Phinius Sebatsane has made it his mission to promote the fight against gender-based violence after living through his mother’s abuse at the hands of his own father. Picture: Wendy Dondolo / IOL
Phinius Tebogo Sebatsane, a native of Vaalwater in Limpopo, has been a Cape Town resident for over a decade. His journey from journalist to missionary to activist is a testament to his unwavering dedication to creating a safer world for women.
Growing up in a household where his mother suffered abuse at the hands of his stepfather, Phinius learned early on the devastating effects of gender-based violence. This personal experience ignited a fire within him to protect and advocate for women.
“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it’s also a men’s issue,” Phinius says.
“Men need to be at the forefront of advocating for women’s rights and safety.”
Phinius’s organisation, Reathusana, stems from his personal experience and desire to create a safe haven for women. The name Reathusana, meaning “we are rising”, symbolises the empowerment and healing that women deserve.
Through Reathusana, Phinius aims to provide safe spaces for women to:
Phinius’s activism extends beyond Reathusana. He tirelessly advocates for the rights of the homeless and victims of human trafficking, recognising the interconnectedness of these social issues.
His story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join the fight against gender-based violence. Phinius Sebatsane’s unwavering commitment to creating a safer world for women is a testament to the power of personal experience and the impact one person can have.
IOL has embarked on a campaign called Elevate Her to highlight the plight of homeless women of South Africa. To get involved, email info@iol.co.za
IOL
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