Using art to express emotions caused by abuse
Learners express themselves through art.
People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) and Agisanang Domestic Abuse Prevention and Training (Adapt) hosted a Teenz Alliance session to end sexual violence in schools at Zitikeni Secondary School on February 25. Project coordinator Sidwell Sehoana said they are working at 12 schools of which 10 are based in Tembisa and two are in Evaton.
“We are working with GEMs and BEMs learners, which stands for Girls and Boys Empowerment Movement. The project was initiated by the Department of Education. The aim is to ensure that they address social ills that are occurring in their respective schools. We have a strong partnership with the Department of Education while working with GEMs and BEMs, mainly focusing on sexual violence issues,” said Sehoana.
He said they have been implementing this project for the past three years. Learners went to two leadership camps where they were informed about sexual violence issues. When learners returned they were expected to initiate campaigns at their respective schools as a way of empowering their peers.
Sehoana said the learners were also engaging in creative art, which is another method that allows learners to express their emotions.
“We are using art as a tool for them to express themselves through painting, writing and drawing. That contributes as a medium of expression for their emotions. We are hoping and believing that when they are participating in the programme, the process of healing does take place,” said Sehoana.
Goitsemang Moreki (18) said as learners they have learned a lot and gained the courage to not to be afraid of breaking the silence and to help others who are being abused.
“We must not isolate but motivate and start support groups in schools and communities. No means no – let us stand against sexual violence,” said Moreki.
