MEDIA RELEASE
EMPOWERING HEALING AND ADVOCACY
LGBTQIA+ RAPE SURVIVORS LEAD THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF DIALOGUE CIRCLES FOR VULNERABLE GROUPS DURING 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GBV
RELEASE DATE: 28 November 2024
28 November 2024 – Johannesburg — In a deeply significant and courageous effort marking the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence (GBV), three LGBTQIA+ rape survivors, none of whom have ever seen their rapists brought to justice, stepped forward to facilitate the first in a planned series of dialogue circles aimed at empowering marginalized groups, including women, children and people living with disabilities. Hosted by Khulisa Social Solutions’ “OUT” (Owning our Truths) program, the inaugural session engaged 35 attendees in transformative discussions around social inclusion, advocacy, and protection.
This initiative represents a powerful act of resistance and resilience by survivors who continue to live with the scars of their trauma in a society that has yet to hold their perpetrators accountable. Despite the absence of justice in their own lives, these individuals are determined to lead conversations that challenge systemic failures, confront stigma, and foster healing within their communities.
Revealing Critical Challenges in Vulnerable Communities
The dialogue circles highlighted the pressing challenges faced by vulnerable groups in Alexandra. Participants emphasized the urgent need to raise awareness about sexuality, particularly among elderly community members unfamiliar with LGBTQIA+ identities. Other rape survivors expressed frustration over the lack of community and institutional support for victims of GBV, underscoring a persistent gap in resources and understanding. The discussions also revealed that people living with disabilities are at heightened risk of victimization due to their inability to advocate for themselves. Additionally, participants raised concerns about the inadequate protection of children, who are often threatened and intimidated into silence after experiencing abuse. A significant gender orientation gap in township communities further perpetuates discrimination and exclusion.
Transformative Impact of the Session
Participants shared heartfelt feedback, underscoring the session’s transformative influence:
- “The session was informative, especially about LGBTQIA+ issues.”
- “This gave me a platform to vent and find my voice.”
- “As a woman, I feel hopeful we can protect our children from GBV after this.”
- “These dialogues have helped me start to heal. We are going through so much, but this gives us a way to deal with our pain.”
- “I’ve learned how to say NO and protect myself from perpetrators.”
A Commitment to Healing and Advocacy: First of Many Dialogues
This event marks the beginning of an ongoing series of dialogue circles that will address critical social issues in Alexandra and beyond. Each session will build on the insights and momentum generated, creating safe spaces for survivors and community members to engage, heal, and advocate for change. The ‘OUT’ initiative is set to extend its impact beyond Alexandra, with plans to train Master Trainers by mid-2024. These trainers will replicate the program’s success in schools and other communities, addressing bullying, discrimination, and mental health challenges. Partnerships with local NGOs and schools will ensure long-term sustainability, fostering a ripple effect of empowerment and resilience.
About the OUT Project
The ‘OUT’ project, led by Khulisa Social Solutions, is dedicated to empowering LGBTQIA+ survivors of rape and gender-based violence through creative expression, healing, and advocacy. This transformative initiative provides survivors with the tools to facilitate support groups, lead dialogue circles, and create safe spaces for healing within their communities. Through reflective practices, creative writing, and restorative dialogue, the ‘OUT’ project helps survivors process their trauma, build resilience, and advocate for their rights. The project also aims to challenge the systemic barriers that perpetuate violence and exclusion by fostering social inclusion, raising awareness, and promoting justice for marginalized groups.
Khulisa Social Solutions
Khulisa Social Solutions is a non-profit organization dedicated to driving social change through innovative and evidence-based programs. With over 27 years of experience, Khulisa works to build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities by addressing systemic inequalities and empowering individuals. From restorative justice initiatives to community capacity-building projects, Khulisa’s mission is to create sustainable impact and provide vulnerable populations with the tools they need to thrive.
Meet our OUT Ambassador - Siphosethu Sibelekwana
Siphosethu Sibelekwana is a 32-year old lady from Alexandra. She is a facilitator, freelance trainer and a committed human rights activist.
Siphosethu has a background in public relations and extensive experience working with various organizations on activism projects. She moved to Johannesburg to deepen her impact in community development and advocacy. As a member of the LGBTQI+ community and a survivor of rape, she brings a unique and resilient perspective to her work, which is both professional and profoundly personal. Her mission is to create transformative spaces for learning and growth, fostering empowerment and resilience through training, dialogue, and community-centred advocacy.
Over the past year, she has been actively working with Khulisa, where she is a key player in the women’s empowerment program in Alexandra titled “OUT.” This program is dedicated to creating a sanctuary where marginalized women, including those from diverse backgrounds and identities, can find support and solidarity. Through counselling, dialogue circles and creative writing, “OUT” aims to establish ongoing support groups that help these women reclaim their voices and empower themselves to move forward. The program addresses social isolation and emotional healing, creating a platform for women to connect, share, and grow together.
Her work within “OUT” and other initiatives with Khulisa Social Solutions allows her to bridge advocacy and action in spaces that value inclusivity and understanding. By creating safe environments where women feel respected, supported and encouraged, they are taking tangible steps toward transforming lives and communities. She believes that every individual, regardless of background or identity, deserves a place to belong, heal and thrive, and this drives her commitment to community-centred change and resilience.
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
