Craig Wilkinson, founder of the organization, says, “We encourage men to talk and process their feelings,” he explains.
“Through this dialogue, healing occurs, and the second phase involves teaching and training positive masculinity.”
“We ultimately hope to eradicate the scourge of gender-based violence.”
He rises, moves to the centre of the group, and calls out to the men.
“You, as a man, are a powerful force for good,” he tells them. “You choose the kind of man you wish to be, and women deserve safety.”
Father A Nation operates throughout South Africa, teaching healthy masculinity and running training programmes in numerous schools and colleges.
Mystery surrounds the recent spate of murders, sparking South Africa’s latest moment of soul‑searching about women’s safety.
Police have not ruled out possible links among the Ekurhuleni deaths, though they have not confirmed a serial‑killer investigation; suspects in some cases have appeared in court.
The spate of deaths has sparked new concerns, and women in Organic Market feel increasingly fearful.
Outside a nearby shack, Linkie listens attentively while washing clothes in a large metal bucket.
“We feel unsafe when we are outside our homes,” she says.
“We feel afraid when a car follows us while walking. We are scared. What if this man will kidnap me or harm me?”
This feeling is shared by many women in the area.
At a local hair salon, Providence Maseko, whose hair is styled in thick pink braids, is present.
She approaches the door to speak with Bra Steve.
