By: The Youth Voice Reporter

Residents of Mkhuhlu took to the streets over the weekend, using a fun run to raise their voices against gender-based violence (GBV), substance abuse and violence in their communities.

The Rise.Run.Resist Fun Run, organised by Lindokuhle Mhlanga of Voices of Impact, brought together residents ranging from 12-year-olds to people aged over 65.

Young people made up the majority of participants, a turnout Mhlanga described as a positive sign that the youth are willing to speak out against social problems affecting their communities.

The initiative also attracted support from the Department of Health, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Traffic Department.

Mhlanga said the event was not simply about running, but about encouraging residents to stand together and reject issues that continue to affect families and communities.

“We say no to GBV, no to substance abuse and no to violence,” said Mhlanga.

The event created an opportunity for residents, government departments and community organisations to come together around a common cause and encourage young people to take an active role in shaping safer communities.

Mhlanga thanked participants, volunteers and partners who supported the initiative, saying their involvement showed that residents were prepared to take a stand against the challenges facing their community.

Following the turnout, Voices of Impact plans to bring the Rise.Run.Resist Fun Run back next year, with organisers promising a bigger and stronger event.

The initiative aims to build a culture of community participation while giving residents, particularly young people, a platform to speak out and take action against GBV, substance abuse and other social ills.