Foundation offers new hope for women in Mamelodi
A newly launched organisation aims to help gender-based violence and femicide survivors rebuild their lives by combining emotional support with skills development and employment opportunities.
Survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Mamelodi will soon have dedicated access to long-term support following the launch of Healing Lives Foundation, a non-profit organisation.
The NPO is focused on helping survivors regain independence through psychological support, skills development and employment readiness.
The foundation was officially launched at Mamelodi Community Hall on July 18 under the theme ‘From Crisis to Career – From Silence to Strength’.
The initiative seeks to move beyond crisis intervention by equipping survivors with tools and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives, encouraging a united community response to GBV.
Operating in one of Gauteng’s identified GBV hotspots, the foundation aims to provide comprehensive aftercare services, community awareness programmes and practical interventions that promote financial independence.
The organisation believes that empowering survivors economically can play an important role in helping them break free from abusive environments and reduce their vulnerability.
Founder and director of the Healing Lives Foundation, Siphokazi Buwa, said the organisation was established after recognising that many women remain trapped in abusive situations because they lack support and opportunities to start over.
“Our women suffer because they do not have a voice. So, we started this foundation to say, let us give your voice back. Let us give you hope. Let us lead you to light, so that you know that where you are, it is not the end, and it does not have to be the end,” said Buwa.
She added that the foundation’s vision is to help survivors regain their confidence by opening pathways to education, skills development and employment.
“As we come together and launch the Healing Lives Foundation today, let us look forward to seeing more happening for our survivors. We want them to be educated and have jobs so that they do not become secondary victims,” added Buwa.
The launch drew support from government representatives, civil society organisations and community members, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening efforts to combat violence against women and children. Former Deputy President Baleka Mbete also attended the event in support of the initiative.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko welcomed the foundation and said thegovernment remains committed to working alongside organisations that assist vulnerable women and children.
“We are pleased to launch this programme with you that can assist vulnerable women and children. As the department, we are committing to work with you to declare war against gender-based violence,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
She further stressed that ending GBV requires continued collaboration between government, communities, faith-based organisations and civil society.
“As government, we reaffirm our commitment to ending the cycle of violence. We must confront the scourge of gender-based violence without any fear or favour. When a man becomes violent, he destroys the future of our families,” explained MEC.
The launch marks another community-driven effort to strengthen support systems for survivors while encouraging collective action against GBV. By focusing on healing, education and economic empowerment, the foundation hopes to restore dignity, create opportunities and help survivors build safer and more independent futures.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok or WhatsApp Channel
