From 20–22 March 2026, the South African Council of Churches hosted its Young People’s Faith & Development Seminar on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in Boksburg. The gathering brought together young leaders from across the country under the powerful theme: “Young People as agents towards a healed, transformed and violence-free society.”
The seminar created a sacred and courageous space for young people to reflect, connect, and grow. Through honest conversations and deep storytelling, participants engaged the harsh realities of GBVF in South Africa, recognising it not only as a social crisis but as a justice issue that intersects with inequality, poverty, and environmental vulnerability. For many, this was a moment to name pain, but also to reclaim hope and agency.
GBVF affects vulnerable communities, often worsened by environmental stressors such as displacement, resource scarcity, and economic instability. It is therefore important for us to always remind our eco-champions that climate justice, gender justice, and social justice are interconnected, and that we should work together for a better future for all.
A key highlight of the seminar was an address by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, who encouraged young people to continue playing an active role in shaping a society rooted in dignity, safety, and justice. Her presence affirmed the importance of youth voices in national conversations and decision-making spaces.
The three-day gathering concluded with a moving Service of Remembrance marking the Sharpeville Massacre. This moment of reflection honoured those who lost their lives on 21 March 1960 and reminded participants of the ongoing struggle for Human Rights and justice in South Africa today. It also grounded the seminar within the broader history of resistance, resilience, and the call to build a more just and peaceful society.
In attendance were delegates from the Anglican Church of Southern Africa and the Anglican Youth of Southern Africa (AYSA), including Ofentse Kwapeng, Tumiŝo Mohlahlane, Lencoe Selebano, Mandisa Darkie Gumada, Rev’d Canon Seipati Ngcobo, Teboho Bino Makhalanyane from Green Anglicans, and Lulama Ntuta, who serves as the SACC 1st Vice President.
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