South Africa: Healing Communities by Empowering Youth to End GBV

This story highlights community activist Nokukhanya Khumalo and her work supporting survivors of gender-based violence while empowering young people to build confidence, self-awareness and leadership skills. Through advocacy, creativity and healing centered approaches, she is helping communities in South Africa break cycles of violence and nurture safe, empowered spaces. Before Nokukhanya Khumalo began her work, many women, children and young people in her community faced persistent gender-based violence. 

Survivors were often silenced by fear, stigma, and limited access to safe spaces. Young people possessed creativity and ambition but lacked mentorship and platforms to develop their potential. Nokukhanya, a South African community activist and youth development practitioner, committed herself to healing communities and empowering young people. Her lived experiences drove her to co find SERETO SA BOTLHE, an organization focused on community healing, self-worth and development. She also began developing a book series aimed at helping young people understand their identity, build confidence, and make healthier life decisions. 

Her participation in the Women of the South Speak Out (WOSSO) Fellowship strengthened her advocacy and feminist leadership skills. This experience enabled her to engage more effectively at grassroots level. She facilitated community dialogues on GBV, created safe spaces for survivors, and mentored young people in building self-awareness and developing creative and career pathways. She collaborated with Gender Links through WOSSO, and volunteered with The Organisation for Young Women's Dignity, Diepsloot Youth Programme and Diepsloot Library. 

The community experienced improved awareness, stronger youth empowerment, and more supportive responses to GBV. Survivors gained access to information and psychosocial support, while young people developed confidence, resilience, and practical life skills. Through ongoing mentorship, capacity building, and partnerships with organisations such as Diepsloot Youth Programme, the impact continues to grow. SERETO SA BOTLHE documents its work to strengthen learning and replicability, while promoting community ownership to sustain long term change. 

Quotes 

Mpho Phasmeni; Youth need more people like you to help recognize when the youth are going through a lot...

Senamile Ndlovu; Coach, I remember I was afraid to speak up about being bullied...