GBV programme hosted at Protea
The programme was aimed at assisting the silenced victims of GBV to come out of their shell and be able to face the world as well as raise awareness of the pervasive issue of GBV and provide support and resources to those affected.
The Raven on Mission Community Project hosted a gender-based violence (GBV) awareness event on September 20 at Protea Glen, Ext Four.
The programme aimed to assist the silenced victims of GBV to come out of their shells and be able to face the world, raise awareness of the pervasive issue of GBV and provide support and resources to those affected.
Marketing director at the Raven on Mission, Granny Mafuri, said for the programme they invited former victims of GBV to share their experiences as they believe their stories may bring change.
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“Through this programme, we want everyone to be well-informed. We want those who are victims of GBV to get assistance.
“We want people who don’t know that they are trapped in abusive relationships to open their eyes and take action.
“We want to change lives, create a safe space for survivors of GBV and help those who are hurting,” said Mafuri.
During the occasion, Bongi Gladness Mothiba and Nompumelelo Langa told their profoundly personal story of overcoming abuse, delivering the audience a poignant tribute to resilience and empowerment.
Soweto Urban News interviewed the two women to learn what they want others to take away from their stories.
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Langa said through her story she wanted women to see how important it is to be confident in themselves, trust themselves and know who they are.
“I hope my story will help many women. By sharing my story, I wish to show women that independence is crucial.
“Throughout my experience in an abusive relationship, I discovered not trusting yourself as an individual causes a person not to resist violence and remain in an abusive relationship.
“It is important to learn about the person you are building a relationship with before taking your relationship to the next step,’’ said Langa.
She said parents needed to educate their sons on how to treat women and their daughters and how to treat men.
Bongi Gladness Mothiba said, “What prompted me to share my story is that I believe it is time for us to raise awareness.
“I know some women are going through what I used to go through, so through my journey, I hope people will learn something and take action.’’
