Phethahatso Foundation bridges the gap between moms and sons
Mother–son relationships mended at Midrand dialogue.
With growing concern about the boy child being left behind, the Phethahatso Foundation hosted a Moms and Sons Dialogue in Midrand to help boys tackle their challenges and strengthen family bonds.
Founder Tebello Mosese said she has always believed in supporting boys’ mental and emotional well being, an area often overlooked. “The foundation of a boy child starts with his mother,” she explained. “In South Africa, many children, especially boys, are raised by single mothers.”
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Mosese established the foundation in 2016 and introduced the dialogue in 2025 to create a platform for mothers and sons to reconnect and address issues affecting their relationships.
This year’s event saw mothers and sons attend separate workshops. Mothers discussed the challenges of raising boys, guided by social workers and professionals, while the boys opened up about their struggles and hopes.
One participant, Zworinakela Sitabule, said the experience was liberating: “It’s a breath of fresh air to come speak here openly and come as myself, not trying to hide anything.” He added that mothers should overcome their fears of having serious conversations with their sons, as this remains a major barrier in their relationships.
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After the workshops, mothers and sons reunited to reflect and share ways to better interact with each other. Keynote speakers also shared personal experiences to inspire the boys and offer themselves as role models and support structures.
Zamokuhle Khumalo, founder of ZamoK Men’s Corner, said: “I wish this could introduce a platform where we are not just opening up young boys to speak or express themselves, but where we can also come together with a solution or an exit plan towards these challenges they have.”
The dialogue served as both a response to community concerns and a broader societal conversation, highlighting the importance of nurturing boys and empowering families to build stronger, healthier relationships.
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