Bisexual and Transgender women. In African Culture they are not always accepted. In reality lesbian is seen as not African. The Luleki Sizwe “Discipline the Nation” LBT Women’s Project seeks to change this existing negative perception and simultaneously address the needs of black LBT women in urban and rural townships. A lot of them are experiencing rape. These so-called “corrective rapes” result in them becoming HIV positive. Programmes offered include medical care for recent victims, advocacy programmes and Human Rights lobbying.
In similar vein, Rock Girls partners with design, travel and media industries to create safe spaces for girls and women. Rock Girls seek to reduce violence against women through creation of safe spaces. Girls should stay in school and women are encouraged to become economically independent, healthy risk-free lives. This Grassroots movement inspires, encourages and invest in girl-initiated and girl- focused projects in private and public sectors. Their first project Safe Spaces has resulted in 56 Safe Space Public benches. The new project BRAVE launched in June 17 amplifies the voices of BRAVE girls around the world who are speaking out against the discrimination and violence they face every day. They have not only found an innovative way of raising awareness against gender based violence, but are also seeking to find common solutions to challenges whilst providing practical training.
Another inventive entrepreneur is Xolisa Bangani . This Gardener /Artist/Poet/ Rapper/ is showcasing gardening as a landscaping art. His Ikhaya-Kulture: “Home” Ikhaya Garden is making gardening cool and fun for the youth by combining it with recycling and art. The idea is to promote a healthy lifestyle, while creating environmental awareness programs. He serves his community with passion.
The Amy Foundation signifies how far we have come. Amy Biehl, an American student, worked at the Community Law Centre on the new Constitution, Women’s Rights and to help register voters for the first free election in 1994. Political mob violence resulted in her untimely death. The men convicted of her murder were granted amnesty through her parents and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. This non-profit organization, founded by her parents, offers educational and cultural programmes, music and sport to empower the youth. Two of the men granted amnesty joined Amy’s mom, Linda Biehl, in working for the Foundation. They still work together today-remarkable.
Uthando represents the progress that has been made; it represents the possibility of a better future for all. Let’s strive to live like Uthando. In parting please watch this video and remember the great Nelson Mandela’s words: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Click here for more information
Our guest writer from South Africa, Bernadette Erasmus writes a blog Kaleidoscope.
The Sinovuyo “We are Happy” Old Age Group
Rock Girls creates safe spaces for girls and women
Xolisa Bangani