In observance of Women's Month, the University of the Free State (UFS) Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination (GEAD) Office in conjunction with Organisational Development and Employee Well-Being, hosted the Victim to Victor Dignity Kit Handover event on 3 August 2023. The event aimed to provide support and empowerment to victims and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) through the distribution of dignity kits.

Dignity kits are specially curated packages deFsigned to cater for the needs of gender-based violence victims and to help them maintain their dignity during crisis situations. The preservation of dignity is crucial in upholding self-esteem and confidence, which play a vital role in coping with the aftermath of such traumatic experiences.

Dr Lentsu Nchabeleng, Deputy Director in the GEAD Office, explained the importance of dignity kits from a human rights perspective, stating, "The packs are meant to uphold the dignity of survivors and victims throughout the process of seeking help, justice, psycho-social assistance, and any other needed intervention."

From victim to victor

The highlight of the event was the inspirational talk delivered by Grizelda Grootboom, who shared her harrowing journey from being a survivor of human trafficking to becoming an advocate against sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. Grootboom's ordeal began at a tender age when she experienced homelessness and was brutally assaulted. She then endured a life of prostitution after being trafficked into sex slavery by her best friend.

Expressing her gratitude for the platform provided by the event, Grootboom said, "Having this kit available to victims of gender-based violence in South Africa is such an important tool." She applauded the university's initiative and its commitment to implementing strategies that demonstrate genuine care and support for survivors.

Grootboom emphasised the need to implement the plans and measures discussed at summits and conferences on gender-based violence. She thanked the university for supporting her and constantly engaging with her story, and she urged other institutions to replicate and test the effectiveness of the dignity kits.

Transformation and advocacy 

On her transformative journey from victim to victor, Grootboom founded the Survivor Exit Foundation, authored a book titled Exit! A True Story and became a member of the African Survivor Coalition. She is now a global activist against sexual exploitation and sex trafficking.

The university's Victim to Victor Dignity Kit Handover event showcased its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and exemplified the core value of care advocated by the Vision 130 strategy, in anticipation of the institution's 130th anniversary in 2034. By providing survivors with carefully curated dignity kits, the institution demonstrated genuine concern and compassion by preserving their dignity during crisis situations. This commitment to care extends beyond immediate assistance, aiming to empower survivors and contributing to a safer, more equitable society.