August at Justice Desk Africa was all about Women’s Month, a powerful time to reflect on the ongoing fight for gender equality and justice. Through our core programs, we remain committed to empowering women and girls to stand up for their rights and create lasting change in their communities. Together, we’re working towards a South Africa free from gender-based violence.
This month was filled with impactful events such as the 5km Women's Day Promenade Walk with Good Hope FM, the Anti-GBV protest with the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation, an Umoya Spring Day session, Youth Ambassador trainings, and a special visit from the Kolisi Foundation.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us. Together, we are making strides toward a more just and equitable society!
Hope House' opens at Mariasdal Combined School
On a recent trip to Mariasdal Combined School, after meeting with the school and Archbishop Zolile Peter Mpambani, we received his blessing to transform an old convent into ‘Hope House’—our new hub in the Free State.
With support from the local community, the Catholic Church, and our dedicated Justice Desk Africa team, we restored the building, and now Hope House is ready to host volunteers committed to making a difference. Volunteers will help restore the school by setting up libraries, painting classrooms, and supporting teachers.
We also welcomed 4 amazing teachers from Ireland and England on an Immersion program. They helped in classrooms, served food, and created a mini playroom and library for the primary school, bringing this project to life with books and toys generously donated by friends.
Hope House isn’t just a place; it’s a beacon of hope, a symbol of transformation, and a testament to our commitment to empowering communities. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Mariasdal and beyond!
Anti-GBV Walk to Parliament
We joined the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation Anti-GBV Walk to Parliament. 24 August marks 5 years since Uyinene Mrwetyana was attacked and murdered, and the fight against gender-based violence is still far from over.
Her memory calls us to action - to challenge the prevailing norms, to address the structures that perpetuate violence, and to advocate for a society in which safety, dignity, and respect are the birthright of all.
Umoya Spring Day Session
We spent a lovely morning with our Umoya residents, from Missionaries of Charity in Khayelitsha, spoiling them with some pampering and quality time. We painted and clipped nails, soaked hands and feet, and served hot chocolate.
A huge thank you to our incredible volunteers who made this day extra special! Your kindness and compassion bring light to the lives of those we serve.
iNtsika yeThemba Launch Community Cleaning Campaign
The boys from iNtsika yeThemba and our Programs Manager launched a community cleaning campaign in Nyanga. Frustrated by inadequate service delivery, these young leaders took action, removing litter and debris to create a cleaner, safer environment.
They also engaged with residents, raising awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean neighbourhood.
5km Walk with Good Hope FM's Stan Mars
Justice Desk Africa and Good Hope FM united for the #stans5kclub walk along Sea Point Promenade ahead of Women's Day. Together, we took steps to raise awareness about gender-based violence and create a safer future for all women.
Airing live on the Big Breakfast Show, we commemorated the significant strides made by women in South Africa and highlighted the alarming increase in GBV incidents and senseless killings.
Congrats Jess
Congratulations to our CEO Jessica Dewhurst for being named a finalist in the 2024 TransUnion Rising Star Awards.
This achievement highlights our impact and commitment to empowering everyday people to become Human Rights Defenders across Africa.
Welcoming Dinner for Irish and British Immersion Teachers
We had a wonderful evening filled with laughter and connection as we welcomed our four visiting teachers! Our staff, volunteers, facilitators, and a group of our amazing kids gathered for a delicious braai; sharing stories, experiences, and insights about our work at Justice Desk Africa.
It was a beautiful opportunity to bond and learn from one another as we discussed our mission to empower communities and uphold human rights. Together, we are building bridges across borders and fostering lasting relationships that inspire change.
Kolisi Foundation Visit
We were thrilled to host Rachel Kolisi and Karabo Mabaso from the Kolisi Foundation during our recent Mbokodo and iNtsika sessions.
The boys and girls gave them a warm welcome with energisers, uplifting songs, and a special performance by our Mbokodo choir. Rachel and Karabo took the time to visit various workshops, learning more about our programs and engaging with our incredible kids, staff, and volunteers.
The Kolisi Foundation is a funder of our iNtsika yeThemba Program.
Women's Month Panel Discussion
This Friday, join us for an unforgettable evening as we wrap up Women's Month with ‘Her Rights, Her Voice: How Women Experience Legal Services’, a powerful panel discussion and the first instalment of our ‘Faces Over Facts’ series.
Hear from trailblazing guest speakers as they dive into women’s experiences with legal services, law, feminism, and human rights.
RSVP to communications@justicedesk.org
YA Human Rights and GBV Trainings
In August we spent time with many of our Youth Ambassador Schools, including Peak View High School, Bastiaanse Secondary School, Holy Cross High School, Arcadia High School, Luhlaza Secondary School, and Bonteheweul High School.
Our interactive workshops explored the topics of consent, bodily autonomy, mental health, and healthy relationships, while creating a safe space for learners to ask questions and express concerns. The programs highlighted the role of education in preventing GBV, encouraging students to become advocates for a safer, more equitable society.
Volunteer and Facilitator Social
Our Volunteer and Facilitator Social was an incredible opportunity for our team to come together, connect, and strengthen the community that drives Justice Desk Africa forward. The day was filled with bonding and we enjoyed a braai for lunch.
Our social workers also conducted a PSEAH (Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment) training with our volunteers.
Justice Desk Africa Team Building
Last Friday, our team came together for an engaging team building session focused on fostering stronger connections and practicing conscious listening. We took the time to learn more about each other, deepening our understanding of how to collaborate more effectively and support one another in our mission.
After the productive session, we headed to Blouberg for pizzas and an afternoon by the beach.
Fundraising Champion Crystal August-Reynecke
A huge shoutout to Crystal August-Reynecke who is training to run the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in support of our iNtsika yeThemba Program!
She is raising R10 000 to help empower young boys to become positive male role models and end GBV.
Spotlight on the Kolisi Foundation
This month, we are proud to highlight the Kolisi Foundation for their incredible support of Justice Desk Africa and the communities we serve. Their commitment as a co-funder to our iNtsika yeThemba program, soup kitchens, and in-kind donations has been truly transformative.
Thanks to their partnership as a co-funder, 85 boys in our iNtsika yeThemba program have benefited from empowerment activities focused on human rights, gender norms, and personal development. Additionally, 90 girls received 'Power to You' packs, supporting their growth, and we extended this initiative to members of S&P Global during our GBV training.
We are deeply grateful to the Kolisi Foundation for their unwavering dedication and positive impact on both children and the wider community.