Brits, South Africa – The Big Brothers Hug Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its “Bowling for Change” campaign, an initiative designed to raise awareness and address critical social issues such as men’s mental health, gender-based violence (GBV), women abuse, and human trafficking. The campaign will feature a series of events, educational workshops, and a cricket tournament to engage and educate the community.
Following the release of the second-quarter crime statistics for 2023/2024, in SA there’s been recorded 10,516 rapes, 1,514 cases of attempted murder, and 14,401 assaults reported cases of GBV. These alarming statistics represent a significant threat to the safety and well-being of South Africans, indicating a high prevalence of gender-based violence and other serious crimes. Therefore, it’s crucial for every citizen to be concerned about this situation, as it directly impacts their communities and daily lives. The implementation of accessible educational programs is a step forward, aiming to empower individuals with knowledge and tools to combat these issues, contributing to a safer environment for all.
The campaign will be integrated into several projects, such as:
Video Messages: Powerful video messages from renowned South African cricketer Aaron Phangiso and the boys from Phangiso C.A.P Academy. These videos highlight the importance of mental health, the impact of GBV, and the dangers of human trafficking.
Engagement with Special Schools: Interactive sessions within the Madibeng Municipality to educate students on mental health, GBV, and human trafficking. Content is tailored to meet the specific needs of different age groups and educational levels.
Workshops and Seminars: Organized with the help of mental health professionals and advocates, these sessions promote a culture of support and understanding within the community. Topics include coping strategies, support systems, and ways to combat GBV and human trafficking.
Cricket Tournament: A one-day event during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, designed to bring the community together and further promote the campaign’s message. The tournament will involve local cricket teams and community members, featuring educational stalls and activities to raise awareness.
School Visitations: Ongoing visits to various schools to provide educational workshops and interactive sessions focused on building resilience, understanding mental health, and recognizing and preventing GBV and human trafficking.
Quote from Tshepiso James Kwakwa, Founder of Big Brothers Hug Foundation: “We are thrilled to launch the ‘Bowling for Change’ campaign, which addresses some of the most pressing issues in our community today. By combining the power of sports, education, and community engagement, we aim to foster a supportive environment and drive meaningful change.”
