The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a global campaign that aims to raise awareness, generate discussion, and ultimately foster the elimination of all forms of violence based on gender. As part of this powerful movement, HESDInitiatives took part in several impactful activities to engage local communities and advocate for the protection of rights and dignity for all individuals, regardless of gender. Among the activities carried out, we focused on sports, fitness, and education to spread critical messages about GBV prevention.
Promoting Awareness Through Sports
One of the major events we organized was a football match between the HESDInitiatives Football Club and Faham International Academy Football Club. This exciting event was officiated by the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Niger State, marking an official collaboration that highlighted the importance of community engagement in addressing social issues like GBV.
While the match was an exciting display of sportsmanship, it served as a platform to sensitize the players—both male and female—about the harmful effects of gender-based violence. With the support of the Ministry of Youths and Sports, we used this opportunity to engage the young athletes in crucial conversations about how they can be part of the solution in combating GBV. The event also highlighted how sports can be a powerful medium for promoting gender equality and breaking down stereotypes that fuel violence.
Walk for Fitness: Raising Awareness on GBV
In addition to the football match, we organized a Walk for Fitness aimed at creating a healthy and safe environment for physical and mental well-being. This walk was part of our community mobilization effort, where participants had the chance to learn about gender-based violence prevention in a relaxed, interactive environment.
The walk helped participants understand that combating GBV is not only about legal and societal actions but also about changing mindsets. The event emphasized that promoting equality and preventing violence is a shared responsibility, and physical fitness can be an avenue to bring people together to discuss critical social issues.
Participants walked together in solidarity, chanting messages that promote healthy, respectful relationships and the importance of supporting survivors of gender-based violence. It was a beautiful sight to see the community come together for a cause that impacts everyone.
Sensitization at UBEC Model Smart School
As part of our outreach efforts, we also held an educational sensitization session at UBEC Model Smart School. This event aimed at raising awareness among young students, particularly in schools, about their rights and responsibilities in preventing gender-based violence.
At the school, we discussed what constitutes GBV, the long-term consequences it has on individuals and society, and the role that youth can play in creating a culture of respect and equality. We also provided resources for reporting and seeking help for those affected by violence.
Our team led interactive discussions with the students, using real-life examples and role-playing to engage them in meaningful conversations. The school visit served as an opportunity for us to plant the seeds of social change in the younger generation—educating them on how they can stand up against violence and advocate for their peers.
The Importance of Collective Action
The 16 Days of Activism Against GBV provided us with the opportunity to highlight the importance of community involvement in the fight against gender-based violence. At HESDInitiatives, we strongly believe that change starts from within the community, and by engaging people through different mediums—sports, education, and fitness—we can build a society where violence is no longer tolerated.
Our activities aimed to:
- Raise awareness on the various forms of GBV
- Empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to prevent and report violence
- Encourage young people to become active agents of change in their communities
- Advocate for policies that ensure the safety and well-being of all, regardless of gender
Looking Ahead: A Continued Commitment to Ending GBV
Though the 16 Days of Activism may have concluded, our work doesn’t stop here. At HESDInitiatives, we remain committed to ending gender-based violence, and we plan to continue advocating for gender equality through various initiatives in the future. We hope that the football match, the walk for fitness, and the school sensitization will serve as stepping stones towards a brighter, safer, and more inclusive society.
We are deeply grateful to the Ministry of Youths and Sports, Niger State, Faham International Academy, UBEC Model Smart School, and all of our partners for their support in making this campaign a success.
