1000 Women Trust, a national organisation that serves as a voice for those affected by various forms of gender-based violence (GBV), with a particular focus on women and children, is at the forefront of ongoing efforts to tackle the crisis. Cynthia Khumalo, a dedicated ambassador for the trust, social service practitioner, and life coach, works to raise public awareness about the pervasive nature of criminal abuse, including extortion and child trafficking.

“We are here to be their advocates, to fight for their rights, to fight against GBV. We are rising, and we want our community members to be aware of this pandemic happening in our country,” said Khumalo.

The organisation offers free programmes, including trauma counselling and anti-bullying initiatives, to learners across the country, aiming to provide resources that address the aftermath of abuse.

Prevention and assistance

The organisation's strategy is comprehensive, focusing on both prevention and direct support. According to Khumalo, the 1000 Women Trust has trained a network of “GBV warriors” who act as first responders in communities.

These warriors, equipped with trauma training and counselling experience, are responsible for establishing safe rooms in areas identified as gender-based violence hotspots.

The safe rooms provide victims with a secure space where they can receive support, guidance, and accompaniment to police stations or courts to report their cases.

“Our strategy for assisting victims and families is establishing safe rooms in GBV hotspots across the country, where GBV warriors can assist women and children, give them a safe space, sound advice, and accompany them to report cases to the police or courts,” Khumalo explained.

While the trust provides online courses, the GBV warriors serve as the “foot soldiers” on the ground, delivering in-person training to those who may not have internet access.

Beyond online courses

“We have GBV warriors in different provinces, and they are training community members. We’re extending this network. It’s a chain we want in every area where we have GBV warriors,” said Khumalo.

The work of the 1000 Women Trust also extends to a variety of victims, including young boys who have been abducted for extortion. Khumalo emphasised that these acts are criminal and require urgent police action.

“I don’t know why we have to force the police to do their work. But at the end of the day, we report cases to the police and courts, and we accompany victims while also involving social workers in these matters,” she added.

Looking ahead

The 1000 Women Trust plans to continue its mission through a series of workshops and roadshows designed to raise awareness and educate the public.

A key component of these future initiatives is a programme titled Talking to Boys, which encourages parents to instil values of non-violence, respect for women and girls, and gender equality in their sons.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane mvh