Meet Lebo*, a 17-year-old from Thaba Nchu who recently took part in Boikucho's Men and Boys Dialogue at Noga Post near Bloemfontein. The project is supported by the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.
Growing up in a community where violence, harmful stereotypes, and a lack of positive male role models are common realities, Lebo joined other boys and men in a safe space for honest conversations about masculinity, identity, and belonging.
Through the dialogue, participants reflected on the pressures boys face and explored healthier ways to express themselves, build relationships, and navigate challenges.
These conversations matter. By creating spaces where boys can be heard, supported, and guided, we can help break cycles of violence and build stronger, more hopeful futures for the next generation.
*AI-generated image used to protect the identity of c#YouthMonthY#nmcf30yearsM#servelikemadibaLikeMadiba
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Join us today as Samkelisiwe Mnguni, Programme Manager for Youth Leadership at the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, speaks on SABC 2's "Eintlek Let's Connect" about the growing crisis of violence against children and what South Africa must do to better protect its youngest citizens.
📺 SABC2
🕟 16:30 today
The discussion will explore the rise in child-on-child sexual violence, the gaps in our child protection systems, online safety risks, and why protecting children requires action from all of us. All part of #ChildProtectionWeek.
#YouthMonth #NMCF30Years #ServeLikeMadiba
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Meet Lwandle & Lwandile, at just 11 years old, twin siblings from Umlazi have learned that violence and bullying are not normal and should never be accepted. Through the support of Trulife's GBV workshops, funded to reach 3,833 learners across 16 schools, they gained the knowledge and confidence to recognise violence, speak up, and seek help when needed.
The programme equipped both learners and teachers with practical tools to create safer school environments. As a result, 74% of participants reported a better understanding of gender-based violence, 82% became aware of reporting pathways, and confidence to take action against violence increased by 28%.
By empowering children to challenge harmful behaviours and supporting teachers to safeguard their learners, the programme is helping to build safer schools, stronger communities, and brighter futures for South Africa's children. #ChildProtectionWeek #EndViolenceAgainstChildren #NMCF30Years #ServeLikeMadiba
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As we mark #InternationalChildrensDay and #ChildProtectionWeek, we are reminded that this year's theme, "Peace is the Foundation of Respecting and Protecting Children's Rights", starts with creating environments where children feel safe, supported, and heard.
For a 13-year-old boy, Thabo, growing up in a community affected by violence often meant living with fear and anger. Through the Surf Therapy programme supported by the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, he found a safe space to heal, build confidence, and develop healthy ways to manage his emotions.
Today, Thabo is doing better at school, resolving conflict positively, and looking towards the future with hope. His story is a reminder that protecting children is not only about preventing harm. It is about creating opportunities for children to heal, grow, and thrive. Every child deserves that chance.
Every R100 donation enables a child to participate in a Child Protection Programme. Donate now: www.nelsonmandelachildrensfund.com/donate-now/ #NMCF30Years #ServeLikeMadiba
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Today marks the start of Child Protection Week.
This year’s theme, “Working together in ending violence against children”, is a reminder that protecting children cannot rest on one person, organisation, or system alone. It takes families, communities, schools, government, civil society, and all of us working together to create safer environments for children.
Every child deserves to grow up free from violence, neglect, abuse, and exploitation. And every child deserves to be heard, protected, and supported.
As the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund marks 30 years of advocating for children’s rights, we remain committed to building a society where children are safe and able to thrive.
Every R100 donation enables a child to participate in a Child Protection Programme. Donate now: www.nelsonmandelachildrensfund.com/donate-now/
#ChildProtectionWeek #NMCF30Years #ServeLikeMadiba
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Still thinking about Friday night in Cannes… From performances by Rene Idowu and Debbie Sledge, to the powerful moments spotlighting the work and voices of children, it was a beautiful evening centred around connection, generosity, and shared purpose.
Here are a few moments from the evening. ✨
#nmcf30years #servelikemadiba #cannesfilmfestival
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A special night for the children. ✨ Thank you to everyone who joined us in Cannes and continues to support the work of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. From the performances to the conversations and all the beautiful moments in between, it was an evening we won’t forget.
#NMCF30Years #ServeLikeMadiba #CannesFilmFestival
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