GBTSA honours fathers who stay present

Father’s Day provided an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the profound influence fathers and father figures have in shaping the lives of children and young people.

This year, as communities honoured fathers who help rebuild futures and support those facing adversity, attention was also given to the men who step into mentorship and caregiving roles, offering guidance, stability, compassion and encouragement when it is needed most. Through their consistent presence and commitment, they help restore hope, build resilience, nurture confidence and remind young people that their futures remain full of possibility.

Positive role models shaping futures

At Girls and Boys Town South Africa (GBTSA), which operates a campus in Kagiso/ Randfontein, Father’s Day served as a reminder of the important role fathers and father figures play in the lives of children and youth. The organisation sees firsthand how caring and committed male role models can help restore confidence, provide stability and create pathways to brighter futures.

According to CEO Karen Farred, this year’s Father’s Day theme, ‘Fathers: Guiding Strength and Building Futures’, strongly reflects the work carried out by the organisation. She said many of the children and young people supported through GBTSA programmes have experienced challenges such as family breakdown, neglect, trauma and loss. For them, positive adult role models often become valuable sources of encouragement and support.

Joseph Tshabalala, a child and youth care worker and family teacher at the Family Home for Boys, explained what motivates him in his role.

“It is knowing that every young person deserves someone who believes in them and supports them. Being present, consistent and caring can make a significant difference in their lives,” he said.

His colleague, Thabiso Lebitsa, a senior child and youth care worker supervising child and youth care workers at the Family Homes, echoed this sentiment.

“Fatherhood is being the adult who does not walk away, a man who remains present, shows respect and sets boundaries,” he said.

These qualities are often exactly what vulnerable young people need most. Through mentorship, encouragement and positive role modelling, caring adults help create an environment where healing and personal growth can take place.

The impact of this support is often seen in the transformation of young people over time. Sifiso Manzi, senior child and youth care worker, reflected on the moment he realised the significance of his role.

“I realised my presence could change a young person’s future when they started applying the skills we taught them, and we received positive feedback from home and school,” he said.

Such moments highlight that meaningful change does not happen overnight. It is built through patience, trust and consistent support from adults who are committed to helping young people reach their full potential.

Supporting young people through emotional difficulties requires patience, empathy and active listening. Lebitsa said one of the most important approaches is to listen, understand their feelings and be fully present without distraction. Other staff members emphasised the importance of encouraging healthy coping strategies and seeking professional support when necessary.

Tshabalala’s message carries an important lesson for all fathers and father figures. In a world where young people face increasing social and emotional pressures, simply being available and actively involved can make a lasting difference.

Fatherhood and mental well-being

Father’s Day also coincided with Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, observed globally in June. While fathers and father figures are often expected to be providers and protectors, they too need support, understanding and opportunities to prioritise their own wellbeing.

According to GBTSA staff member Peter Leeuw, strong fatherhood is not defined by perfection but by presence and involvement.

“Strong fatherhood means being present, available and active in a child’s life,” he said.

The positive influence of fathers and father figures extends beyond individual families. It helps build stronger communities, promotes healthier relationships and contributes to raising resilient young people who are better equipped to navigate life’s challenges.

This Father’s Day, GBTSA honoured every father, mentor, caregiver and role model who chooses to remain present in the lives of young people. Their guidance, compassion and commitment continue to leave a lasting impact that reaches far beyond a single day of celebration.

“Fatherhood is one of the most powerful roles a man can hold. It shapes identity, restores hope and rebuilds futures. We must not only celebrate fathers for what they give, but also honour them for what they carry. Their mental health matters, their presence matters and their well-being is essential to the healing of our society,” concluded Farred.