NPO redefining masculinity and tackling mental health in Hammanskraal
The organisation was born out of a deep passion to restore dignity, safety, and mental well-being in vulnerable communities like Hammanskraal,particularly addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and mental health challenges faced by men
A non-profit organisation based in New Eersterus, Hammanskraal aims to change men for the better.
Father Figure in the Community was founded in 2021 by Peter Makwakwa, a dedicated community activist and social advocate.
Makwakwa said the main inspiration behind the organisation stems from observing the growing concern of gender-based violence (GBV), broken family structures, substance abuse, and the silence around men’s mental health issues in Hammanskraal and surrounding areas.
“I realised that men, often seen as perpetrators, are rarely engaged as part of the solution,” he said.
“This, linked with the stigma surrounding mental health struggles, drove the need to create an organisation that would promote healing, accountability, awareness, and gender equality.”
He said they use a community-centred approach to engage men in GBV conversation and mental health struggles by hosting men-only dialogue sessions in taverns, churches and sports clubs.
He said the majority of men within the areas respond positively and usher support towards the organisation.
“More men are now stepping forward to participate in conversations about mental health and GBV.”
The NPO offers key programmes including community dialogues on GBV and masculinity, men and boys empowerment workshops, mental health awareness campaigns, gender equality school outreach programmes and a survivor support forum.
When asked about the challenges the NPO is facing, Makwakwa answered lack of funds and equipment like proper office equipment for a counselling room.
He also noted that some men initially rejected the idea of being engaged in conversations around GBV and mental health.
“We overcame this by partnering with respected local leaders and slowly building trust through consistent, non-judgemental community engagement,” he said.
Makwakwa shared a remarkable story where the organisation helped an ex-convict father living with a physical disability to facilitate a paternity DNA test as he was denied access to his child.
“He was denied access to his child because of his criminal record, disability, and financial status. The child’s mother went as far as denying that he was the biological father, telling him the child belonged to another man. Father Figure in the Community stepped in to advocate for this father’s rights,” he said.
“Another success story was when a local young man, who once admitted to being abusive towards his partner, became one of our strongest advocates after participating in our workshops,” Makwela emphasised
The man is now leading school awareness campaigns, sharing his testimony and teaching young boys about responsibility and healthy relationships.
Makwela said they are currently seeking corporate partnerships and funding support to sustain and grow the initiative.
For more information, visit https://fatherfigureinthecommunity.org/
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