South Africa: Grassroots Organisation is “Transformed” by the Change The Script Partners Workshop

A Story of Transformation and Hope 

In the heart of Orange Farm, a vibrant yet underserved community in Gauteng, IsiGqu Somama—a grassroots organisation led by passionate women—faced a daunting reality. Despite their unwavering commitment to uplifting women and youth, they struggled to secure funding and resources. Their vision was clear: to create safe spaces for healing, empowerment, and dignity. But without financial support and strategic guidance, that vision seemed like a distant dream. 

For years, IsiGqu Somama worked tirelessly, often with little more than hope and determination. They knew the stakes were high. Gender-based violence (GBV) continued to devastate families and communities in the Vaal area, leaving women vulnerable and young people without opportunities. The organisation’s leaders carried the weight of these challenges, wondering if their efforts would ever be enough. 

Then came a turning point—a workshop hosted by Tosunga Baninga under the Change The Script initiative. This was not just another meeting. It was a space of possibility, a gathering that would redefine what IsiGqu Somama believed was achievable. 

The Change Begins 

The Gauteng partners’ workshop was designed to do more than share information; it aimed to ignite transformation. For IsiGqu Somama, it did exactly that. The workshop opened doors to new ideas, networks, and strategies. It reminded them of their worth and the power of collaboration. Most importantly, it affirmed that small organisations can create big ripples of change when given the right support. 

Tosunga Baninga stepped in as more than a facilitator—they became an ally. They invested time, care, and expertise, walking alongside IsiGqu Somama in their journey. This partnership was rooted in solidarity and shared purpose: to combat GBV and restore dignity to women across the Vaal. 

Voices of Change 

The impact of this intervention is best captured in the words of those who lived it: 

• “Together, we brought twelve young people into a space of learning, healing, and empowerment. From that gathering, six mothers received the critical support they had long needed.” 
• “That workshop wasn’t just an event. It was a turning point. It reminded us of why we do this work. It reminded us that healing is possible. And it showed us that, with the right support, small organisations like ours can create big ripples of change.” 
• “Thanks to Tosunga Baninga, IsiGqu Somama is still here, standing taller, working harder, and dreaming bigger. Your belief in us has meant more than we can express.” 

These testimonies speak to a profound shift—not only in organisational capacity but in spirit. IsiGqu Somama emerged from the workshop with renewed confidence and a clearer vision for the future. 

Sustainability and Next Steps 

The story does not end here. IsiGqu Somama and Tosunga Baninga have committed to deepening their partnership. Together, they will continue to invest time and care into initiatives that challenge GBV and promote gender justice. Their collaboration will focus on creating sustainable programs that empower women and youth, ensuring that the seeds planted during the workshop grow into lasting change. This journey is a powerful reminder: transformation begins when organisations are seen, supported, and believed in. IsiGqu Somama’s experience proves that grassroots movements, when nurtured, can become catalysts for systemic change. 

Why This Matters 

In communities like Orange Farm, where resources are scarce and challenges are immense, partnerships like these are lifelines. They demonstrate that combating GBV is not just about policies—it’s about people, relationships, and shared commitment. It’s about creating spaces where healing and empowerment are possible. IsiGqu Somama’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the undeniable truth that change is possible when we work together. Through initiatives like Change The Script, we are rewriting narratives—one workshop, one partnership, one empowered woman at a time. 

By: Itumeleng Maloka.