As part of the 2024 edition of this first-of-its-kind GBV-prevention programme, Sasol and Primestars hosted a special screening of the ‘What About The Boys?’ movie at the Ster-Kinekor complex at Secunda Mall in Mpumalanga.
It was a day filled with inspiration and a shared vision to forge a safe tomorrow.
Adolescent males in South Africa face a challenging environment, with a myriad of social issues impacting their development. Poverty, teenage pregnancy, bullying, low self-esteem, and parental unemployment are prevalent challenges affecting learners’ academic performance in secondary schools.
Challenges in their hostile living environments, including negative peer pressure, bullying, and a lack of social support, call for interventions involving positive role models, self-esteem development, and strong family and community support Collectively, these issues emphasize the need for a more supportive and inclusive environment to nurture the potential of young men in South Africa.
Harmful stereotypes can be as detrimental to men and young boys as they are to women and the girl child.
16 May marked International Day of The Boy Child, which advocates the very ethos of ‘What About The Boys? ‘in mentoring young men on social equality as well as a priority focus on the well-being and development of the boy child.
Statistics suggest that boys are struggling at home and in school and therefore need more support and guidance than ever before. Taking into consideration that generally, boys’ maturity on all levels is often 18 months to 2 years behind most girls, the critical argument is that more needs to be done in re-evaluating the traditional yet seemingly toxic notions of masculinity.
The societal expectations of masculinity that promote aggression, dominance, and emotional suppression are outdated and unhealthy. By challenging toxic masculinity, the first-of-its-kind GBV-preventative ‘What About The Boys? seeks to redefine what it means to be a good man.
“What About the Boys?” was designed to help boys redefine masculinity by teaching them to share emotions in healthy ways, accept and connect with others, manage emotional triggers, stand up and speak out against bullying and inequality and break free from rigid stereotypes.
As a socially responsible corporate and community developer, Sasol is forging a safer and more equitable society for future generations. A key partner to the ‘What About The Boys?’ programme, Sasol along with Primestars and other action-leaders continue to empower tangible change in the fight against gender-based violence.
‘”Enough is enough, and we are empowering young men to be ambassadors for good in their communities and society. Our young men are a key component in the battle against gender-based violence that has caused so much societal damage.” – Mashudu Ndou, Sasol Head of Community Affairs, Secunda Operations
“In this Movement For Change we are redefining masculinity and supporting boys on their journey to becoming good men! Forging a society where every man, boy, woman and girl know that equality, dignity and respect are rights not privileges” – Nkosinathi Moshoana, Primestars Chief Operating Officer.
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