SONKE GENDER JUSTICE Johannesburg

Sonke Gender Justice is a prominent South African NGO that works across Africa to promote gender equality and end gender-based violence (GBV). While much of their work involves high-level advocacy and policy change, they are deeply rooted in community-level support. They use a "rights-based approach," meaning they focus on ensuring that survivors know their legal rights and that the government is held accountable for protecting those rights.

What They Offer Survivors

Legal Literacy and Paralegal Support Sonke provides survivors with "legal literacy"—helping you understand the laws that protect you, such as the Domestic Violence Act. They offer paralegal support to help survivors navigate the justice system, which can often be intimidating and complex.

Rights Education for Vulnerable Groups They provide specialized support and rights education for survivors who may face double-stigma, including refugees, migrants, sex workers, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Community-Based Support and "One Man Can" Sonke is world-renowned for its "One Man Can" campaign, which works directly with men and boys in communities to challenge the root causes of violence. For a survivor, this means Sonke is working to change the environment around you by educating men to be allies and preventing future violence.

Men’s Wellness Centers In areas like Gugulethu, they run wellness centers that provide health screenings and safe spaces for dialogues, helping to build healthier, non-violent communities.

Digital Support Tools They have developed digital tools like the GenG Engage app to provide information and resources directly to those who need them.