Today, 07 June 2025, the Resource Centre in Ramokonupi West was transformed into a sanctuary of possibility—a place where men, women, youth, and elders gathered not merely to attend an event, but to stand witness to the stirring of a movement. Just over 1,000 people came together, drawn by a shared yearning for renewal, healing, and purpose.
A Community Awakens
From the earliest hours, the venue buzzed with anticipation. Families and friends arrived, forming lines at registration points, their faces bright with expectation. Laughter and conversation interwove as people reconnected with old friends and met new ones, each person carrying a sense that today was different—an opportunity for transformation and unity.
As the venue settled, voices rose in worship. “Malibongwe igama leNkosi” filled the hall—each word a declaration of gratitude and reverence. The song was more than a melody; it was a collective heartbeat that reminded everyone why they had come: to stand together in purpose.
A Prayerful Foundation
With a deep sense of reverence, Mr Gamede—a respected elder in the church and the community—stepped forward. His presence radiated wisdom and calm authority, earned through years of guiding both congregation and community. He welcomed the assembly with words that reached beyond mere greeting. “We are gathered here not just to talk, but to transform,” he prayed. His voice carried the weight of hope, forging a bridge between our shared struggles and our collective future.
Voices of Vision
The day’s purpose unfolded with a sense of solemnity and clarity. Pastor Goodwill Mkhavele, whose vision ignited this movement, stood alongside Advocate Mashabane, Director General of the Justice Department, and Mr Newton Baloi, a dynamic entrepreneur whose passion for service shone brightly. Together, they embodied the diverse leadership needed to guide this journey—each a vital thread in a tapestry of renewal.
Guiding us through the day were Mr Nkabinde and Lady Zama, the programme directors. Their voices blended seamlessly, creating a rhythm that carried us from one moment to the next with grace and warmth.
Casting the Vision
When Mr Oliphant took the microphone, he spoke with humility and conviction. “Pastor Goodwill’s passion for transforming lives is why we are all here today,” he began. His words painted a vision of men reclaiming their rightful place as the backbone of families and communities. “Every man has a purpose—to build strong families and communities that are peaceful, prosperous, stable, and unified,” he continued. The audience responded with resounding applause—a chorus of agreement and affirmation.
A Clarion Call
Then Pastor Goodwill Mkhavele himself stepped forward, his presence both commanding and compassionate. “Enough is enough,” he declared, his voice resonating with deep emotion. “Enough with violence, enough with rape, enough with crime.” He spoke of unemployment and poverty as more than surface issues—they are symptoms of a deeper identity crisis facing men. His words were both a challenge and an embrace, urging every man to rediscover his purpose and dignity.
Confronting the Fatherless Wound
Advocate Mashabane followed, his tone measured but unflinchingly honest. “Most jails are filled by men,” he said, each word heavy with meaning. “Many have never seen their fathers, never heard the words ‘I love you’ from a father.” His message was both a lament and a call to action—highlighting the root causes of brokenness and challenging us to build a society where no child grows up fatherless.
Power with Purpose
Mr Newton Baloi then took the stage, his energy both infectious and grounding. “Power and money without respect for life is more dangerous than poverty itself,” he warned. His message was clear: true prosperity is found not in wealth alone, but in service to others, in uplifting communities and building lives of integrity and meaning.
A Community Engaged
When the floor opened for questions, the audience leaned forward—hungry to understand how to turn this vision into action. Questions about logistics, training, and opportunities revealed a community ready to embrace change. WAYA WAYA TV, Ekurhuleni News, and local radio stations captured every moment, ensuring the message of hope and renewal would spread beyond these walls.
A Seed Planted
Today was more than a gathering; it was a seed planted deep in the heart of our community. From the songs that stirred our souls to the prayers that united us, Imbizo ya Madoda marked the beginning of a journey—a promise to uplift every man, every family, and every community.
This is not just another initiative—it is a movement that proclaims: Enough is enough. Every man matters. Tomorrow starts today.
To every man, woman, and child who came—thank you. You are part of this journey. Let us walk it together, because this is not just an Imbizo; this is the future we are building, hand in hand.
