It’s International Individual Rights Day.
In honour of John Locke, the seventeenth-century English philosopher whose important and ground-breaking writings argued for the rights of each single human being, Individual Rights Day is celebrated on August 29th, the anniversary of the date of Locke’s birth.
Today serves as a reminder that the fight for dignity, equality, and justice is far from over.
Reducing Gender Based Violence in South Africa
In South Africa, too many girls and women face violence and gender inequality, profoundly impacting the quality of life for girls and women, pushing them to society’s margins and denying them the chance to reach their full potential – a rife and harsh violation of their rights.
13.1% of females aged 15-49 reported being subject to physical or sexual violence by a current or former partner.
The Atlas Foundation is working with the Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute to change this…
At GWRI, a safe environment is provided for women who have been subject to gender-based violence in townships, to live in a hostel and provide them with 3 meals a day and hygiene products.
A career pathway is created for the women through partnerships with several educational providers.
Life values and a healthy lifestyle are promoted through the rugby programme, which includes player development and options of following a career in rugby through coaching, refereeing, and administration programmes.
Gina's Story
Meet Gina Moyo, a young woman from a community marked by poverty and inequality, where opportunities for girls are scarce. Arriving at the Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute in 2020, Gina struggled with hardship and isolation.
With support from GWRI and Atlas, she has gained confidence through education, life skills, and rugby – empowering her to shape her own future.
Her determination has now earned her a full scholarship at the University of Pretoria. Gina’s journey shows the power of protecting individual rights: when given the chance, every girl can thrive.
Protecting Individual Rights
At The Atlas Foundation, we believe that empowering women through education, training, and sport is the key to breaking the cycle of violence. By fostering self-esteem, independence, and resilience, we help these women become leaders and role models, not just for themselves but for future generations.
Together, we can protect the rights of women and girls across the world.
