Empowerment Self-Defense Program

The Empowerment Self-Defense Program, funded by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), has provided nearly 500 adolescents in the Siphofaneni area with knowledge on gender-based violence, mental health, and suicide prevention. This initiative has equipped participants with a deeper understanding of power dynamics, tools to minimize abuse and violence, the ability to recognize threatening situations early, and techniques to end assaults. The self-defense class has imparted participants with the necessary skills to boost confidence and reduce the risk of sexual assault. Furthermore, they have learned crucial techniques to protect themselves in dangerous situations. Additionally, participants have received mental health support through counseling services.

Gender equality is a fundamental factor in addressing gender-based violence, making it crucial to educate boys and girls about gender equality and gender norms. One of the key topics covered in the Empowerment Self-Defense Program was Consent and Boundaries. Teaching boys about personal boundaries, bodily autonomy, and mutual respect from a young age helps prevent coercive behaviors later in life and instills in them the understanding that "no" means "no." Encouraging boys to recognize, express, and validate emotions fosters empathy and helps them respect others' feelings and boundaries.