In a time of toxic social abuse and traffiking, teens and young adults are benefitting from training in self awareness, physical and emotional defense strategies. The designer and implementer of the innovative Be Strong, Be Wise youth education program in USA is bringing this curriculum to South Africa in 2025. In collaboration with the host organization Bridging the Gap SA, we will translate and adjust the curriculum for relevance to Zulu youth in the Pietermaritzburg, KZN area.
Poverty and lack of education contribute to a high rate of rape, unwanted pregnancy, gender based violence in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. High levels of sexual abuse and rampant vulnerability of girls and young women have alarmed KwaZulu provincial leaders and Social Work departments, as well as Police and Education officials. BeStrong Be Wise addresses vulnerability with strategic training and resources to impact this tragic situation.
Be Strong Be Wise USA will collaborate with Bridging the Gap South Africa, an experienced NGO delivering interventions and family support in KwaZulu Natal. BTGSA will translate the program into Zulu, provide facilitators, logistics , reporting and administration. Be Strong Be Wise founder and trainer will train and oversee the delivery of this intervention in the Pietermaritzburg area. The curriculum is participatory, with play acting, verbal scripting, & educating on digital harrassment .
300 families will be exposed to the intervention strategies, with approximately 400 young women trained in awareness, strategies and scripts which they are strongly encouraged to internalize and with which they are empowered to protect themselves from sexual predators and unwanted sex during their lifetimes.
