As a society, our values are only as strong as the actions that support them. An inclusive society is an empowered society, where all members feel valued, seen and protected. It is only in this environment that we can truly expect to thrive and achieve our goals.
Mebala believes in the importance of social justice and advocacy for all people regardless of gender, age, education, religion, sexual orientation or political affiliation. We aim to promote social inclusion and encourage people to exercise their rights to promote equality, justice and fairness.
Sechaba: Are You Listening? is a collaborative project between Mebala Youth Studios and the French Embassy in Botswana. This initiative aims to address gender-based issues faced by women and foster awareness and engagement from all, including men and boys, to encourage dynamic and impactful conversations.
In ten episodes of approximately 45 minutes each, and using and intersectional lens, we will engage with some of the most inspiring and relevant spokespersons on topics such as the position of women in Botswana, women in media, sexual harassment in the workplace, women in politics, and issues of mental and physical health affecting all genders.
Coalition against Gender Based Violence (GBV)
In 2022, with Botswana named as the rape capital of the world, and facing gruesome cases within our own community, we put together the Anti-GBV Coalition: a network of organizations and individuals concerned about violence against women in Botswana. Together, we have committed to dealing directly with relational violence and abuse of power at all levels of society. Members of the network include representatives of NGOs and local media, Kgosi Somolekae, the South African High Commissioner, and the Director of UNICEF.
Youth are affected by gender based violence like everyone else, and we believe that while the issue is widespread, the solutions must be uniquely tailored to the the diverse needs of our communities. Youth, like women, is not a homogenous group- we are all different and we want to celebrate this fact in designing our interventions.
In 2023, to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, we produced a social media campaign designed to raise awareness about the issues surrounding Gender Based Violence in Botswana. Under the theme: “UNITE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls”, we created sixteen profiles representing individuals and organizations. The profiles featured a photograph, and a statement about what they believe we need to invest in to prevent Gender Based Violence in our society.
Safe Space Sessions
Our first Safe Space Session was held in February 2023, in collaboration with Botswana Trans Initiative. Themed Self Love Club, the session aimed to celebrate self love, highlighting how it builds foundations for healthy romantic relationships.
These sessions allow us to dig into the deeper issues the lives of young people in Botswana, and what we can do to change it.
We intend to create a relaxed space for young people to get to know each other, and have open conversations about their experiences, and to create an empathetic community of safety where bodily autonomy and mutual respect are the founding principles of the space.
We welcome collaborations. If you are interested contact dumelang@mebalayouthstudios.org with the subject line Human Rights Development.