Khuluma Freight Services hosts GBV awareness event

Khuluma Freight Services staff members gathered for a Lunch with Purpose gender-based violence (GBV) awareness event at the company’s offices at the Denel Aviation Campus in Kempton Park on September 17.

The event aimed to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV), promote unity and create a safe space for women to share their experiences and support one another.

“The main purpose was to stand together against violence, honour the women who have lost their lives to GBV, and reaffirm the importance of protecting the dignity, safety and rights of women in our workplaces and communities,” said Hasa Baloyi, consultant and project coordinator at Khuluma Freight Services.

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The programme included discussions on GBV and its impact on women, families and communities, as well as the importance of speaking out against abuse and breaking the silence surrounding violence.

Staff also discussed women’s safety, dignity and empowerment, the role of workplaces and communities in creating safe and supportive environments, and ways of remembering and honouring women who have lost their lives to GBV.

Khuluma Freight Services managing director Saul Maphanga shared a written message with staff, expressing the organisation’s solidarity with women affected by GBV and reinforcing the importance of respect, safety and standing together against violence.

Motivational speaker Joe Mkhombo also delivered a message encouraging staff to unite against GBV, support one another and take a stand for the safety and dignity of women.

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The programme included a 5km solidarity walk around the Denel Aviation Campus, demonstrating unity and raising awareness about GBV.

Staff also observed a moment of silence in remembrance of women who have lost their lives to GBV, while women were given an opportunity to share their thoughts and reflect on the importance of ending violence.

The programme further included a collective prayer for victims of GBV, their families and everyone affected by violence, followed by lunch and fellowship among colleagues. Personal protection packages were also presented to women as a gesture of care and support.

“We hoped that attendees would leave with a stronger understanding of GBV and the importance of standing together to end violence against women,” Baloyi said.

“We wanted women to feel heard, valued and supported, while encouraging all staff members to take responsibility for creating safer workplaces, homes and communities.”

According to Khuluma Freight Services, the 5km solidarity walk demonstrated that combating GBV requires collective action and that acts of solidarity can contribute to a greater cause.

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The company also emphasised that GBV is not only a women’s issue, but a societal issue requiring everyone’s involvement.

The Lunch with Purpose event provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations, reflection, prayer and solidarity among colleagues, while the walk served as a visible demonstration of the company’s commitment to raising awareness and standing against GBV.

“The event strengthened the message that women deserve to live and work in environments free from violence, fear and discrimination,” Baloyi said. “Khuluma Freight Services remains committed to promoting awareness, encouraging open dialogue and fostering a workplace culture built on respect, dignity and safety.”

She added that the event highlighted the importance of continuing GBV awareness initiatives and encouraging employees to support one another and contribute to safer communities.