Take a stand against GBV at the SAWON Foundation conference

Respond to the call to “Come together to create a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and violence” by attending the festival. South Africa Notable Women (SAWON) Foundation’s annual Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Leadership Conference.

This event, supported by the National Film and Video Foundation and supported by leading figures from the entertainment and creative industries, will take place at the Durban International Convention Center on 14 November.

Whether you’re a survivor, advocate, policymaker, or simply someone who cares about gender equality, this is your opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and contribute to the fight against GBV.

The SAWON Foundation’s mission extends beyond addressing GBV; The organization is dedicated to celebrating the vital role women play in society and inspiring future female leaders.

That’s why the conference will feature influential female speakers like actress, executive producer and entrepreneur Connie Ferguson, as well as panel discussions and networking opportunities to empower women and encourage them to take on leadership roles.

The event will end with a banquet dinner themed “Invention”. Engage. Inspire”, the program features a fashion show and live entertainment by Vusi Nova, Brian Temba, Dumi Mkokstad and Zwile Bhembe.

Emphasis on deficits in the justice system

The focus of this year’s conference will be on the structural weaknesses in the legal system that often expose GBV victims to danger. SAWON CEO Lucky Unganqotshwa Mthembu emphasized the importance of confronting these issues head on.

The conference will unite key women from across the Southern African Development Community region, promoting communication and collaboration to identify practical responses.

Main themes and discussions

Common effect of GBV:

• The physical, emotional and psychological toll of GBV on individuals, families and communities.
• Economic consequences of GBV, including loss of productivity and healthcare costs.
• The intergenerational impact of GBV is that survivors often pass the trauma on to their children.

Systemic failures and justice for survivors:

• Identifying and addressing gaps in legal systems and law enforcement that impede justice for survivors.
• Exploring innovative approaches to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of survivors and promote gender equality.

Empowering women and girls:

• The importance of education, economic empowerment and access to healthcare in preventing Gender-Based Violence.
• Challenging harmful gender norms and promoting gender equality.
• Building strong, supportive communities that protect women and girls.

Leadership and social change:

• To inspire women to take on leadership roles and drive positive change.
• Promoting ethical leadership and promoting good governance.
• Promoting cooperation and partnerships to solve social problems.

Join the fight against GBV: sign up now

SAWON Foundation’s GBV and Leadership Conference serves as a platform to raise awareness, share experiences and mobilize action to combat GBV.

By bringing together different voices and perspectives, this event aims to inspire collective action and create a more equitable and just society.

Add your voice to the conversation: Visit SAWON Foundation’s website To register for the conference now or contact the organization directly via WhatsApp on 082 297 5336.

This article was supported by SAWON Foundation.