VOICES OF FAMILIES SHAPE INTERGENERATIONAL DIALOGUE IN BOKSBURG

By Thandeka Stampu

•⁠ ⁠Families are reporting improved communication, trust, and emotional understanding through the Intergenerational Dialogue.
•⁠ ⁠Parents and children are highlighting the need for ongoing psychosocial support to address trauma, identity, and social pressures.
•⁠ ⁠Facilitators are emphasising healing, self-awareness, and open dialogue as critical to strengthening family relationships.

Parents and children are sharing honest and deeply personal experiences during the Intergenerational Dialogue currently underway in Boksburg from 25 to 26 March 2026, as the Department of Social Development, in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Social Development, continues to create safe spaces for families to engage, reflect, and rebuild relationships.
The programme forms part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen families and support them in navigating social pressures and intergenerational challenges.
During the second session, participants are provided with a safe and supportive platform to reflect on their lives before and after participating in the programme.

Parents reflect on change at home.

Speaking during the dialogue, Mr William Lesedi Mathabe, who stepped up as a guardian for his siblings following the passing of their mother, says the programme is improving communication within his household.
“Before the programme, my relationship with my brother was not good. We did not communicate openly. Now he respects boundaries, expresses himself better, and we understand each other,” he says.
Another parent shares that while progress at home remains challenging due to their child being in boarding school, the programme is helping to rebuild trust and strengthen their connection.
“Even though it is not always easy, the programme is helping us rebuild trust and find ways to reconnect,” the parent says.
Parents are also calling for sustained support, emphasising the need for regular engagement sessions.
“We still need support as parents. Issues such as trauma, stress, low self-esteem and exposure to substance abuse are real. We need continued guidance from social workers and the community,” one parent explains.

Emotional breakthroughs for parents

Ms Kim Seedat shares her personal journey with her daughter, highlighting the impact of the programme on their relationship.
“We used to argue frequently because my daughter felt misunderstood, particularly regarding her identity. This programme is helping us to listen to each other without judgement, and our relationship is improving,” she says.
Ms Pakiso Mofokeng also reflects on her experience, noting significant progress in her relationship with her daughter.
“Parenting was very difficult for me. My daughter was influenced by peer pressure and often did not listen. Now, she is more patient and open. Our communication has improved from zero to one hundred,” she says.
She adds that her daughter now feels safe to express her identity, which is strengthening their bond.

Children speak out

Children are actively participating in the session and sharing their perspectives on family dynamics. While many acknowledge improvements in communication at home, they indicate that challenges still exist.
Key concerns being raised include:
•⁠ ⁠Parents being perceived as judgmental
•⁠ ⁠Lack of trust where communication is limited
•⁠ ⁠The need for greater understanding and safe spaces for LGBTQI+ children
•⁠ ⁠The desire for young people to be heard without being misunderstood
One participant reflects:
“You may not notice it because you are in your comfort zone of protecting your child.”

Building understanding and healing

Parents indicate that the programme is enabling them to better understand their children and adapt their parenting approaches.
Given the emotional depth of the discussions, facilitators are recommending ongoing psychosocial support and strengthened clinical services to assist families beyond the dialogue.

Father and son session

Clinical psychologist Dr Zingqi Ntshobane highlights the impact of unresolved childhood trauma on parenting practices.
“Many parents are beginning to recognise how their past experiences influence the way they raise their children,” she says.
She further notes increased confidence and openness among children compared to previous sessions, and reminds parents:
“You cannot pour from an empty cup.”

Mother and daughter session

Dr Marcia Zikhali highlights the influence of social media and generational differences on family relationships.
“You are not a bad mother. You are doing your best, even when it feels like you are not,” she says.
She encourages mothers and daughters to prioritise open communication and actively rebuild trust.

Closing reflections

The session concludes with participants engaging in storytelling and reflection, during which they share their individual experiences and reaffirm their dedication to improving as both parents and children.
Several participants note that their previous experiences and personal challenges have become motivating factors in their efforts to disrupt negative familial patterns and foster stronger, healthier family relationships.