South Africa: I Have Your Back!

Empowering Youth, Building Safer Communities 

In Johannesburg, South Africa, Karabo Tladi stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. As a facilitator with Youth Action Health, Karabo has dedicated her life to addressing some of the most pressing issues in her community: gender-based violence (GBV), sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), and HIV and AIDS awareness. 

Before Karabo’s intervention, silence and stigma dominated conversations around these topics. Women and girls bore the brunt of GBV and lacked access to essential health services. Misconceptions about HIV and AIDS persisted, and young people were left vulnerable due to limited knowledge and support systems. The absence of safe spaces for dialogue meant harmful behaviors continued unchecked. 

The Turning Point 

Karabo’s work through Youth Action Health introduced a new narrative one rooted in empowerment, education, and respect. Through Youth4Youthinitiatives, school-based dialogues, and community workshops, she created platforms where young people could learn about consent, healthy relationships, and SRHR. Her sessions emphasized the importance of communication, respect, and informed decision-making. 

Karabo’s approach was practical and empathetic. She didn’t just teach; she listened, engaged, and inspired. Her mantra, “I Have Your Back,” became a rallying cry for young people seeking guidance and support. 

The Change 

The impact has been profound. Learners now demonstrate improved attitudes toward GBV and SRHR. Reports from Learner Support Agents show a significant reduction in bullying and harmful behaviors. Young people are more confident in exercising their rights, seeking help, and making informed choices about their health and relationships. 

“GBV session helped me understand that GBV can be more than physical.” — Neo Machete 

“Seek help. Do not bottle your problems.” — Phillip Visser 

“Better understanding of No means No.” — Kabelo Selepe 

These voices reflect a cultural shift—one where respect and consent are becoming the norm. 

Evidence of Change 

• Behavioral Transformation: Learners exhibit positive attitudes and reduce bullying.
• Increased Participation: More youth engage in SRHR and GBV dialogues.
• Quantitative Proof: Pre- and post-intervention surveys confirm improved knowledge and attitudes.

Sustainability and Next Steps

Youth Action Health plans to scale up its Youth4Youth initiative, strengthening partnerships with schools and communities. The organization aims to: 

• Expand SRHR and GBV prevention programs.
• Train more facilitators to replicate Karabo’s success.
• Secure funding to sustain and grow outreach efforts. 

Karabo’s story is more than a tale of facilitation it’s a testament to the power of education and empathy in transforming lives. By creating safe spaces and fostering dialogue, she is helping build a generation that values respect, equality, and health. 

By Leah Sebola Polokwane, Limpopo