https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/ground-breaking-movie-inspires-boys-to-be-anti-gbv-champions/
Empowering Young Men
South Africa celebrates Women’s Month while addressing gender violence through the “What About The Boys?” initiative. This initiative seeks to not only acknowledge the achievements of South African women but also confront the persistent issue of violence against them
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Movie Launch and Education Program
On August 12, the “What About The Boys?” movie kicked off a nationwide initiative aimed at educating high school boys. This program, which spans several months, involves the participation of over 15,000 high school boys from across the country. The launch event in Johannesburg was attended by boys from Liberty Community School and the NGO Rays of Hope.

Multimedia Engagement
The “What About The Boys?” program comprises a comprehensive approach to engage boys in meaningful conversations. It includes educational booklets, online resources, and ongoing mentorship sessions. These resources are designed to delve into discussions about boys’ identities, the redefinition of masculinity, and the critical issue of gender-based violence, shedding light on its consequences.

Challenging Stereotypes
The central goal of this annual program, initially launched in 2022, is to challenge prevailing stereotypes and norms. It aims to combat toxic masculinity and harmful stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women. Moreover, the program seeks to redefine traditional expectations of manhood by introducing positive male role models who promote and exemplify healthy, respectful relationships.

Creating Allies
Martin Sweet, the Managing Director of youth development specialist Primestars, highlights the significance of engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against gender-based violence. Their active involvement can lead to transformative changes in societal norms and attitudes, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for women.
Enhancements for 2023

For the 2023 rollout, Primestars has announced substantial enhancements based on the results of a monitoring, evaluation, and learning strategy. These enhancements include expanding the program’s presence in schools, increasing the involvement of MENtors (mentors for young men), and a deeper commitment to evaluation and impact assessment.

Positive Impact
The monitoring and evaluation process conducted with the first cohort of “What About The Boys?” beneficiaries yielded promising results. It showcased a positive shift in behaviour and attitudes related to bullying, violence, and sexual harassment in participating schools.

Long-Term Goals
The program’s long-term goals include the establishment of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) councils at schools. These councils aim to encourage youth to collaborate and advocate against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).

A Safer Future
In conclusion, the “What About The Boys?” initiative strives to create a safer environment for women, promote gender equity and respect, and ultimately contribute to a society where violence against women is no longer tolerated. It marks a significant step towards building a better, more equitable future for all.

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