MAN TO MAN | BRENTON VAN VREDE ON MALE PRIVILEGE 

Cuma Pantshwa 

• Acknowledging Male Privilege: Brenton Van Vrede, Executive Manager of Grants Administration at SASSA, underscores the importance of recognising male privilege as a first step towards addressing gender-based violence (GBV). While acknowledging it is essential, he stresses that male privilege can be harnessed positively to advocate for change and gender equality.
• Positive Masculinity and Gender Equality: Van Vrede calls on men to challenge toxic masculinity by embracing vulnerability, empathy, and equality. He encourages men to model respect and equality in their homes and communities, teaching the next generation of boys to uphold values of consent, dignity, and non-violence.
• Support for Women’s Leadership and Action Against GBV: Van Vrede advocates for men to actively support women’s leadership and collaborate with women’s organisations in the fight against GBV. He also urges men to take a stand by signing the pledge to end GBV, creating a ripple effect of awareness and responsibility among their peers.

The concept of male privilege refers to the unearned advantages and societal benefits that men may experience simply because of their gender. In the context of gender-based violence (GBV), the harmful notion of male privilege can perpetuate systemic inequality and violence in several ways.

Brenton Van Vrede, Executive Manager of Grants Administration at SASSA, highlights an essential first step: men must confront and accept the existence of male privilege. “Male privilege exists. Men should stop denying it and actively work to address it,” he asserts. However, Van Vrede offers a nuanced perspective: “It doesn’t mean you have to crucify it entirely. Male privilege, when acknowledged, can also be used positively—to influence change, create safer communities, and advocate for gender equality.”

This shift, he says, begins by supporting policies that promote equality, uplifting survivors, and fostering inclusive spaces. “It requires amplifying marginalised voices and challenging the deeply rooted discriminatory practices that sustain GBV.” Van Vrede believes one powerful way men can contribute to this change is by supporting and collaborating with women’s organisations and movements focused on ending GBV. This support can take many forms: offering financial resources or volunteering time, actively listening to and internalising the needs of these organisations, and collaborating on initiatives and campaigns to raise awareness and drive change. By aligning themselves with these efforts, men can help dismantle the systems that perpetuate GBV while building a more inclusive and equitable future.

Van Vrede challenges men to stay informed about gender issues and empower their peers by sharing this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues. Importantly, he stresses the need to speak up in male-dominated environments, challenging sexist jokes, comments, or behaviours rooted in stereotypes.

“As a man, I try my best to treat everyone with respect and equality in all interactions,” he shares. “In my home, I ensure my daughter doesn’t have an experience different from the boys. I hope to set an example by contributing to household chores and treating my wife as an equal. In recent years, I’ve also become aware of the risk of being overly sensitive to women and the need to avoid overcompensating for male privilege, as this can undermine women instead of empowering them.”

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children marks its 26th year this year, and the campaign seeks to tackle the root causes of GBV, promote positive masculinity, and enhance economic opportunities for women and children to foster resilience and independence. Van Vrede weighs in and points to the harm caused by toxic masculinity: “It promotes dominance, aggression, and the suppression of emotions—factors that can escalate into violence. Men can help break this cycle by embracing vulnerability, empathy, and equality,” he says.

The home plays a critical role in the fight to end GBV. He said family and friends should engage boys and young men and teach them to model respect, equality, and non-violence. “Fathers, mentors, and role models must not shy away from conversations about sex and, from a young age, instil principles of consent, respect, dignity, and equality.”

A passion of Van Vrede’s is supporting women in leadership roles. This, he notes, is another powerful way to challenge systemic inequality and amplify the fight against GBV. “It is crucial to demonstrate unwavering commitment and proactive support to my female team members,” he says. “This can involve understanding a female leader’s vision and aligning my efforts to contribute towards her goals, providing constructive feedback, and facilitating an environment where her decisions are respected and enacted. Additionally, offering to take on tasks that can alleviate her workload and openly recognising her achievements can further empower her leadership.” Van Vrede adds that recognising the achievements of women leaders can empower them to lead with confidence and impact.

“Society needs to normalise conversations, create safe spaces for men to discuss these issues without judgment, increase awareness, and educate about the importance of gender equality and the harmful effects of traditional gender norms,” he urged.

Rallying behind the President’s call, Van Vrede encouraged men to take a stand and sign the pledge: “By signing the pledge to end GBV, I hope to send a message of commitment to change and encourage other men to reflect on their behaviour and take action against GBV.”

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