The Men Carve is a pioneering non-profit organisation founded by Mr Zakhe Khuzwayo, a driven individual who is pursuing his master’s degree in business information management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics (FAI).
The Men Carve had originated as a university project in 2018, but its true purpose had only become clear during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. According to Khuzwayo, the mission of Men Carve is to embark on a transformative process of planting the seed idea of welcoming attitudes and behaviours towards women, girls, and other marginalised groups; with a particular focus on sensitively addressing and conquering the negative use of power that men have over women, thereby fostering a culture of equality, respect, and inclusivity. He indicated that the vision is to create a safer environment for women and girls by promoting healthy manhood and ensuring all males respect and value their dignity and integrity.
Mr Khuzwayo stated that amidst rising statistics of gender-based violence, domestic violence, and male suicide in South Africa, he identified a gap in existing programmes. According to him, most initiatives focused on supporting victims, but a few addressed the perpetrators, predominantly men. He claimed that this oversight sparked his passion to create a safe space for men to engage, reflect, and grow.
“Our aim is to strengthen ties with existing partners, including SA Harvest, Boxer Superstores, Blendcor, Fulfil Consulting, DUT- International Centre of Nonviolence, communities, schools, and community leaders,” he said. Additionally, they reported that they plan to engage with academic institutions, local businesses, and government departments to scale their impact.
The organisation has received significant recognition for its contributions to community development and gender-based violence awareness, receiving a total of eight prestigious awards.
Additionally, the organisation’s leaders have been individually honoured, with the Secretary General Nomzamo Mashiyane receiving the Engagement and Outreach award and Zakhe Khuzwayo winning both the Alumni Game Changer of the Year award and the Inspired Entrepreneurship award at the DUT Faculty of Accounting and Informatics Awards 2024.
He highlighted that the organisation offers a range of impactful programmes designed to promote community engagement, education, and support, including workshops/seminars, school visits, university student visits, and a food parcel programme. “These initiatives aim to educate and inspire individuals about social issues, promote healthy relationships, and empower them to become agents of change, while also addressing basic needs and promoting food security for vulnerable families and individuals,” he explained.
The Men Carve plans to engage with the DUT community and stakeholders through collaborative initiatives, working with DUT leadership, student organisation, and community leaders to host workshops, seminars, and volunteer programmes promoting inclusivity, mental health, and gender equity.
Mr Khuzwayo stated that their 2025 plan has four strategic focus areas. Programme Development, which involves refining and scaling existing programmes to reach more communities; community engagement, through hosting events and dialogues to empower youth and foster inclusivity; Partnerships, by collaborating with government, schools, universities, businesses, and NGOs to amplify impact; and awareness campaigns, utilising technology and social media to inspire and educate.
He reported that the Men Carve invites the community and stakeholders to join them in creating a future free from Gender based Violence (GBV) and inequality through their 2025 plan. He said that the aim is to empower individuals, foster understanding, and to build resilient communities, envisioning a future where men are agents of change. He further reported that they also will call on communities, stakeholders, and partners to collaborate, invest, and support their mission to create lasting impact, working together to empower individuals, foster understanding, and build safe, inclusive spaces, ultimately carving a path toward a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Nomzamo Mashiyane, Secretary General at the Men Carve, reflected on her growth, saying the platform has opened doors for her, including a facilitation programme that enhanced her soft skills in communication, leadership, and teamwork.
“I stand as a testament to the opportunities and empowerment provided by the Men Carve. I am excited for the future, knowing that this journey has equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to go even further,” added Mashiyane.
He concluded by emphasising that the Men Carve’s commitment is to create a future free from gender-based violence and inequality through their 2025 plan, highlighting the importance of collaboration and community engagement in achieving their vision.
Pictured: Standing strong and united are the representatives of the Men Carve organisation.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
