Gender-based violence (GBV) has become a pandemic that seems to be chipping away at the fabric of society. Our mission is to comfort, support and provide the tools to empower these individuals to move from victims to survivors.
Johannesburg, South Africa (19 August 2022) – Women’s Day in 2021 saw the launch of the #Holler project – an incredible initiative helping victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Africa – and in 2022, Mall of the South expanded on the project with an “educate and rescue” theme, as well as supporting the “EPIC” Foundation.
The new digital safe space was launched during an event on Women’s Day, where various speakers shared their personal experiences with GBV and how they have not just overcome their abuse but have used it to become pillars of strength in our society and “Shouting Out” against this violence.
Alta McMaster, one of the speakers and founder of Epic Foundation, has endured several difficult life events, including being a rape survivor. Through her experience, she now has a profound grasp of society’s need to support survivors.
“We live in a society where an increasingly high number of South Africans are exposed to trauma, crime, unemployment, and other socio-economic challenges. Gender-based violence has become a pandemic that seems to be chipping away at the fabric of society. Our mission is to comfort, support and provide the tools to empower these individuals to move from victims to survivors.
“We can only do this with the support of our community. We thank Mall of the South for their valuable contribution, not just finances and donations, but collaborating with us to produce a tool available for those who need help and support,” said McMaster.
Other speakers included Andile Gaelesiwe, Sarah Wissler, Sharon Gordon, Unaiza Suliman, Romana Adam, Martin Pelders, and Cindy Furman.
#HollerSafeSpace
The #HollerSafeSpace platform offers a secure portal for getting advice on what to do, where to go, and how to obtain treatment if you’re a victim of abuse.
The platform is a comprehensive online resource that provides valuable information for victims to educate themselves on what to do in their abusive situation, as well as for friends and family of victims to access services that can help them to assist their loved ones in leaving the abusive environment safely.
You can visit the safe space by clicking here.
Mall of the South Manager Hester Smith expressed a heartfelt thank you to each person who bought a ticket to the event.
“This enabled the mall to donate R10,000 to the Epic Foundation – further donations of approximately R50,000 were made in the form of cleaning material, clothes, toys and other goods.
“A shout out to all our tenants, contractors, suppliers and community who have graciously assisted with supplies, donations, sponsorships and prizes. Without any of this, the event would not have been the success it was.
“A total of R135,836 was received in event sponsorship, and the total prize giveaway was R36,109.”
Last but not least, a huge thank you to each speaker who was brave enough to stand up and share the most intimate part of their lives and for taking us through their journey of survival.
Without their input, this day would not have been possible; I salute you! Keep standing up for what is right and keep inspiring others to do the same.”
By educating and rescuing impacted individuals, the Centre aims to improve the plight of GBV victims by enabling those affected to leave safely and create long-lasting impact and tangible change.
Sharing the website on social media platforms and with others in vulnerable circumstances is encouraged. A life may be saved by one share. Businesses can include a link to the site on their websites by adding the custom code. Mall of the South can be reached at mallofthesouth@redefine.co.za to obtain the code.
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