Disrupting Patriarchy from Within, A Feminist Journey in Ndofela

Zintle Khobeni – South Africa 

In the quiet rural villages of Ndofela, South Africa, where tradition runs deep and the voices of women often go unheard, I began a journey that would challenge the very foundations of patriarchal power. Armed with my WOSSO advocacy plan and a determination to address gender based violence, I chose to start where the resistance was greatest: within cultural institutions. 

My strategy was rooted in engaging young men from five villages, Walaza, Mfityi/Ndofela, Mbombo, Bikizana, and Qhimirha especially those preparing for initiation. These rites of passage shape masculine identities, and I saw an opportunity to intervene early. Through community dialogues, I introduced conversations on the intersection of tradition, masculinity, and violence. These spaces were difficult, often tense, but gradually minds began to shift. 

A defining moment came when a woman in the village stood up and demanded accountability from the chief. Her courage lit a fire. I realised that my advocacy needed to go beyond prevention, it had to confront backlash. I began working with progressive male traditional leaders who were open to reform. One of the most powerful transformations came through discussions about appointing a female chief, a radical, historic idea in this deeply traditional community. 

Through three locally organised community dialogues and a radio interview on Zibonele FM, I expanded the reach of these conversations. At the same time, I grew as an activist. The WOSSO Fellowship opened doors to regional and global platforms. At the SADC Heads of State Summit, I moderated key panels. At AWID in Thailand, I led a discussion on backlash titled From Silos to Solidarity. Each space reaffirmed the importance of integrating grassroots realities into high-level advocacy. 

But perhaps the most profound change was internal. Before WOSSO, I was uncertain about my place in feminist spaces. Today, I am a confident blogger, speaker, and movement builder. Blogging became an unexpected tool of resistance, thanks to encouragement from Mme Colleen, I found a new voice, documenting my journey and sharing it with over 9,000 followers across platforms.  

This is not just my story, it is the story of a community beginning to imagine a future where women lead, young men respect, and culture evolves. It is proof that even in the most patriarchal corners of society, change is possible when led with courage, care, and community.