Fish Hoek Lions call on men to “Walk in Heels” against GBV

Men across the far south are being called to step up - literally - to take a stand against gender-based violence (GBV). 

On Saturday, December 6, at 11am the Fish Hoek Lions Club will host its Walk in Heels event at Longbeach Mall to raise awareness and show solidarity with victims and survivors of GBV.

The event invites men to walk a short distance in women’s heels as a symbolic gesture of support for women and children affected by violence.

Jayshree Rajpaul, the club’s GBV project coordinator, said the event is a creative and symbolic way to raise awareness.

“The idea comes from the concept of walking a mile in someone else’s shoes. It engages the public by drawing attention and starting conversations about respect, empathy, and equality,” she said.

She added that the Lions are hoping for genuine engagement from local men - not just by joining the walk, but by taking the message to heart.

“Their visual participation symbolises empathy and allyship, showing that men are prepared to step into the shoes of women who face violence and discrimination.”

The Walk in Heels forms part of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10 under the United Nations theme UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.

Ms Rajpaul said the Lions recently launched their GBV awareness initiative, and this is the second event since its inception.

Last year’s event saw their members revitalise the garden at a local safe house, with the intention of providing ongoing logistical support.

Our aim is not only to raise awareness but also to inspire action. Through initiatives like this, we hope to encourage the community to take a stand, support survivors, and promote a culture of respect,” she said.