Bellville mom's bid to summit Kilimanjaroin aid of fight against GBV

A Cape Town mother of two and wellness coach has set off to summit Mount Kilimanjaro this week, not for personal glory but to raise awareness and funds for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).

Leonie Viljoen, from Boston, Bellville, has survived abuse twice in her life.

She started her ascent of Africa’s highest peak on Wednesday as part of a group of eight climbers.

The eight-day trek is part of a campaign in support of 1000 Women Trust, a women-led organisation focused on creating safe spaces and support structures for women affected by GBV.

“This is not about the thrill or the photo at the summit,” said Viljoen.

“I climb for the women who have endured pain deeper than any crevasse on that mountain."

Viljoen said each step she takes will be dedicated to survivors of abuse who are often silenced or ignored.

“Each step I take is for the woman silenced by fear. For the girl told her pain is private. For the survivor who wakes up every day and chooses to keep going. The altitude will test my body, but it’s their stories that weigh on my heart. And it’s their strength that will push me higher.

“Many women suffer sexual abuse and don’t know what their rights are, or what appropriate and meaningful next steps should look like.

"The trauma often drives them into despair rather than into a space where they can report it. That is where an organisation like 1000 Women Trust is enormously helpful.”

She said the trust has been a lifeline to many women through trauma training and its GBV Warriors initiative, which creates community-based structures that offer support, safety and empowerment.

Viljoen encouraged the public to support her efforts by donating through her GivenGain page, with all proceeds going to the organisation. The fundraising page can be found at www.givengain.com/project/leonie-kili

She also called on women across South Africa to take part in a virtual walk in solidarity. Participants are invited to run, walk or cycle 5895 metres, matching Kilimanjaro’s elevation at a location and time of their choosing. They can register by emailing [email protected].

Participants in the virtual event will receive a 1000 Women Trust T-shirt and a token of recognition for their involvement.

Cape Argus