The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Gender Forum recently hosted a deeply impactful Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness Workshop at Garden Court Marine Parade, under the theme: “Not Just Numbers: Voices, Stories, and Action Against GBV in South Africa.”

The workshop was aimed to move beyond statistics and headlines, creating a space where participants could connect, reflect, and confront the realities of GBV in a personal and meaningful way. It was a day rooted in empathy, truth-telling, and the shared commitment to ending gender-based violence in all its forms.

The session began with a warm welcome from Dr N Ramroop, Equity and Skills Coordinator for the DUT Gender Forum, who set the tone for the day by emphasising the importance of safe spaces and collective learning. The DUT Human Capital Services followed, offering insight into the university’s mental health and wellness support structures available to both staff and students.

The workshop was expertly facilitated by Dr Kylah Forbes-Biggs, whose wealth of experience in gender justice, trauma-informed practice, and community engagement brought depth and authenticity to the training. Her interactive and inclusive approach kept participants actively engaged throughout the day, whether in silent reflection, group discussion, or symbolic exercises.

Key moments included:

• The “One in Three” symbolic awareness activity, highlighting the shocking prevalence of GBV in South Africa.
• The “What We Live(d)” immersive audio experience, a powerful and emotional tribute to survivors, followed by two minutes of silence in their honour.
• The Knowledge Spectrum Activity, which challenged participants to examine their beliefs, discomforts, and assumptions in a structured, yet open dialogue.
• The Interactive Dialogue: “Breaking the Silence”, which allowed attendees to anonymously voice the reasons many choose not to disclose abuse-fostering empathy and understanding.
• The World Café Session, where participants rotated through themed tables to discuss different dimensions of GBV, capturing ideas and sharing strategies for action.
• The emotionally charged Message Wall Activity: “To Those Who’ve Lived It…”, where heartfelt messages of solidarity, grief, and support were displayed as part of the Wall of Truth & Healing.

In her closing remarks, Ronelle Lyson, PR and Marketing Coordinator for the DUT Gender Forum, left participants with a powerful message of continued advocacy and hope: “Awareness is only the beginning. There are many ways to continue advocating, empowering, and standing up against all forms of injustice. We encourage the DUT community to stay engaged and join us for the upcoming Anti-Human Trafficking Walk on 4 October 2025. Your voice and presence matter.”

The DUT Gender Forum extends heartfelt thanks to DUT Human Capital Services for their unwavering support and partnership in making this workshop possible. Their commitment to human dignity, wellness, and social justice plays a vital role in fostering a safer, more conscious university environment.

Pictured: Attendees at the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness Workshop.

Ronelle Lyson