Here’s what we – the Intermediate Phase – think about gender and gender-based violence; provoked Spar’s shopping bag campaign (below) and raising money to support the Rise UP Movement.

1. Gender
Traditionally gender is a term used to describe a person based on whether they are ‘male’ or ‘female’. Interestingly, it’s not necessarily about a person’s physical characteristics but a label, created by society, as a means of categorizing / identifying people.
While sex is biological, and describes a person based on physical traits, e.g., reproductive organs, gender is about personal and social identity. Which means, whilst a person might be biologically male, they can still identify with traits culturally associated with females, for example, enjoying the colour pink, flowers, candles, or wearing stockings (like our teacher). Since ‘gender’ can be influenced by culture, religion, and family; it is distinct from biological sex.
2. Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a harmful act perpetrated against a person’s will because of their gender identity – whether they are a man, woman, child, young person or elderly – and therefore a violation of that person’s human rights. This type of violence is often rooted in power imbalances and societal norms. People might abuse their family members, friends, or even strangers, under the influence of alcohol, when their sports team loses, because of unemployment, or cultural beliefs. Examples of GBV include, but are not limited to, physical acts, e.g., hitting someone or sexual assault, such as rape. It is also possible to abuse someone spiritually, socially, emotionally and cognitively. A very scarring and mostly silent form of GBV is psychological – that quiet, insulting and threatening violence.
GBV can occur because of disagreements over gender roles, cultural expectations, or opposition to identities such as L (Lesbian) G (Gay) B (Bisexual) T (Trans) Q (Questioning) and / or + (Plus – which, we think, means ‘other’). Although men often perpetrate GBV, violence is not limited to one gender; women, can also exercise psychological abuse/controlling behaviors. GBV affects individuals, families, and entire communities, perpetuating cycles of trauma and inequality.
3. Prevention and Responding to Gender-Based Violence
Preventing and responding to gender-based violence requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies:
- Education: Providing proper education is crucial. When people are educated about what is right and wrong, they are less likely to engage in violent behaviors. Schools should be educating children in respect and equality in the prevention of GBV from an early age and religious institutions should influence the notion of patriarchy and restore through education the dignity and equality of women.
- Self-Defense: Learning self-defense can help individuals protect themselves from potential attackers. Communities can offer free self-defense classes to those who need them.
- Safe Spaces and Services: Establishing safe places for those at risk can provide refuge and support. These places can offer immediate safety and connect individuals to further resources and assistance.
- Community Initiatives: Community awareness programs can help change attitudes towards GBV. By raising awareness and promoting gender equality, communities can reduce the incidence of GBV.
- Legal Support: Strengthening legal frameworks to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable is essential. Ensuring that laws are enforced can deter potential abusers.
In summary, gender-based violence is a serious issue that requires comprehensive prevention and response strategies. By promoting education, self-defense, safe spaces, community initiatives, and legal support, we can work towards a society where gender-based violence is no longer tolerated. We can do this better together.







Photos: Seven of us ran 5km to raise funds for the Rise Up Moment.
By understanding gender, recognizing the impact of gender-based violence, and implementing effective prevention and response strategies, we can create a safer and more equitable world for all.
*Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by the students in this article do not necessarily represent the views of the organization Soul Action South Africa. While we encourage open dialogue and learning, the perspectives shared are those of the individual contributors and do not reflect the official stance or policies of Soul Action.
Soul Action South Africa is committed to promoting equality, respect, and safety for all individuals and works towards creating a society free from gender-based violence. We support educational initiatives that raise awareness and understanding of these critical issues and believe in fostering a respectful and inclusive community.