Through the SIT* process, young people and community members are guided to safely express lived experiences, identify challenges, and collectively design interventions to address poverty, substance abuse, violence, intergenerational conflict, and more.

*Systematic Inventive Thinking (SIT)—a structured creativity method that supports communities in systematically reframing challenges and inventing new solutions using local resources. This approach draws on the work of David Denborough, an Australian author and therapist known for pioneering narrative therapy in community practice

As part of its long-term commitment to systemic change, Khulisa will be rolling out this methodology by capacitating NGOs across Rustenburg over the next three years. These organisations will be trained and mentored to independently facilitate SIT dialogue circles and implement responsive, evidence-based interventions.

The ideas and innovations emerging from the first wave of SIT sessions will be officially presented at Khulisa’s 25th Anniversary Celebration in Rustenburg on 20 August 2025, where the organisation will reflect on a quarter-century of grassroots impact in the region.

Community-Driven Solutions Already Emerging

Recent SIT circles held in Paardekraal and Tlhabane have already inspired powerful youth-led initiatives, including:

• Youth Empowerment Hubs providing bridging education (ABET), job-readiness training, and psychosocial support.
• The “Grow Paardekraal” Food Security Campaign, driven by youth-led cooperative gardens and nutrition workshops.
• Wellness and Trauma Resilience Hubs delivering mental health support and life skills training.
• Youth-led Monitoring & Evaluation teams using storytelling and data to measure and shape community change.
• Skills-to-Income Sports and Recreation Programmes engaging youth through soccer, netball, and micro-enterprise activities.
• Restorative Family Strengthening Programmes supporting healing between youth and caregivers.

These initiatives reflect the strength of community wisdom and align with Khulisa’s commitment to building solutions from the ground up—owned, led, and sustained by those most affected.

Building a Rustenburg That Listens and Heals

SIT sessions in the remaining wards will be implemented in collaboration with local NGOs, SAPS, educators, traditional leaders, and youth groups. This is not a one-size-fits-all intervention—it is a grassroots journey of healing and growth.

“This is a moment for Rustenburg to rediscover the power of its people,” says Lesley Ann van Selm, Founder and Managing Director of Khulisa. “Systematic Integrated Therapy is not about treating symptoms—it’s about activating community intelligence to drive meaningful, lasting change.”

For media inquiries or to attend the 25th anniversary event or an upcoming SIT session, please contact: