The Teddy Bear teams hit the ground running for GBV month, diving headfirst into the 16 Days of Activism campaign to shine a light on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) across South Africa. With passion, purpose, and our signature teddy bear hugs, we’re out there educating, supporting, and mobilizing communities to break the cycle of violence. We kicked off the month with a powerful protest march, commemoration of victims, and celebration of survivors, held at Constitution Hill on 21 November 2025. It was an emotional gathering that set the tone for our efforts, honoring those we’ve lost, uplifting those who’ve endured, and committing to a safer future for all.

The Alarming Reality of GBV in South Africa South Africa grapples with one of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the world. According to recent data, more than one in three women over the age of 18 has experienced physical violence in their lifetime. A 2024 national study revealed that 33.1% of women have faced such abuse, while quarterly crime stats show over 10,000 rapes reported in just three months. Tragically, 15 women are killed every day, and a woman is murdered every three hours. These numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent shattered lives, families torn apart, and a national crisis that demands urgent action.

How GBV in the Home Impacts Children

When parents or caregivers are caught in the grip of gender-based violence, the ripple effects on children are profound and long-lasting. Children who witness domestic abuse often develop serious emotional and behavioral problems, including anxiety, depression, and difficulties in school. They may learn that violence is a “normal” way to resolve conflicts, leading to insecurity, fear, and a higher risk of perpetuating the cycle in their own lives.  Exposure can cause short-term issues like nightmares or withdrawal, and long-term harm such as mental health disorders or even intergenerational trauma, where maltreated parents unknowingly pass on harmful patterns to their kids. Simply put, GBV doesn’t just hurt adults it scars the innocent hearts of children, affecting their development, relationships, and future well-being.

How We at the Teddy Bear Foundation Help Children in Trauma

At the Teddy Bear Foundation, we’re dedicated to protecting and healing children who’ve been touched by trauma, including the fallout from GBV. We offer a complete, free, one-stop child protection and healing service under one roof, tailored to give kids the support they need without added stress. Our services include:

• Forensic Assessments & Court Preparation: Medico-legal evaluations and expert support to minimize retelling their stories.
• Therapeutic Services: Trauma-focused therapies like play therapy, art therapy, EMDR, and family sessions for children and non-offending caregivers.
• Diversion Programmes: Accredited rehabilitation for young people showing harmful behaviors, offering second chances over criminal records.
• Prevention & Education: School-based programs reaching over 40,000 children annually, teaching body autonomy, boundaries, and how to speak up.
• Community Outreach & Training: Equipping teachers, social workers, police, and communities to spot, respond to, and prevent abuse.
• Crisis Intervention & 24-Hour Support: Immediate help when a child discloses abuse. Everything is provided at no cost—because healing shouldn’t have a price tag. We’re here to wrap those little ones in safety and love, helping them reclaim their childhoods.

Spreading Awareness Far and Wide

Our branches have been buzzing with activity, hitting communities, schools, hospitals, and more to raise awareness and foster change. Here’s a snapshot of where we’ve been making an impact during the 16 Days:

• Tshwane Branch: We connected with kids and communities at Eersterust Community Centre on 29 November for a CPL Prevention & Awareness Talk. On 1 December, we headed to Sjagane Secondary School in Soshanguve for safety talks with learners. All month long (dates TBC), we’re delivering CPL Awareness Talks at Midstream Ridge Primary, Kwaggasrand School, Sunrise School, Christian Progressive College, and Abraham Kriel Children’s Home focusing hard on primary and special-needs schools.
• Krugersdorp Branch: Engaging the youngest minds at Swaneville’s two crèches on 25 November and 2 December with talks for “tiny humans.” Then, shifting to adults with workplace sessions at AGP Factory on 1 and 4 December, because prevention starts with everyone on the grind.
• Soweto Branch: Kicking things off at Naledi Community Hall on 25 November with a prayer session for GBV victims, focused on healing and remembrance. Community dialogues followed at Orlando on 27 November, a World AIDS Day + GBV commemoration at Zola Office on 28 November, an info-sharing drive in Protea Glen on 1 December, a Big March in Jabulani on 2 December, and a loud closing event back in Jabulani on 5 December.
• Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg Branch: Rallying neighbors at Katlehong DH Hall on 26 November for a GBVF Awareness Campaign. Double duty on 28 November with a big awareness drive and free giveaways at Helen Joseph Hospital, plus a youth workshop at Afrika Tikkun Parktown. On 3 December, stalls at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital and a deep-dive workshop at Crystal Fountain. Special sessions for women and girls at Siyazigabisa Foundation on 5 December, a massive awareness day at Afrika Tikkun Parktown on 8 December, and (TBC) a Walk Against Violence on Women & Children at Constitution Hill shoes, banners, and voices ready!
• Johannesburg and Westrand Branch: Opening with a SAFE Talk Puppet Show for kids at Afrika Tikkun Diepsloot on 25 November. Pamphlet blitz at Diepsloot Thuthuzela. Care Centre on 27 November, indoor stalls at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital on 28 November, outdoor stalls at Witpoortje Clinic on 1 December, a puppet and projector presentation at Christ Way Centre in Turffontein on 4 December, a fun puppet show with mini teddies at Ratanda Crèche on 5 December, a full GBV presentation at Afrika Tikkun Randburg on 8 December, and (TBC) a Big March/Walk in Noordgesig with SAPS and the community.

These events aren’t just talks; they’re lifelines, sparking conversations, distributing resources, and building safer spaces. From puppet shows for the little ones to marches that echo through the streets, we’re everywhere GBV tries to hide. As we continue through the 16 Days and beyond, remember: change starts with us. If you’re in South Africa, join a local event, support a survivor, or reach out if you need help. Together, we can end GBV and protect every child’s right to a violence-free life; With hope and determination!