The Mall of the South Brings Key Partners Together to #Holler Against Human Trafficking
Submitted by: Holly Nemathithi8 September 2024 – Mall of the South united key partners, stakeholders, and government officials for the #Holler Event 2024, standing together against human trafficking. The event supported Home of Hope for Girls, a non-profit organisation providing a safe haven for children and teenagers affected by abuse, particularly victims of child sex trafficking and gender-based violence (GBV). Hosted by the dynamic Tandi Potgieter, the event served as a powerful call to action against human trafficking, a crisis affecting thousands of South Africans each year.
Raising Awareness Against Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is one of the most grievous human rights violations globally, and South Africa is no exception. Victims are often forced into labour, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse. The #Holler event created a platform to engage the community, raise awareness, and drive meaningful action against this serious issue.
The event featured compelling contributions from law enforcement and civil society. Sgt. Mnguni and Const. Nala from Mondeor SAPS discussed their experiences in combatting human trafficking from a policing perspective, while Thembelihle Bhengu from Open Disclosure provided a gripping account of the psychological toll on trafficking victims. Sibongiseni Sibanda and Gift Ntshangase from Home of Hope for Girls emphasised the importance of supporting survivors and preventing further trafficking. Amanda Coetzee from Kuselo Child & Youth Care Services spoke about the critical role of community involvement in protecting vulnerable children. Human rights advocate and Miss Earth representative, Catherine Constantinides, inspired attendees with her commitment to social justice and the fight against trafficking.
Empowering the Community
A practical highlight of the day was a self-defence lesson led by Sgt. Mnguni, who taught participants two essential techniques to protect themselves in dangerous situations.
Mall of the South also made a generous donation of R10,000 to Open Disclosure, a non-profit organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
The mall collaborated with the Balwin Foundation and SOJO Helping Hand Foundation to host a successful donation drive that benefited two esteemed organisations: Home of Hope for Girls and Kuselo Child & Youth Care Services. This joint effort exemplifies the power of community partnerships in driving positive change.
Acknowledging Our Esteemed Sponsors
The event’s success would not have been possible without the support of our esteemed sponsors. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to:
- Carol Boys
- Gold Reef City
- Chic Jewels Boutique
- Cassims & Co
- Kase Artist
- Game Over
- Unique Brows
- Apartheid Museum
- Lush Leather
- Piatto
- Mr. Price Home
- Mondeor SAPS
- Del Forno Mall of the South
- Pizza Hut Mall of the South
- Debonairs Pizza
- Elli Jewellery
- In Full Bloom
- Balwin Foundation
- Bidvest Prestige
- Oasis
- Ocean Basket
Their generous contributions were vital in making the event a resounding success, and we appreciate their commitment to the cause.
Continuing the #Holler Movement
Since its inception in 2021, #Holler has been a movement dedicated to raising awareness around GBV and empowering communities to stand against violence and abuse. In support of this mission, Mall of the South has launched an official website: www.hollersafespace.com, which serves as a resource for education, awareness, and support for those affected by GBV and human trafficking.
The #Holler event brought together a diverse group of individuals united in their mission to eradicate human trafficking. We are thrilled to report that the event was a tremendous success, and #Holler continues to be a powerful platform for driving change and promoting a safer, more compassionate society for all.
Need Support or Know Someone Affected?
If you or someone you know has been affected by human trafficking, or if you need support, please visit: www.hollersafespace.com.
Facebook: Mall of the South
Instagram: @Mallofthesouth
For donations, contact Home of Hope for Girls at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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