Zakhe Khuzwayo, a prominent young leader, recently earned second prize in the Civil Society division at the DearSA Young Leaders Awards, held on June 15th at Montecasino in Johannesburg. This recognition celebrates his significant contributions through The Men Carve, an organisation dedicated to fostering respectful manhood and combating gender-based violence (GBV) among South African youth.
Guided by the IsiZulu proverb "Ugotshwa Usamila" ("you can shape a tree while it is still young"), The Men Carve focuses on preventing violence and promoting healthy mindsets, with approximately 40% of its participants being women. The organisation aligns its mission with UN Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to promote gender equality, eradicate poverty, foster peace, and ensure healthy lives.
Speaking about The Men Carve's mission, Khuzwayo says, "We believe that shaping positive behaviours and attitudes in young people can prevent future violence and create a culture of respect and empathy. It's about planting the seeds of change early on."
The Men Carve implements diverse programs aimed at addressing social issues prevalent among youth:
- Workshop/Seminar Program: These workshops facilitate open dialogues on gender stereotypes, socialization, and mental health in universities and communities, encouraging collective problem-solving. Topics like "The Men Box" and "The Possibility Box" promote active participation and healthy conversations.
- School Visit Program: This initiative promotes respect, empathy, and inclusivity among high school students while offering practical support in university applications to foster personal growth. It aims to cultivate a generation that values inclusivity and empowers young people to make informed life choices.
- University Student Residences Visit: Engaging university students in discussions on mental health and intimate partner violence, this program promotes safe living environments and responsible relationships, providing vital information and support.
- Food Parcels Program: In collaboration with SA Harvest and Boxer Superstores, this program addresses food insecurity among underprivileged university students and community members, supporting long-term food security and well-being.
Securing resources for The Men Carve involves proactive outreach to sponsors via email, direct pitching, and leveraging social media to highlight program impacts and attract supporters. Despite ongoing challenges in resource acquisition, the organisation remains committed to expanding its impact. By sharing stories and testimonials from young people and community members, Khuzwayo illustrates the positive effects of their initiatives, making a compelling case for support.
Reflecting on a significant achievement, Khuzwayo shared, "One of our proudest moments was distributing food parcels to 110 students and community members. We exceeded our target, and it was incredible to see the relief and gratitude on their faces. It reinforced why we do what we do."
Winning the Programme of the Year at the DUT Envision2030 Institutional Awards 2022 further validated their efforts in combating gender-based violence, showcasing their commitment and the effectiveness of their programs. "These awards are not just a recognition of our work but a motivation to keep pushing forward. They remind us that our efforts are making a real difference," Khuzwayo says.
He credits mentors like Ms. Nomfundo Mbatha and his brother, Mr. Xolani Ngcobo, for shaping his leadership and organisational growth. "Ms. Mbatha, my late DUT lecturer, was instrumental in developing my leadership skills. Her guidance and belief in me were invaluable," he says. He also acknowledges his brother's support, saying, "Xolani’s experience and advice have been a cornerstone in my journey."
Other key figures, including Mr. Bhekezakhe Cele, Mr. Bradford Will, and Mr. Crispin Hemson, have provided mentorship, offering new perspectives and invaluable advice. Additionally, leaders like Mr. Ayanda Msweli, BI Phakathi, and Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman from The Gift of The Givers continue to inspire Khuzwayo with their dedication to community service.
The DearSA Young Leaders Award has provided validation and visibility for The Men Carve, enhancing partnerships and attracting stakeholders committed to their cause. This recognition has motivated Khuzwayo to continue advocating for gender equality, mental health awareness, and community support. "The award has opened new doors for us, increasing our credibility and making it easier to attract support from various stakeholders. It's amplified our platform, enabling us to reach and impact more individuals and communities effectively," Khuzwayo notes.
Encouraging aspiring leaders, Khuzwayo emphasizes, "Embrace your purpose passionately. Leadership starts with initiative and a commitment to positive change. Don't wait for permission or a special designation to lead. Take action now. The biggest lie we tell ourselves is that there will be more time, another chance, tomorrow. If you don’t have tomorrow, do it today. Just get it done."
Balancing his leadership responsibilities with academic pursuits, Khuzwayo manages his time effectively, aligning with DUT's Envision2030 initiative, which promotes creativity and community engagement. "This approach enhances both my academic experience and organisational work, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. It’s about maintaining focus on both fronts and contributing to personal growth and community impact," he explains.
Zakhe Khuzwayo’s leadership with The Men Carve exemplifies proactive efforts to empower youth and address pressing issues in South Africa. By focusing on youth unemployment, mental health, and community engagement, Khuzwayo aims to create a more inclusive and resilient society, where young people drive positive change. His dedication continues to inspire many, making a lasting impact on South Africa’s future.
