Dignity Defenders: Combatting Gender Based Violence in South Africa

The Dignity Defenders Workshop and Campaign represents a critical and highly effective values-based movement to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in Gauteng, South Africa. The 2025 programme successfully engaged a total of 467 male learners (ages 13–16) and 35 educators across two focused phases. The overall goal, to equip boys with the knowledge, values, and emotional intelligence to lead lives of dignity, empathy, and responsibility, was demonstrably achieved, positioning these young men as powerful agents of change and protectors in their schools and communities, in direct support of SDGs 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice).


The initial phase, a transformative three-day residential camp in June, targeted 120 high school boys with an intensive curriculum focused on consent, self-regulation, and healthy masculinity. A powerful attitudinal shift in leadership, confidence in speaking out against wrong, and a remarkable shift in viewing HIV testing as a responsible, leadership-oriented act. The programme’s innovative approach, which included contributions from the Departments of Justice, South African Police Service (SAPS), and Health, delivered holistic tools to challenge peer pressure, define personal boundaries, and build a positive self-identity.


The Dignity Defenders Campaign continued to build powerful momentum. Following a transformative boy’s camp session in June 2025, the campaign entered its follow-up phase, which looked at a school rollout phase on 10 and 11 September, reaching two Special Education Needs schools, Sizanani Special School in Bronkhorstspruit and Adelaide Tambo School in Soweto.


Over two afternoons, 347 boys with a mild intellectual disability (MID) and their male educators stepped into safe, affirming spaces where kindness, courage, and emotional intelligence were celebrated as everyday superpowers. These sessions were not just educational, they were deeply personal, emotionally intelligent, and value-driven. Coordinated by NAPTOSA in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Education and facilitated by The Art of Wellbeing (TAOW), Metrokids Africa, and Tranquillity Rehab. Together, these partners delivered a programme that was structured, impactful, and deeply aligned with the national call to end gender-based violence.


Each session was thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of learners with MID, ensuring that every boy could engage meaningfully and leave with tools they could truly use. The facilitation wasn’t just informative, it was transformative, leaving lasting impressions and sparking real shifts in self-awareness and behaviour.


These sessions didn’t just teach; they connected, resonated, and equipped. They gave boys language for their emotions, courage to challenge harmful norms, and practical ways to live out dignity every day.


Symbols of strength: dignity you can hold, kindness you can wear

Every learner left the session with more than just ideas, they carried tangible reminders of their worth.

Learners were gifted a Dignity Defender ribbon, boldly printed with affirmations like ‘I Am a Dignity Defender’ and ‘Kindness is My Superpower.’ These ribbons weren’t just accessories, they were wearable pledges. They symbolised each boy’s commitment to speak with empathy, act with courage, and protect the dignity of others.

The ribbon became a badge of belonging and a visible reminder that dignity is not just a concept, it’s a choice lived out in words, actions, and how we treat ourselves and those around us.


Raising protectors: practical tools for real-world change

By the end of the sessions, each boy walked away with more than knowledge; they left with tools to live out dignity in daily life. Through emotionally intelligent facilitation, learners were empowered to:

  • Build self-respect through positive self-talk and kindness
  • Stand up to bullying and reject harmful masculinity
  • Make informed, healthy choices that protect their futures
  • Support one another as allies in safe, respectful school environments


These sessions reinforced a powerful truth: real strength is found in dignity, empathy, and responsibility. The boys were not just taught, they were transformed into defenders of what matters most.

This rollout marks a significant step forward in the Dignity Defenders journey, which began in 2024 and is already shaping the next generation of kindness-driven leaders. These boys now walk through their schools and communities as Dignity Defenders, carrying a message that dignity matters and every word counts. Together, we are building a future where no learner stands alone and dignity is defended by all.


While challenges remain, particularly sustaining the impact against peer pressure and expanding parental involvement, the programme has established a proven model for proactive GBV prevention. The Dignity Defenders movement has moved beyond a single workshop to become a sustainable, replicable strategy that is actively shaping the next generation of accountable, kind- driven leaders. We are committed to building upon this foundation, ensuring that the legacy of dignity and respect championed by The Steve Sinnott Foundation continues to grow across South African schools.


By Michelle Mosupye

Executive Officer National Professional Teachers Organisation of South Africa

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button

  • Slide title

    Write your caption here
    Button
Michelle Mosupye • January 22, 2026

STEM programs in Haiti

By Ann Beatty • February 14, 2026
On 23rd January at the Cima Community School of Hope (ECEC), the first workshop was held with the first group of students as part of the STEM program. This activity marks a promising start to the program's implementation. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is crucial for children because it fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity from a young age. It nurtures natural curiosity, helps children understand the modern world, and builds resilience through hands-on experimentation. Additionally, early STEM exposure prepares them for future academic and career success. A total of 20 students participated in this first session. The session focused on a general presentation of the importance of computer programming in today's world. The students were also introduced to the Scratch software interface, an educational tool well-suited for teaching children programming. This initial experience went smoothly and generated considerable interest and strong motivation among the students.

Make This Spring the Season You Secure Your Legacy

By Steve Sinnott • February 14, 2026
At the Steve Sinnott Foundation, we know that planning for the future is one of the most important things you can do for the people and causes you care about. That’s why we’re delighted to offer our staff and volunteers the opportunity to write or update their will this Spring. Whether you’ve been meaning to get started for years, or you simply need to make a few updates, this is the perfect time to take that important step. Join Our Free Will Writing Webinar To help you get started, we’ve partnered with expert estate planners Octopus Legacy , who will be hosting a free webinar(s) covering everything you need to know about writing or updating your will. Staff & Volunteers 12pm, Thursday 5th March Online via Zoom - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uvirWft7S12lJUby6oUtnQ#/registration Supporters 12pm, Tuesday 10th March Online via Zoom - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xxJNZd6ZQYKMOs-2fNz0Gg#/registration During the session, you’ll learn: Why it’s important to have an up-to-date will What to consider when writing or updating your will The different types of will-writing services available How Lasting Powers of Attorney work and why they matter How to claim your free will this Spring This webinar is designed to make what can feel like a complex process simple, clear and manageable. Why Having a Will Matters Having an up-to-date will ensures your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. Without one, the law decides how your estate is distributed and that may not reflect what you would have wanted. A will gives you peace of mind. It allows you to: Provide clarity and security for your family Appoint guardians for children if needed Make specific gifts to individuals or causes Ensure your estate is handled efficiently Updating your will is just as important as writing one. Life changes marriages, children, property purchases, or changes in circumstances can all affect your wishes. Claim Your Free Will This Spring As part of this initiative, eligible staff and volunteers will have the opportunity to claim a free will-writing service. Full details will be shared during the webinar, including how to access this benefit. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. Writing or updating your will is one of the most responsible and caring decisions you can make for yourself and for those you care about. Register Now Spaces are available now, simply register using the link below: Staff & Volunteers - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uvirWft7S12lJUby6oUtnQ#/registration Supporters - https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xxJNZd6ZQYKMOs-2fNz0Gg#/registration We hope you’ll join us on Thursday 5th March and take this positive step towards securing your future.

The Foundation supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

By Kaylem James • February 3, 2026
In my time as an assistant at The Steve Sinnott Foundation (SSF), one of my research tasks was looking into how the Foundation contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I really believe in the work of the Foundation and I have also been raising funds as I believe that every child must have the right to education. SSF is a UK-based educational charity focused on promoting quality education worldwide. It plays a supportive role in achieving the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 4: (Quality Education), but its work contributes to several others as well. Here's how the Foundation supports the SDGs: Goal 4 – Quality education (core focus) The Foundation's main mission is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. It supports teachers and educational initiatives in developing countries. It runs programmes like: The Education for All Campaign – advocating for universal access to education. Teacher empowerment projects – providing training and resources to educators in under-resourced countries. Girls' education programmes – encouraging and supporting girls to stay in school and complete their education. Goal 3 – Good health and well-being Through education, particularly health-related programmes, the Foundation contributes to raising awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and mental health. The Foundation has developed a range of webinars to promote health and wellbeing and these can be found on YouTube. Goal 5 – Gender equality The Foundation promotes girls' education, directly addressing barriers that prevent girls from accessing and completing school. It advocates for the rights of women and girls, especially in patriarchal or disadvantaged societies. Goal 8 – Decent work and economic growth By improving access to education and vocational training, the Foundation helps create employment opportunities. Educated individuals have better chances of securing decent work. Goal 10 – Reduced inequalities It supports marginalised groups, including children in rural or conflict-affected areas, contributing to reducing global inequalities in education. Goal 16 – Peace, justice and strong institutions Promotes education as a force for peace and conflict resolution. Supports democratic participation and awareness through educational programmes that foster community engagement. Goal 17 – Partnerships for the goals Collaborates with NGOs, unions, schools, and governments to deliver and advocate for education projects. Builds international partnerships to achieve the SDGs through education. Summary While The Steve Sinnott Foundation's primary focus is on Goal 4, it contributes to many of the SDGs by empowering communities through education, particularly: Gender equality (Goal 5), Health (Goal 3), Economic growth (Goal 8), Reducing inequality (Goal 10), Peace (Goal 16), and Partnerships (Goal 17).  The Foundation’s programmes also contribute to the achievement of other SDGs through the power of the provision of education and life-long learning; 1. No Poverty, 2. Zero Hunger, 13. Climate Action. We believe that all of the 17 SDGs are only achievable by ensuring that all children, wherever they are born, deserve the human right of quality education. Over 250 million children are still out of school and the global out-of-school population has reduced by only 1% in nearly ten years, according to the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report 2024. There is still much work to do in achieving equitable and quality Education for All.