Congratulations to Brown Lekekela, a community mobiliser who works with Sonke Gender Justice on our CHANGE Trial research project on intimate partner violence, for the support and funding he has just received from the Dis-Chem Foundation for his work in supporting survivors of gender-based violence and sexual abuse!
Lekekela runs Green Door, a help service for survivors of sexual violence, which he founded in 2011. Operating from Diepsloot police station, the centre was launched in 2013 by the former premier of Gauteng, Nomvula Mokonyane and MEC of Safety, Ms Faith Mazibuko, during the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
In January this year (2016), Lekekela was chosen as Lead SA hero of the month, for his caring efforts that aim to provide hope and support to survivors of rape and domestic violence.
Through the Green Door centre, he offers the following services:
- A safe secure environment for survivors;
- Counselling and emotional support;
- Referrals for further professional help; and
- Basic care items, such as a blanket, refreshments and clothing.
Commenting on Dis-Chem Foundation’s support of Lekekela’s work, the Foundation’s Penny Steyn said they are moved by Brown’s inspirational work, and in particular how caring he is about women’s welfare.
She says the centre, like other sexual abuse centres nationwide, sadly has a great need for comfort kits. These kits are put together for victims of rape and sexual abuse, and contain about 12 essential items women need in these critical moments.
“We are going to supply him for the next year, 60 kits a month, which will help 60 women a month. And the value of that is R120 000 over the year”, said Steyn.
More details in the accompanying report here.
