MBOMBELA – The Mpumalanga province is grappling with rising levels of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with men often cited as primary perpetrators. Experts warn that young boys are being left behind, sparking questions about whether enough is being done to nurture them. Amidst this pressing concern, the Teach A Boy Child Foundation (TABC) has taken a significant step towards supporting and empowering young boys in Mbombela.
On Saturday, October 4, TABC hosted its inaugural ‘Teach A Boy Child’ event in the region at the Tshwane University of Technology. The event brought together young boys aged 16-21 for a transformative program addressing critical issues such as health and hygiene, relationships, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, mental wellbeing, gender-based violence, and positive masculinity.
Siyabonga Mokoena, Founder and Executive Director of Teach A Boy Child Foundation, shared the vision behind the initiative, saying, “What we really aim is to go out and mobilise young men, lobby them into being change-markers they need to be in this crying society of ours. There’s nothing like little impact, I believe the boys will take what we are giving them. The idea is to pour into the young men, so that they feel empowered.”
The event featured interactive sessions and workshops, including a talk by Clinical Psychologist Dr. Zipho Mhlongo on healthy masculinity. Given that October is Mental Health Awareness Month, Dr. Mhlongo emphasised the importance of discussing such topics to equip young boys with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life’s challenges and become responsible men.
The Teach A Boy Child Foundation’s efforts to promote positive masculinity and empower young boys are truly commendable. As the organisation continues to make a positive impact, we look forward to seeing the ripple effect of their work in the lives of young boys and their communities.
