In the heart of Tembisa, Alexandra, and Diepsloot, the stories are often heavy. Gender-based violence (GBV) is more than just a statistic here—it’s a painful reality felt in many homes and on the streets. The Salvation Army’s Gender Justice Office, under Women’s Ministries, strongly felt it was time to bring a new story to these communities, one marked by action and compassion.
In response, the Gender Justice Office recently hosted a two-day training programme to equip volunteers with the skills needed to combat GBV. Twelve volunteers from these three high-risk communities came together, ready to learn and make a difference. The programme began with a keynote address by the Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Lt. Col. N Mahlobo, who welcomed the participants and emphasized the significance of their role in this mission.
The training went beyond tackling GBV alone, exposing the interconnected issues of domestic violence, human trafficking, and child protection. By exploring these overlaps, the initiative provided a deeper understanding of the complex challenges faced by communities.
Now, empowered with practical tools and knowledge, the volunteers are prepared to return to their neighbourhoods, ready to offer support and help break the cycles of violence. This effort marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where these communities take steps toward healing and restoration.