Article
A LEGACY OF RESTORATIVE JUSTICE AND PEACEBUILDING
Since its establishment in 1997, Khulisa Social Solutions has stood as a beacon of hope and transformation, pioneering restorative justice and peacebuilding initiatives across South Africa. From its early beginnings with juvenile rehabilitation at Leeuwkop Prison to its expansive nationwide reach today, Khulisa has consistently demonstrated the power of restorative measures to rebuild lives, repair relationships, and strengthen communities.
The journey began with an innovative storytelling program that delved into the root causes of crime among juvenile offenders, including five participants from Alexandra. This initiative not only addressed their personal journeys but also planted the seeds for Khulisa’s commitment to creating community-driven solutions for conflict resolution and social cohesion.
Over the years, Khulisa has successfully mediated over 19,000 cases, achieving a victim satisfaction rate of more than 80%. These outcomes underscore the community’s growing recognition of the need for restorative approaches, which focus on healing and reconciliation, rather than punitive retribution.
A HISTORY OF TRANSFORMATION – OUR KEY MILESTONES
Khulisa’s history is marked by groundbreaking interventions and the ability to adapt to the evolving needs of South African communities:
- 1998-2000: Three offenders from Alexandra were released and trained in storytelling, motivational speaking, and community drama. Their work in local schools inspired the next wave of seven trained parolees.
- 2001: The USAID-funded Diversion Programme was piloted in Alexandra, providing mentorship for divertees, aftercare services, and family reunification.
- 2004-2008: With support from the Danish Embassy and EU, the Justice and Restoration Programme (JARP) trained community-based mediators, engaging 3,500 individuals across six locations.
- 2014-Present: With funding from the Department of Social Development and other local and international donors, Khulisa established 19 offices nationally. These hubs provide a wide range of services, including victim-offender mediation, crime prevention, LGBTQI+ support, parent programs, and community outreach.
- 2021: Following the mid-winter unrest, Khulisa facilitated peace mediation sessions with 230 community members in Alexandra, addressing the root causes of xenophobia, violence, and looting. Funded by the Solidarity Trust, this initiative has since evolved into a fully-fledged social cohesion project, reaching over 18,000 individuals.
2022-2024: To strengthen NGO capacity, Khulisa trained over 500 community members nationwide to facilitate dialogue circles focused on addressing systemic challenges.
PROFESSIONALIZING MEDIATION SERVICES
In October 2024, Khulisa enhanced its mediation expertise through Society of Mediators (SOM) accredited training. This milestone equips its staff and partners with internationally recognized skills, ensuring the organization continues to deliver high-quality, impactful restorative justice services.
COMPREHENSIVE MEDIATION AND PEACEBUILDING SERVICES
Khulisa offers an array of tailored services that address the unique needs of individuals, communities, and organizations:
- Victim-offender mediation to foster reconciliation and restitution.
- Community peace-making to resolve localized conflicts and build harmony.
- Dialogue circles that promote understanding and empathy.
- Youth leadership programs that nurture resilience and social responsibility.
- Corporate mediation to address workplace conflicts and enhance cohesion.
- LGBTQI+ support services advocating for marginalized groups.
- Parent programs that mediate family conflicts and strengthen relationships.
Through innovative platforms like its Ubuntu Clubs, which operate in over 100 communities, Khulisa has provided children with tools for dialogue, resilience, and conflict resolution.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Khulisa’s impactful work continues to gain the support of local and international partners, enabling the organization to expand its reach and deepen its influence. By championing restorative justice over retributive measures, Khulisa is redefining the pathways to peace and cohesion in South Africa. Its unwavering dedication to fostering healing and understanding serves as a model for communities worldwide.
As Khulisa continues to bridge divides and rebuild trust, its legacy stands as a testament to the power of restorative practices in creating sustainable social change.
About us
Khulisa Social Solutions is a non-profit company that helps vulnerable children, youth, and communities unlock their potential and develop skills toward a sustainable future.
It operates nationally, employs approximately 200 staff through 19 offices, and works in approximately 150 communities in collaboration with 350 NGO partners, impacting the lives of close to 200,000 people per annum.
Khulisa partners with national and local government departments, schools, correctional facilities, community leaders, corporates, thought leaders, academic institutions, and private companies. Khulisa’s internationally acclaimed and locally rewarded best practice programmes deliver positive and measurable impact with the main focus on youth and community development.
For more information, contact
Lesley Ann Van Selm | 082 601 2299 | lesleyann@khulisa.org.za | media@khulisa.org.za
