Shared experiences of trauma can foster a profound sense of connection, empathy, and sisterhood. This bond can be a powerful catalyst for healing, growth, and community-building, providing survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) with the support they need to reclaim their power and identity.
Justice Desk Africa’s Mbokodo Program was established seven years ago with just 10 girls from Nyanga. Today, it has expanded to serve 80 girls from Nyanga, Khayelitsha, and Bonteheuwel. This program empowers survivors and those exposed to GBV through workshops, psychosocial support, self-defence training, and mentorship. Central to Mbokodo is the transformative journey of each participant: from victim to victor to visionary. This progression allows the girls to rediscover their strength and identity, fostering resilience and hope.
At its core, the Mbokodo Program is about healing and growth through connection. It provides a safe space where survivors can support and learn from each other, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Time and again, we witness remarkable transformations in our Heroes, many of whom go on to become changemakers in their communities and role models for others.
A key component of the program is its peer support groups—safe spaces where survivors share their stories, offer emotional support, and connect over shared experiences. This sense of solidarity empowers participants to rebuild their confidence, self-esteem, and purpose. Sessions like the Circle of Courage, which explore belonging, independence, mastery, and generosity, create a strong sense of community and foster lifelong bonds among the girls.
The power of shared experience extends beyond emotional support. It helps our Heroes develop resilience and coping strategies, encouraging personal growth, accountability, and self-awareness. Through the program, young leaders are equipped with tools and strategies to not only navigate their own healing journeys but also to empower others. This ripple effect of resilience and empowerment is crucial in combating the pervasive impact of GBV.
While these efforts cannot eradicate GBV overnight, they are vital in chipping away at its effects. By addressing the emotional and psychological needs of survivors, we protect their identities from being lost to trauma and instead transform them into tools for advocacy and justice.
The program also emphasises the power of storytelling, equipping participants with the confidence to share their experiences with pride and purpose. Storytelling fosters empathy, understanding, and healing while inspiring others to take action. The Mbokodo Program has created a pivotal space for empowerment and healing through sisterhood, providing participants with platforms to amplify their voices and contribute to building safer, more supportive communities.
As we step into 2025, let us remember the importance of everyday activism. Change doesn’t happen overnight—it requires consistent effort, driven by individuals in their communities, peer support groups, and every encounter aimed at fostering understanding and connection.
If you or someone you know is seeking resources for GBV trauma, reliable support is available through organisations like the Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust, the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) GBV Programme, and the Department of Social Development’s GBV Programme.
Let this be a reminder: your trauma is not just a burden—it is a tool for advocacy and justice. Together, we can build a more just and equal world.