Rays of Hope empower young boys to become peace ambassadors

South Africa’s recent crime statics revealed a 58,4% increase in violent crimes against children between the ages of zero and 17 from the first quarter (April to June) of 2021 to 2022.

If this is not dealt with early, this and other deeply rooted trauma could often manifest into anger, self-esteem issues, toxic masculinity and other unhealthy behavioural challenges that were common among teenagers.

This was according to Hurlingham and Alexandra-based organisation Rays of Hope, which to address this issue started its eight-week anger management programme for boys.

With funding from the Solidarity Fund, 64 boys learned about the important role they play in society, how to express their emotions and how to productively handle their anger positively.

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The boys recently concluded the programme with a camp in Magaliesburg which focused on the theme ‘be the change you want to see’.

According to Jacob Tema, gender-based violence programme coordinator at Rays of Hope, the programme aims to counteract violence in schools by teaching the boys constructive methods of dealing with aggression.

This included, but was not limited to, empowering the young boys in decision-making, teamwork, communication skills and conflict resolution.

The long-term goal is to empower the boys to become peace ambassadors within the Alexandra community.

“Through the anger management programme and the camp, we wanted to empower the boys to understand that when they are angry or have a rush of emotions, it is better to discuss their feelings rather than inflict violence on those around them,” said Tema.

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