by Nhlawulo Vision Chauke
Globally, one in three women will experience violence in her lifetime. Many men and children suffer too, their stories hidden behind closed doors. Lorraine Khoza, a dedicated Gender Specialist and TUT graduate who experienced GBV just days after arriving in Pretoria to study at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Ga-Rankuwa Campus, has dedicated her life to fighting this battle following her experience.
Experiencing and witnessing the overwhelming lack of support for survivors of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), led to the establishment of the Lorraine Khoza Foundation, an initiative aimed at touching, engaging and educating a million people to each becoming a voice against societal injustices.
The foundation is committed to fostering safer, more equal and empowered communities.
"We are targeting schools, from primary to secondary, as well as social media. With my leadership influence, we will ensure high-level awareness and action."
With her years of experience promoting gender equality and combating GBVF, particularly in marginalized communities, Khoza has played a critical role in national advocacy. She currently serves as:
- Deputy Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) Youth Sector
- Head of Gender & Treasurer General at the South African Youth Council
She has received multiple accolades recognising her achievements:
- Social Justice Champion of the Year 2023
- An Honorary Award from President Cyril Ramaphosa
- Mail & Guardian Top 200 Young South Africans
Gender Specialist and TUT alumna, Lorraine Khoza.
Khoza describes receiving the award from President Ramaphosa as a deeply emotional moment:
"It was such an honour because it reflects where our country stands in the fight against GBVF. Looking back at my journey and the work we have done; this award reaffirms that we are on the right track."
A personal battle for justice
Despite holding two Internal Auditing qualifications from TUT’s Faculty of Economics and Finance, Khoza chose to dedicate her life to advocating for GBVF victims having experienced it first-hand.
"Since 2015, I have been in and out of court seeking justice. Instead of protection, I faced secondary victimisation from the justice system. How much must GBVF survivors endure before they get justice?"
She emphasises the urgent need for systemic reform: "Cases cannot take ten years to be resolved while perpetrators roam free. The justice system must do better."
A lifeline for saviours
Through her foundation, Khoza actively supports young victims, ensuring they receive justice and that their cases are never withdrawn. The foundation carefully studies communities before adopting cases, implementing tailored programmes to combat GBVF.
"We dedicate 24 months to each community, working closely with them to create sustainable solutions."
Owing to her unwavering determination, Khoza is a powerful force in the fight against GBVF, using her voice, influence and experience to drive meaningful change.