South Africa: Highlights from the George Human Rights Awareness Campaign
The George Human Rights Awareness Campaign, became a powerful reminder that ending gender-based violence (GBV) requires strong partnerships, empowered communities, and sustained action.
The event, hosted by Gender Links and part of the Sunrise Campaign, brought together government departments, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, Sunrise Campaign participants, and community members to promote human rights, showcase available support services, and celebrate the resilience of women who continue to rebuild their lives through economic empowerment.
Opening the event, Park Manager Pheladi Chuene welcomed participants to the Garden Route National Park, emphasising that protected areas are not only spaces for conserving nature but also places where communities can come together to address pressing social issues and inspire positive change.
Providing an overview of the Sunrise Campaign, Naledi Masipa highlighted the programme's holistic approach to empowering women through life skills, entrepreneurship development, computer literacy, mentorship, access to business funding, monitoring and evaluation, and advocacy against GBV. "The Sunrise Campaign is about restoring dignity while creating economic opportunities for women. Economic empowerment gives survivors the confidence and independence to rebuild their lives and become leaders within their communities," said Masipa
A moving moment of silence, led by Ejustly Boshoff, honoured survivors of gender-based violence and remembered those who have lost their lives. The reflection reminded participants of the urgent need for continued collaboration to eliminate violence against women and girls.
One of the highlights of the programme was a heartfelt testimony by Sunrise Campaign participant Beatrice Ruiters, who shared how the programme transformed her confidence and strengthened her entrepreneurial journey. "The Sunrise Campaign gave me hope, practical skills and the belief that I can build a better future for myself and my family," she shared.
Reflecting on the evolution of the programme, Elsie Pietersen took participants through the Sunrise Campaign journey, highlighting its impact on women's economic empowerment, leadership development and community participation.
The programme also featured presentations from key stakeholders who outlined services available to community members. Mario Jansen from the Department of Social Development spoke about psychosocial support and victim empowerment services. Rachel Hendricks of the South African Police Service encouraged survivors to report incidents of abuse and reassured participants of SAPS' commitment to protecting victims.
Representing Team Strong Women, Linda Smit encouraged women to support one another and continue breaking the silence surrounding abuse. Yollie Mpembe from FAMSA highlighted the importance of counselling, mental health support and family strengthening services in helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
The final presentation by Nomzamo Entile from Garden Route National Park – Wilderness showcased opportunities for community engagement in environmental conservation while highlighting the park's commitment to supporting local communities.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ejustly Boshoff, who expressed appreciation to all partners, presenters and participants for contributing to a successful and impactful Human Rights Awareness Campaign.
The campaign reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, civil society and communities in advancing human rights, preventing gender-based violence and promoting women's economic empowerment. Through initiatives such as the Gender Links Sunrise Campaign, communities continue to demonstrate that sustainable change is possible when people work together.
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Department Of Social Development
(Written by Siphelele Kunene, RWVLSA intern)
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