Durbanville Lions Club hosted its first Walk in Heels for Gender-based Violence (GBV) Awareness on International Women’s Day at the De Ville Centre on Saturday 8 March.
The fundraising event aimed at raising awareness of and funds for gender-based violence prevention and support services.
It encouraged men to secure sponsorships to walk laps in heels, with participants given 45 minutes to complete as many laps as possible.
“As this was the first time such an event was hosted it did not unfold exactly as planned,” said Danielle Cronje, president of Durbanville Lions Club. “Instead, we welcomed men visiting the centre to participate and contribute donations towards the cause. The primary objectives remained to raise funds and awareness, foster empathy and understanding, and actively engage with the community in the fight against gender-based violence.”
“Courage and willingness”
“We had about 15 men joining the cause,” Cronje said. “Their courage and willingness to step out of their comfort zones symbolises true ‘allyship’ in the fight against gender-based violence.
“Walking in heels may be challenging, but it’s nothing compared to the struggles faced by survivors. Their participation sends a powerful message of solidarity, empathy and commitment to change. It’s inspiring to see men take an active role in raising awareness and standing up for a cause that affects everyone.”
Why heels? “To promote empathy and understanding by encouraging men to literally and figuratively ‘walk in the shoes’ of those affected by gender-based violence, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.
“Including men in gender-based violence education is essential in creating a society where safety, respect, and equality are the norm. Men play a crucial role as allies, advocates and changemakers in challenging harmful norms, fostering empathy and promoting accountability.
“By engaging men in these conversations and initiatives we not only broaden awareness, but also encourage active participation in prevention efforts.”
“Key partners”
Although the expected funds were not raised, “exposure to this topic is more important,” she said. Proceeds will be donated to Olympians Social Development and Education, an organisation that raises awareness of gender-based violence in Fisantekraal and surrounding areas.
“Our event was supported by key partners, including the Durbanville Victim Empowerment Programme, Durbanville Community Policing Forum, Durbanville police and the Breath Foundation.
Vital information, referrals and pamphlets were shared, providing resources on different forms of abuse and where to seek help. Several women received direct referrals for assistance.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to De Ville Centre and its management, The Crazy Store, Wimpy and Virgin Active for their enthusiastic participation,” said Cronje, “and also, Designer Water and Uitzicht Pharmacy.”
For Emile Plaatjies of De Ville Centre management the event put “walking in someone else’s shoes” in perspective. He said men, especially, needed to look inwards to do more to stop this. * Anyone who wants to contribute to this cause or join Durbanville Lions Club must send an email to info.durbanvillelionsclub@gmail.com or follow the organisation on Facebook.
