In a country where children and young people are far too often victims of unspeakable violence, Afrika Tikkun, a leading non-profit organisation, is calling on every South African to take a stand during Child Protection Week 2025, under the urgent and timely theme: “Every Conversation Matters.”
The devastating cases of children like Cwecwe, and more recently Olerato Phali, a brilliant young Wits University student whose life was violently taken, are not isolated tragedies. They are echoes of a deeper crisis threatening our communities. These names must not become statistics. They must be the reason we rise.
This week is a call to action, not observation. It is a week of walking, speaking, listening, and learning together. The protection and safety of our children cannot wait. Not one more child should suffer in silence.
Afrika Tikkun Events Throughout the Week:
- Community Parades
Join us as we walk the streets of Alexandra and Orange Farm on 05 June 2025, raising awareness and standing in solidarity for every child’s safety.
- Open Talks & Panel Discussions
Be part of real, life-saving conversations with various stakeholders like Childline, the SAPS, SADAG, JMPD and SANCA to name a few. Held at our five Centres of Excellence, these events bring together activists, community leaders, educators, parents and youth to speak truth to power.
- Workshops & Learning Spaces
Knowledge is power and protection. There will be interactive sessions where Afrika Tikkun’s Senior Social Workers and Social Support Services Facilitators will empower and engage children, teens and adults to understand their rights and learn how to stay safe.
- Safe Sharing Circles
At our Randburg centre, on 04 June, there will be live story-telling and poetry sessions, where young people will be sharing their lived experiences. These spaces are for healing and solidarity. Join us in sharing stories, poetry and lived experiences, because every voice matters.
Afrika Tikkun’s award winning and unique Cradle-to-Career 360-degree model provides a holistic approach to the development of young people. The organisation is currently assisting over 40,000 children and youth through five centres of excellence and four support and training centres across South Africa.
Ultimately, when we talk, we protect. When we listen, we empower. When we act, we change lives. The safety of our children and youth is non-negotiable. We cannot afford to be bystanders. Now is the time to raise your voice. Now is the time to walk beside us. Now is the time to act.
Let’s honour the lives of others like Cwecwe, Olerato and countless others by creating a future where every child and young person can grow up in safety, dignity and love. Let’s make noise for children’s rights. Let’s make it safe to grow up in South Africa. Because Every Conversation Matters.
Join us. Be the difference.
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