By Blessing Mmola
Stephan Ford, the dealership principal of Numbi Ford in Mpumalanga’s White River, eloquently illustrates the profound interconnectedness of community and societal well-being with his statement: “It takes a village to raise a child; it takes a community to raise a village.” He emphasizes the pivotal role of a well-established community in nurturing and supporting not only individual children but also the entire fabric of the village, addressing modern social, economic, cultural, and gender challenges along the way.
In light of the prevalent gender-based violence and femicide crisis in Mpumalanga and across the nation, initiatives like The Collen Mashawana Foundation – Mpumalanga, in collaboration with partners such as Shaine Born & Blessing M Holdings, are stepping up to address these pressing issues head-on.
At the heart of the foundation’s mission lies a profound commitment to addressing not just the symptoms, but the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide. Recognising that these issues are deeply entrenched in societal norms, systemic inequalities, and individual traumas, the foundation adopts a holistic approach that encompasses both immediate intervention and long-term systemic change.
Recently, they secured a significant plot of land in the Nkomazi area under King Mlambo II’s patronage to establish a groundbreaking Men and Boys Recovery Centre. It symbolises a paradigm shift in how we perceive and address male victims of abuse. Traditionally overlooked or stigmatised, male survivors of sexual violence and trauma often suffer in silence, lacking access to appropriate support services. By establishing a specialised centre tailored to their needs, the foundation not only provides a safe haven for healing but also challenges entrenched gender stereotypes and societal norms that perpetuate the cycle of violence.
Moreover, the foundation’s emphasis on education and skills development represents a proactive investment in the future of South Africa’s youth. By equipping boys with practical skills and empowering them to break free from cycles of poverty and violence, these initiatives not only offer tangible pathways to economic empowerment but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.
This centre, in partnership with Matrix Men-JNB, aims to provide vital support to male survivors of sexual abuse and other traumas, filling a critical gap in existing services.
Matrix Men Foundation stands out as a beacon of hope, offering upscale recovery services tailored to male executives, ministers, international clients, and boys. Understanding the profound impact of childhood trauma on future behaviours and societal trends, Matrix Men is committed to breaking the cycle of violence and dysfunction by addressing the root causes of male suffering.
The collaborative nature of the foundation’s approach underscores the importance of collective action in addressing complex social issues. By forging partnerships with government agencies, private sector leaders, and grassroots organizations, the foundation amplifies its impact and leverages resources more effectively. This collaborative model not only enhances the scalability and sustainability of its programs but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility and ownership among stakeholders.
Beyond its immediate interventions, the foundation’s advocacy efforts aim to challenge societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate gender-based violence. Through public awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and community mobilisation, the foundation seeks to shift cultural narratives and promote gender equality and respect for human rights.
The statistics provided underscore the urgent need for such initiatives, with alarming rates of fatherlessness, sexual abuse, literacy challenges, and substance abuse among men in South Africa. Matrix Men’s comprehensive programs, covering childhood trauma, sexual abuse, addiction, mental health, and life skills, aim to provide holistic support and empowerment to men and boys across the nation.
Martin Pelders, CEO of Matrix Men Health and Wellness Centre, brings personal experience and expertise to the forefront, serving as a vocal advocate in the fight against gender-based violence and femicide. His vision extends beyond the confines of Johannesburg, aspiring to establish similar centers in major cities nationwide, including Mpumalanga.
The long-term goals for Mpumalanga include not only the establishment of a boarding school for boys but also vocational workshops aimed at equipping youth with practical skills for sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives, coupled with community-focused projects and events like the Red Carpet Gender Based Violence and Femicide event, aim to provide tangible support and solutions at the grassroots level.
The annual Red Carpet Gender Based Violence and Femicide event serves as a powerful platform for raising awareness, mobilizing support, and showcasing the tangible impact of the foundation’s work. By bringing together key stakeholders from diverse sectors, the event creates opportunities for dialogue, collaboration, and collective action.
Looking ahead, the foundation’s vision extends far beyond the borders of Mpumalanga, aiming to catalyze a nationwide movement for change. By nurturing a network of empowered caregivers, advocates, and change agents, the foundation aspires to create a ripple effect that transcends geographic boundaries and transforms communities across South Africa.
The event’s pillars, including networking opportunities, sponsor appreciation, and showcasing community projects, are strategically designed to garner support and raise funds for ongoing initiatives. The official launch, slated for August 3rd, promises to be a pivotal moment in mobilizing key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector leaders, and NGOs, to join hands in combatting gender-based violence and fostering positive change in Mpumalanga.
Collen Mashawana Foundation Mpumalanga would like to thank the following companies who participated in the success of this event: The Akuna Studio; Paradise Creek Lodge; Brandhill Africa; and the Mlambo Traditional Authority.
As the Collen Mashawana Foundation extends invitations and calls for collaboration, the overarching message is clear: only through unified, concerted efforts can we hope to overcome the scourge of gender-based violence and build a more equitable and resilient society for all. For those interested in getting involved, detailed contact information is provided, facilitating seamless engagement with the foundation’s initiatives and objectives.
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For more information on collaboration, co-branding and partnership opportunities, please call the Collen Mashawana Foundation’s Mpumalanga Office on 0647701409.