Community empowered with gender-based violence education
The organisation’s free course taught young people and adults how to identify abuse, support survivors, and promote respect in relationships.
Tshegofatsa Rona Welfare and Community Organisation hosted a free course on August 8 to raise awareness and help prevent gender-based violence (GBV).
Founder Cynthia Dinalane said the initiative was introduced because the community needed more knowledge about GBV, how to prevent it, and how to educate their children at home.
The organisation not only raises awareness but also supports survivors through psychosocial assistance, skills training and care aimed at restoring self-esteem. Both young people and adults attended the course.
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The main speaker, Zizipho Mtwesi from Father A Nation, led discussions on the different forms of abuse, including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological and economic.
For many participants, the concept of economic abuse was new. Mtwesi emphasised the importance of financial independence in preventing this form of control.
He also addressed the traditional and evolving roles of men and women in society, sparking dialogue on the challenges of single parenting and how different family structures influence children.
He urged young people to choose supportive circles of friends.
“When a friend is wrong, we should hold them accountable. It shows care and support,” he said.
An attendee, Voldie Ngwe, highlighted the importance of strong family relationships.
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“Children should feel safe to speak openly without fear of being shouted at. Good parenting and upbringing make a difference. Children should be respectful and treat people with respect,” she said.
Gender-based violence activist Chris Maseko encouraged participants to recognise red flags in relationships.
“Signs are always there. The people close to us show good or bad behaviour,” he said.
GBV survivor Tshepang Musi shared her story of surviving an assault by her partner.
Photo: Lerato Mokonyane.
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“Courses like this will help me spread the word on how to curb this monster called GBV. Normally, I advise people to speak up, but now I believe I will do more since I received more information today,” she said. She added that had she attended a course like this earlier, she might never have become a victim.
Eighteen-year-old Sibusiso Nduku said the event taught him a valuable lesson.
“I learnt to respect women and never raise a hand to anyone. It is better to have knowledge and practise this while we are still young.”
