From violence to mentorship: How Indoda Wednesday give men a safe space to talk

In April 2024, the City of Johannesburg Health District launched Indoda Wednesday, an initiative aimed at providing a safe space for men and boys to talk about various social issues, including violence, mental health, and substance abuse. Since its inception, the program has reached over 1,000 men in Johannesburg’s Region G.

One participant, Elias Jim from Lawley, shared his personal journey of change. Raised in a violent household, Jim struggled with anger and abuse throughout his life. After serving 24 years in prison for gang-related violence, he continued his work with Indoda Wednesday to mentor other men. Jim emphasized the importance of providing men with safe spaces to discuss their challenges without fear of stigma.

Another participant, Lerato Magongwa from Orange Farm, joined the program in 2022 after experiencing job loss, relationship breakdown, kidnapping, depression, and a stroke. Magongwa found solace in the supportive community of Indoda Wednesday and now serves as a facilitator for the Father A Nation’s Champions for Change programme, which helps men discuss their challenges and connect with additional support services.

The initiative takes place in various community settings, such as community halls and churches, and covers topics like gender-based violence, substance use, mental health, traditional initiation schools, and skills development. The City of Johannesburg Health District also collaborates with healthcare facilities, including community health centres and Mpathy Rhiza clinic, to connect men with essential healthcare services such as HIV testing, TB screening, prostate cancer services, and mental health referrals.