For many of the graduates who gathered in Johannesburg this month, walking across the stage in a graduation gown was a first. It was also a powerful affirmation that their experiences, voices and leadership matter.
SafePlace International celebrated on 8 July, the graduation of participants from its 2025 to 2026 Dream Academy Leadership and Parenting programmes, bringing together community members from across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Eswatini.
Held at the Gender Links Cottages and Observatory Sports Club, the ceremony honoured graduates who have spent the past year developing leadership skills while participating in a programme that places healing, personal growth and community transformation at its core.
“Marginalised communities do not lack talent, passion or leadership potential,” said Mpho Nemangani, Community Engagement Manager for SafePlace International South Africa. “When people are given the space to heal from past traumas, reconnect with their purpose and lead from a place of wholeness, they become powerful architects of change.”
The Dream Academy combines leadership development with personal healing, encouraging participants to confront trauma, build confidence and return to their communities as advocates for justice and inclusion.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers emphasised that leadership is rooted in compassion and collective action rather than individual success.
Activist Jade Mandingwane urged graduates to ensure that their achievements create opportunities for others.
“Leadership is not about standing in front of people; it is about walking beside them and ensuring no one is left behind,” Mandingwane said.
Several graduates shared deeply personal reflections on their journeys.
Nteteko, who runs an organisation in Alexandra, challenged assumptions about disability, saying that society may place limits on people’s bodies but should never limit their dreams.
Another graduate, Mama Nelly, received warm applause after speaking about becoming a stronger ally to the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I have learned that allyship is love in action,” she said. “No one will abuse or speak low of the queer community in my presence because every person deserves dignity and respect.”
Another participant, Sasa, highlighted the need for greater compassion towards migrants and refugees, while graduate Tshepiso reflected on overcoming self-doubt through the programme.
“I came here as someone who doubted their voice,” Tshepiso said. “I leave knowing that my voice matters and that my community needs what I have to offer.”
Representatives from the Colombian and German embassies, alongside legal and civil society leaders, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to continue championing human rights, equality and community solidarity.
The event also featured performances by young artists from Ekurhuleni’s Young Ambitious (E.Y.A.) group and graduate Nathy, whose music celebrated resilience, creativity and hope.
SafePlace International says the Dream Academy is designed to strengthen leadership within marginalised communities by recognising that healing and social change are closely connected. Graduates leave not only with certificates but with practical skills, support networks and renewed confidence to lead initiatives in their own communities.
For LGBTQIA+ people, who often face discrimination, exclusion and violence, programmes that invest in leadership and wellbeing remain vital.
As one graduate summed up the day’s significance: “Today we are not graduating from a course; we are graduating into our purpose.”
