisations that provide critical refuge and resources.
“Advocate for stronger protection for survivors and harsher consequences for perpetrators.
“The fight against GBV demands collective action. Together, we can create a future where no woman or child must endure such pain—where hope replaces fear, and courage transforms into empowerment.
“For survivors, the journey for healing may be long but possible. Their voices echo a powerful truth: survival is an act of defiance, and healing is an act of hope. Let us listen, support and act,” said Pereira.
For more information, contact Maria on 074 141 7603.
Also Read: Children’s report for plan on GBV, femicide launched in Benoni
