South Africa: Human error, humanity not found
Sasopsbiz Foundation hosted a two-day session for the 16 Days of Activism Campaign titled “A Creative Workshop Exploring Gender, Power, and Pain in the Digital Mirror.”
Before starting these sessions, Sasopsbiz Foundation partnered with other NPOs around Pietermaritzburg as well as other WVL grantees to make the sessions successful. Sasopsbiz Foundation management, Ms. Pumla Vilakazi and Mr. Nduna, went to the local radio station uMgungundlovu FM to spread the word about the Sasopsbiz Foundation 16 Days of Activism Campaign.
Day 1: Women’s Circle -Healing & Expression
The workshop was a powerful, emotionally engaging, and transformative experience that brought participants together to discuss and share knowledge about bender-based violence, particularly how it occurs in digital spaces. The programme created a safe and healing environment through a combination of dialogue, creativity, grounding practices, and collective reflection. Ms. Pumla Vilakazi led the welcome and purpose-setting session, followed by words of support from Incema NPO, who highlighted the urgency of addressing digital forms of GBV. Expressions of poetry and song helped set an emotional foundation for the day.
The Mindful Art Society facilitated several sessions, including Holding Space, Gender Based Violence, and discussions on Cyberbullying, Digital Harm, and Ethical Digital Citizenship. Their approach supported deep reflection on online behaviours, emotional harm, power dynamics, and how can healthier digital environments be created. Storytelling Session with TransHope, where lived experiences and creative narratives helped surface personal and collective truths. The afternoon sessions blended healing and activism. Everyone who attended explored Art as a Tool for Social Change, followed by an expressive segment where participants shared their insights and creative work.
One of the most meaningful moments was a Healing Activity facilitated by Bongekile from Healing of Memories. Attendees then participated in painting activities, healing games, and a symbolic pledge. Everyone covered their hands in paint and placed their handprints on a collective chart as a sign of unity, commitment, and solidarity in ending GBV. They signed the chart as a shared promise to advocate, heal, and support one another.
The day closed with a Candlelight Healing Moment, where candles were lit in remembrance of all those who have been affected by GBV, honouring their experiences and reaffirming our role in driving change. Day 1 ended with a photoshoot that captured the spirit of hope, resilience, and collective action. This day was made possible through the dedication of our partners and supporters: Gender Links, Women’s Voice Leadership SA, TransHope, Incema, The Mindful Art Society, Mngadimed, and all who contributed to holding this powerful space.
Day 2: Men’s Circle – Men as Digital Allies
Day 2 focused on men’s engagement as allies. It opened with a grounding mindfulness activity, encouraging men to connect with their senses and be fully present to hear, smell, taste, feel, and reflect deeply. This set the tone to open hearts and open minds. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogues on Digital GBV, harmful online behaviours, and the responsibility men carry in challenging abuse both online and offline. Men unpacked consent, respect, and the importance of dismantling harmful norms that fuel violence.
Through group discussions, scenario reflections, and guided activities, the men explored what it truly means to be allies not just in words, but in action. They examined their roles in families, relationships, and communities, and the power they hold to shift culture. The circle also created space for vulnerability. Men shared personal stories, struggles, and commitments to change. This honesty-built trust, understanding, and unity in the room.
We closed the day with a Solidarity Commitment Circle, where each participant made a pledge to stand against GBV, uplift women and LGBTQIA+ persons, and model healthy masculinity. Candles were lit in honour of those lost to GBV, reminding us all why accountability matters.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign at Sasopsbiz Foundation was more than a workshop it was a movement of voices, healing, and commitment. These two days was the reminder that ending Gender-Based Violence is not just a conversation; it is a collective responsibility that demands courage, empathy, and action.
