The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Community Engagement (CE) hosted its annual Leadhership Indaba for its female volunteer champions on 12 October 2026. As South Africa is facing a Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) crisis, the aim of the event was to empower the student volunteer community against GBVF and Human Trafficking by bringing together voices from frontline workers including the South African Police (SAPS), tech innovators, entrepreneurs, civil society and academics.
The theme of the Indaba was, Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers, Breaking in the Silence.
Lebogang Ayobiojo, a CE Specialist who served as the programme director, welcomed all guests and encouraged the student volunteers to take notes that could help them or someone close to them recognize and overcome abuse.
Dr Charissa Fawole, Project Lead of the iKamva Initiative in the Department of Public Law, highlighted the importance of leadership in traditionally male-dominated fields. She encouraged female student volunteers to confidently take up space and pursue leadership opportunities, challenging societal norms that often associate such spaces with men. To inspire the next generation of leaders she said, “believe in yourself, be patient and be brave. Just keep working. Just keep doing the thing that you need to do. Maybe the title will follow. Maybe it won’t. But you are still stepping into leadership”.
The programme also featured presentations by representatives from the Brave to Love NGO, who addressed the pressing issues of GBVF and human trafficking. The speakers shed light on strategies for prevention, support, and recovery, encouraging participants to play an active role in combating these social injustices. The presentations moved the audience as survivors and former perpetrators shared their experiences, creating a powerful moment of reflection and learning for those in attendance. Their stories underscored both the far-reaching effects of abuse and the possibility of healing, transformation, and positive change.
Matau Ramapuputla, Chief Operating Officer of Moepi publishing and innovator of TEKETE SAFE Space App shared a powerful message on leadership, courage, and societal impact. She emphasised that leadership is not about titles but, values, choices, and the willingness to make a difference. Drawing from her personal journey she spoke about leaving a secure career to build a technology platform that addresses bullying, sexual harassment, and GBVF.
Through the TEKETE SAFE Space App Ramapuputla aims to provide young people with a safe and anonymous way to report abuse and violence while helping schools and communities respond proactively. She encouraged the young girls in the room to use their education, innovation, and voices to create safe communities and drive meaningful change.
Constable Nthabiseng Radebe, GBV Coordinator and Victim Friendly Room (VFR) officer at Brixton Police Station delivered a practical and awareness-driven presentation on campus safety, consent, substance abuse, and GBVF. She warned students that transitioning from home to independent campus life can expose them to risks such as sexual assault, exploitation, substance abuse, and unhealthy relationships.
Constable Radebe emphasised that consent must be given freely from both parties involved and that it is important to note that it can also be withdrawn at any time. She further highlighted how alcohol and drugs often contribute to vulnerability but stressed that intoxication is never an excuse for criminal behaviour. She encouraged the students to become active bystanders by intervening safely, seeking help, and reporting incidents promptly. She left the audience with the words, “protect yourself, know your rights, and respect the rights of others”.
Concluding the programme, Tiyani Chauke, CE Specialist, encouraged participants to carry forward the lessons shared during the event, emphasizing that collective action and community involvement are essential in combating GBVF and human trafficking.
