An innovative gender programme was launched in Gqeberha recently to explore positive gender identity under the hashtag #GoodGuy programme. A group of school learners from Hillside High School, David Livingston High School and Patterson High came together to explore what is means to be a good guy.

The aim is for school learners to develop positive masculinity, together as boys and girls. They explored the drivers of GBV in the country, and then looked at the context of their areas, before then honing in on gender dynamics at each of their schools.

During the three day workshop at Sumcay Camp Site in Swartkops, the learners went through a process of exploring identity, communications and role models. They spent time reflecting on femininity and masculinity and how expectations impact on their thoughts, feelings and behaviour.

Each of the learners on the training became Asante Ambassadors to go back into the schools to run peer-training on positive gender identity in small group settings. Asante has established relationships with the principals and teachers who will support a learner-led #GoodGuy campaign on GBV prevention.

The format of the #GoodGuy campaign is entirely up to the learners in each school and could take the form of art, drama, debate or sport. Parent involvement will be encouraged to create impact both within the school and the home.