South Africa: Learning Happens When You Grab Opportunities

A Journey of Growth and Feminist Leadership

“Some challenges that you face in being an activist are issues like teamwork, and feminism has taught me the importance of collective working and accountability and to overcome this by collectively working on it with the team and leaders in our organisation.” These words from Sellwane Mavundla, affectionately known as Bab’ Mavundla, capture the essence of her journey as a feminist activist. Based in Evaton, Gauteng, Sellwane is a dedicated member and secretary of Lebo Basadi, a community-based organisation committed to advancing women’s rights and creating safe spaces for queer women.

Her story is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to learning. When the One in Nine Campaign project extended an invitation to a feminist workshop, Sellwane faced a choice: rest after a gruelling night shift or seize the opportunity to learn. She chose learning. Exhausted but determined, she joined her peers, proving that activism often demands sacrifice and that true change begins with personal commitment.

From Participant to Leader

The first time the team met Sellwane, her tiredness was evident, yet her engagement never faltered. That moment spoke volumes about her dedication to changing the narratives of queer women in her community. Over time, her growth has been remarkable. She has developed a sharp ability to analyse and articulate the experiences of queer women within the broader discourse on gender-based violence (GBV) and women’s oppression in South Africa and globally.

“What I love most are the challenges and exercises we get from the 1in9 team. They have helped me to think outside the box. Through that, I have learned how to be a team player and to handle hard situations even when under pressure.”

This transformation is not just about knowledge; it is about leadership. Sellwane’s involvement in the project has equipped her with critical skills—decision-making, conflict resolution, and the ability to foster trust. These skills have made her a go-to person within Lebo Basadi, someone others rely on to navigate challenges and find solutions.

The Power of Feminist Solidarity

“At Lebo Basadi I was appointed as secretary, but honestly, I’m everywhere. Whenever someone needs help, I assist.” Like many grassroots organisations, roles often overlap, and members wear multiple hats to ensure the work gets done. Sellwane embraces this reality with enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of collective responsibility that feminism champions.

Her experience with One in Nine has opened her eyes to the vast opportunities for learning and collaboration. “There are people out there who can teach you more than you even know, like queer activists who share their knowledge with others.” This realisation underscores the importance of solidarity and knowledge-sharing in building stronger movements.

Looking Ahead: Building Safe Spaces for Queer Youth

Sellwane’s vision for the future is clear and inspiring. “Going forward I want to continue gaining knowledge and learning with 1in9 so that we can have more dialogues and workshops in the community, especially for the queer youth—teaching them about their rights, responsibility, accountability, creating safe spaces, respect and most importantly education. Meeting other queer activists from across our borders so that we learn strategies that have worked for them and build solidarity with each other.”

Her words reflect a deep understanding that activism is not a solitary journey but a collective effort rooted in education, empowerment, and cross-border collaboration. By creating spaces where queer youth feel safe and informed, Sellwane and her peers are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and just society.

Drivers of Change

Sellwane’s story is a powerful reminder that learning happens when you grab opportunities—even when circumstances make it difficult. Her journey with Lebo Basadi and the One in Nine Campaign illustrates the transformative power of feminist organising, resilience, and solidarity. It is a testament to how grassroots activism can ignite change, one dialogue, one workshop, and one committed individual at a time.

By: Sellwane Mavundla