South Africa: If You Change One Person, You Can Change a Family

“If you change one person, you can change a family, and the family can change some community members.”

These words from Ntuthuko Sikhakhane, a young volunteer with Justice and Women (JAW), capture the transformative power of community-based activism. Ntuthuko’s journey with JAW is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and the ripple effect of change.

Finding Purpose Through JAW

Ntuthuko grew up in Mthonjaneni, KwaZulu-Natal, raised by a loving grandmother after his parents separated. “I’ve always been respectful and loyal,” he says. “My grandmother raised me well before she passed away in 2017.” Life was not easy, but Ntuthuko’s determination to rise above challenges led him to JAW—a turning point in his life.

In 2014, Ntuthuko joined Siyabeseka, a JAW project that uses creative arts to address gender-based violence (GBV) in communities. Through dance, poetry, and music, Ntuthuko and his peers performed role plays that sparked conversations about GBV. “I discovered my talents in singing, acting, and poetry,” he recalls. “These activities raised me a lot.”

Creating Spaces for Dialogue

One of the most impactful initiatives Ntuthuko participated in was the Parenting Project, which brought youth and parents together to discuss concerns. “Before this, parents talked at us,” he explains. “When we tried to share our feelings, they became angry. JAW created a space where we could talk openly.”

The project began with separate sessions for youth and parents, followed by joint meetings. “It was powerful,” Ntuthuko says. “We don’t usually have time to talk together about our concerns. This space changed that.”

Lessons in Power and Change

Through JAW’s Vulamehlo Project, Ntuthuko learned about different types of power: power over, power with, power to, and power within. “I like power within the most,” he says. “Sometimes I feel stuck, but power within is a wake-up call for me.”

These lessons shaped Ntuthuko’s outlook on life. “Yes, I’ve made mistakes as a young person,” he admits. “But deep down, I know I have people who taught me everything I need to know. I feel guilty if they hear what I’ve done—they would be disappointed. So I correct my mistakes.”

From Volunteer to Actor

Ntuthuko’s involvement with JAW opened doors beyond activism. Today, he is a part-time actor in KwaMashu, working on a project called K-CAP. “I see more opportunities to learn and grow,” he says. His story demonstrates how empowerment programmes can unlock potential and create pathways for youth.

The Ripple Effect of Change

Ntuthuko believes in the power of transformation. “If you change one person, you can change a family, and the family can change some community members,” he says. This philosophy underpins JAW’s work—building individual capacity to influence families and communities.

For Ntuthuko, JAW has been more than an organisation. “Thanks to JAW for being a mother and father to me,” he says. “I appreciate the opportunity you gave me.”

By: Ntuthuko Sikhakhane.