Brakpan residents took a powerful stand against gender-based violence (GBV) on November 21, as the Bold and Brave Foundation led a protest aligned with the national G20 Women’s Shutdown.

Under the theme “Enough Is Enough,” the demonstration drew residents from all walks of life to the Brakpan Police Station, where they united in demanding justice, safety, and dignity for women, children and members of the LGBTQI+ community.

The protest started at 12:30 and formed part of the countrywide shutdown organised by Women for Change, which urged women and LGBTQI+ individuals to pause all paid and unpaid work, avoid spending, and participate in a symbolic 15-minute lie-down at noon on the day.

The action sought to highlight the ongoing national crisis of rape, femicide and violence in South Africa. With many dressed in black clothing, participants at the local protest braved the sweltering midday heat, raising placards and voices to denounce abuse.

The event drew support from local police, the Brakpan CPF, Harcourts, Light of Nation Youth Project, and community members.

Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and communication officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi told the Brakpan Herald she was encouraged by the strong turnout.

“I think it’s amazing that it has received this level of support. Most are ordinary residents, not affiliated to any organisation or group, and they wanted to be here today,” she said.

Purple ribbons were distributed to participants by Loretta Chiloane from Harcourts, who explained she wanted to show solidarity.

“There have been enough young girls killed,” she said.

Women of all ages, as well as men and children participated in the protest, which was the brainchild of the Bold and Brave Foundation.

The foundation was founded by three young Brakpan residents – Tumelo Buthelezi, Massy Hakutangwi and Brianna Mupaya.

Brianna was unable to attend due to school commitments. Tumelo and Massy, both aged 20, emphasised that the protest stood firmly with the G20 Women’s Shutdown.

“We stand with all victims. We are advocating for safety. We want government to know this is a national crisis and a disaster. Women are not being heard, and we are not stats that can be pushed aside. We deserve safety and security,” they told the Herald.

Among the men who participated was Brakpan CPF deputy chairperson Simon Mabuse, who said his participation was guided by Proverbs 31, which calls for the protection and honouring of women.

“Our job is to protect and show love to our women. But it has to be every day, not just one day,” he said.

The formal programme started with a prayer by Warrant Officer Maud Strydom, who placed a strong emphasis on ending GBV.

Tumelo then addressed the crowd, noting that South Africa remains one of the most dangerous places to live as a woman.

“GBV is not a woman’s issue. It is a human issue,” she said.

Brakpan SAPS station commander Brigadier Johanna Ngoma then shared her message with the attendees.

“GBVF is a challenge for all of us, and we mustn’t be silenced. As law enforcers, we have rules and regulations to ensure that GBV victims are protected,” she said.

She made particular mention of the Victim Friendly Room, a dedicated private space at the police station, which is tailored to provide a safer and sensitive environment for victims of gender-based violence and child abuse to give statements and receive support.

“If you see something, say something. Let us be the mouths for those who cannot speak for themselves,” she appealed.

“Let’s work together. If we keep quiet, we are condoning it. Thank you so much for gathering here, and ensuring that we are standing together, firmly so, against GBVF.”

She also thanked the stakeholders, including the CPF and security companies. Escorted by a vehicle patrol, the crowd finally took to the streets and marched from Gardiner Avenue to Station Road, and then on to Voortrekker Road.

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Singing and chanting as they went, they marched several blocks to Elliot Street and then proceeded back along Gardiner Avenue to return to the police station.

Beneath the shade of trees along the pavement outside the station, participants then joined a 15-minute lie-down.
Afterwards, Massy delivered a word of thanks, urging the community to report abuse. She also called on men to play an active role in protection.

“We are pleading with men to help protect us. Protect children at all cost. I beg of you,” she said. Massy described the protest as “beautiful” and also took a moment to honour those who have lost their lives to GBV.

“May they rest in peace,” she added.

The event concluded with a message from Brakpan SAPS Vispol support head Lieutenant Colonel Pearl van Staad.

“It takes a woman to be brave. Let’s carry this braveness and take it a step further to stop GBV,” she said.

The Bold and Brave Foundation is encouraging young women to join their initiative. For more information, call 071 599 2562, 063 729 5197, 067 710 3358, or email boldandbravefoundation@gmail.com

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