In a country where gender-based violence (GBV) still takes lives and silences voices, Fourways-based NPO Blessing Lives is standing tall, not just in words but in action.

This November, the organisation joined thousands across South Africa in the #PurpleForChange campaign.

This campaign, led by Women for Change, aims to honour survivors, remember victims, and demand lasting change. For Blessing Lives, the campaign goes beyond a show of support; it continues their mission to restore dignity, inspire healing, and empower women and children to rise again.

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“For us, purple is more than a colour, it’s a statement of strength, solidarity, and hope. It represents the voices that were silenced, the hearts that are healing, and the courage of every survivor who refuses to be defined by pain,” said Tiamara Andrew, the director of Blessing Lives.

The organisation has long been committed to restoring dignity among underprivileged girl learners through its outreach programmes and pad drives. The organisation’s work goes beyond awareness; it’s about rebuilding confidence and creating real change on the ground.

“When we saw the message behind #PurpleForChange, it truly resonated with us. Both movements are about restoring worth, giving women a voice, and reminding them that they are valued and protected.”

Beyond its online advocacy, Blessing Lives is actively supporting survivors of gender-based violence by providing food, clothing, and shelter to women and children in crisis.

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The organisation also plans to expand its services to include counselling and mentorship programmes, offering survivors safe spaces to begin their journey of healing.

However, Andrew believes that awareness alone is not enough; real accountability and reform are needed within the justice system.

“The system too often fails those who need protection the most. We need faster legal processes for GBV cases, specialised courts with trained prosecutors, and more funding for shelters. Women’s safety must be treated as a national emergency, not a campaign slogan.”

For Andrew, this mission is deeply personal. “My grandmother from my mum’s side was a victim of gender-based violence. She had no support, no shelter, and no voice. Her story is why I am determined to stand for women today.”

To survivors of GBV, Andrew offers a message of courage and comfort, “You are not alone. Even when healing feels impossible, your strength is still speaking. We see you, we believe you, and we honour your story.”

To support the #PurpleForChange, visit the Women for Change social media pages to sign the petition to help declare gender-based violence and femicide a national disaster.

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