The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) annual international campaign is currently underway (25 November – 10 December) and aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls. Gender-based violence remains the most far-reaching human rights violation in the world, affecting 1 in 3 women —a figure that has remained largely unchanged over the last 10 years. It’s estimated that more than 5 women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family and less than 40% of women who experience violence seek help of any sort.
As part of its 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign, Impilo Protection and Adoption Services, the beneficiary organisation of FLM Nicolway, hosted an event on 24 November. In support of this important cause, FLM colleagues Ridhwana Shaik, CSI Rep and Cathy Losper, Cash Desk Controller, attended the event, adding a sweet touch by generously providing delicious doughnuts.
Impilo is a certified child protection organisation, specialising in national and intercountry adoptions. They focus on providing temporary safe care for orphaned, vulnerable, or abandoned children, with the goal of swift placement into permanent family environments. Serving around 150 children, primarily under 6 years old, the organisation prioritises family reunification whenever possible. With offices in Fairvale, Johannesburg, and satellites in Johannesburg, Sedibeng, and Ekurhuleni, they emphasise family placement within two years, ensuring a 98% success rate through careful screening and monitoring.
Beyond the delectable treats, the event marked the initiation of a significant partnership between Impilo and McCain Foods – who together are embarking on a mission to create care bags for women who have experienced the trauma of pregnancy through rape. Serving as a beacon of support in the critical first months of motherhood, these care bags aim to assist young mothers who are uncertain about placing their babies in the Impilo home.
As we observe 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), it’s vital to acknowledge the proactive efforts of organisations such as Impilo. Their dedication not only provides a safe haven for those in need but also serves as a catalyst for crucial conversations surrounding gender-based violence.
FLM’s Ridhwana Shaik says, “The event served as a powerful reminder that our combined efforts can have a lasting impact and that together we can make a difference”.
While we commemorate 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, let’s raise our voices against all forms of violence and draw inspiration from Ridhwana and Cathy’s empathy to build a safer, compassionate community. Let’s also unite in solidarity and continue to support initiatives that bring positive change to the lives of those who need it the most.
