CHAMPIONING CHANGE: TSHEPO MUDAVHENI’S COMMITMENT TO ENDING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE  

Precious Mupenzi

• Tshepo Mudavheni, a Gender Specialist within South Africa’s Department of Social Development, is a passionate advocate for men’s involvement in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). As the country observes the 16 Days of Activism, he is emphasising the importance of men’s responsibility in creating a society where women and children can live free from harm.
  
• Mudavheni’s commitment to ending GBV stems from his belief that the change must start at home, in the workplace, and in society. He challenges harmful social norms and advocates for gender parity, the use of gender-sensitive language, and mental health openness among men, particularly in professional settings.
  
• Through programmes like Boys Championing Change Dialogues and Men’s Dialogues, Mudavheni is providing platforms for men and boys to engage in reflection and learning, with the aim of fostering respect, equality, and healthier attitudes towards masculinity, while also encouraging societal accountability in ending GBV.

As South Africa observes the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children under the theme “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children,” men across the country are being called upon to join the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Among those answering this call is Mr Tshepo Mudavheni, a Gender Specialist within the Department of Social Development.

A father of two from Elim, Limpopo, Mudavheni believes that men have a critical role to play in creating a society where women and children can live free from fear and harm. For him, this responsibility starts at home and extends to the workplace and the broader community.

“As men, we are charged with the responsibility to champion change. It begins with how we treat women in our lives—whether at home, work, or in society at large,” says Mudavheni. “I strive to use gender-sensitive language, respect women’s views, and advocate for gender parity and women’s empowerment in all spaces I occupy. It is also vital to be a role model to other men, especially young boys, and to create safe spaces where women can thrive. This is how we build a foundation for lasting change.”

Mudavheni is acutely aware of the harmful social norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls. “In many cultures, there is still an expectation that women must be submissive to male family members in all aspects of their lives, that men have the right to discipline women, and that sexual harassment is normal,” he explains. “We need to challenge these norms by speaking up against toxic behaviour, being transparent about our health and emotions, and rejecting the idea that masculinity equates to dominance or control.”

Mudavheni places strong emphasis on the need for men to be open about their mental, physical, and emotional well-being, particularly in the workplace. He believes that breaking the silence around men’s health challenges is a crucial step towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and fostering healthier behaviours.

“I strongly believe it is crucial for men to be candid about their mental, physical, and emotional health, especially in the workplace,” he explains. “When men are open about their struggles, it not only normalises these conversations but also helps to create a supportive environment where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness.” For Mudavheni, this transparency is a vital component of promoting gender equality and challenging rigid notions of masculinity.

In his role as a Gender Specialist, Mudavheni has initiated several impactful programmes to drive change. “I have led initiatives like Boys Championing Change Dialogues, Father and Son Dialogues, Men’s Dialogues, and support groups for single mothers raising boys,” he says. “These programmes create spaces for men and boys to learn, reflect, and grow, fostering attitudes that promote respect and equality.”

To men across South Africa, Mudavheni’s message is clear: “Nobody is above another; we are all equal. As men, we have a responsibility to protect, care for, and love our counterparts. Ending GBV is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal issue, and we all have a role to play.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on all men to sign a pledge against GBV, a call Mudavheni has embraced wholeheartedly. “For me, the pledge is a constant reminder of the values I must uphold,” he shares. “It’s a conscious alarm that keeps me grounded in the commitment to respect, protect, and empower women and children. It ensures that I remain accountable in my actions, thoughts, and interactions,” he concluded.

Sign the pledge: https://www.firesideconvos.co.za/1512-2/