On September 22nd and 23rd, 2023, Beyond Zero, in collaboration with Bumb’INGOMSO, hosted a transformative Men’s Bootcamp workshop at Empekweni Resort. This event was designed to engage men on the important issues of gender equality and gender-based violence (GBV), with a focus on psychosocial factors contributing to GBV and the development of actionable plans for community implementation. 

The Men’s Bootcamp brought together 72 participants from the Amathole District Municipality and Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality districts, aged 25 to 50 years. The group was diverse, including current beneficiaries and new recruits from various backgrounds such as ex-offenders, employed and unemployed individuals, urban and rural residents, diverse sexualities (including MSM), and community leaders. 

The primary objectives of the bootcamp were to achieve comprehensive engagement with men on gender equality and gender-based violence (GBV), to examine the psychosocial factors contributing to GBV, and to develop tangible plans for community implementation to promote positive social behaviour change. 

The bootcamp featured a series of interactive discussions led by experts in GBV prevention and gender equality. Key topics included definitions and root causes of GBV, the impact of GBV on individuals and communities, and strategies for active participation in GBV prevention. We also had social activities such as board games. Day two started with a team-building activity involving a morning walk/hike, discussion on HIV prevalence and gender disparity, and GBV and IPV in society. The participants engaged in group presentations and the event concluded with a vote of thanks and a post-evaluation session led by Nozuko. 

Participants were encouraged to share personal experiences, challenges, and success stories, fostering a common understanding of the bootcamp’s objectives and intended outcomes. 

A pre and post bootcamp assessment was conducted, with 65 participants completing the evaluations. These assessments measured participants’ prior knowledge and the changes in their attitudes and perceptions regarding GBV and gender equality. The evaluations highlighted a significant increase in understanding and a commitment to becoming champions of change within their communities. 

The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration, learning, and commitment to addressing gender equality and GBV. Participants developed action plans to implement their newfound knowledge in their communities. The success of these plans depends on the dedication and determination of the participants to drive positive change. 

The Men’s Bootcamp was an important event for Beyond Zero, highlighting the importance of engaging men in the fight against GBV and promoting gender equality. By fostering a commitment to change, the bootcamp empowered participants to take tangible actions in their communities, contributing to a healthier and more equitable society.