Leonie Viljoen's climb for change: Supporting GBV survivors

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

Leonie Viljoen, who is from Boston, Bellville, and has survived abuse twice in her life, began 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. I climb for women whose struggle is steeper than Kilimanjaro, whose endurance is greater, and whose courage is limitless.”

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.”

Having worked with women struggling in the aftermath of abuse, Viljoen said too many victims remain unsure of their rights or the proper steps to take when seeking justice or healing.

“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.

“Through its trauma training course and the establishment of the GBV Warriors initiative, 1000 Women Trust offers a shelter, safety, and the fierce belief that every woman deserves to live free from fear. When I ascend Kilimanjaro, it is to raise financial support so that 1000 Women Trust can expand its services and create an even wider and deeper footprint.”

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 here.  

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 intern@1000women.co.za.

“I want to call women to action to do the Kilimanjaro event in their own time and place. Run 5895 metres, walk 5895 metres or cycle 5895 metres, any way to show support.”

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

Tina Thiart, co-founder of 1000 Women Trust, said: “This is an opportunity for women to take action in solidarity with GBV survivors, to strengthen the organisation’s reach, and to help us establish more safe rooms in GBV hotspots across the country.”

Viljoen said the Kilimanjaro climb had been a personal goal since 2018, but the experience now holds much deeper significance.

“This is me showing up, for myself and for the millions of women who have experienced GBV. Showcasing resilience to reach the top despite what I had to endure in my life. Strengthen my hand by donating now,” she said.

For more information about 1000 Women Trust, visit www.1000women.co.za, call 061 469 0479 or email info@1000women.co.za.

mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za