sportskeeda
With the conclusion of the Carling Knockout for the All-Star team approaching this month in the 2024/25 season, Carling emphasizes the importance of nurturing a community of outstanding men in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Men are urged to use their masculinity to protect and support women instead of causing harm.
Survivors of abuse are encouraged to raise their voices in the quest to eliminate GBV in South Africa, a pervasive issue affecting countless women daily.
Carling is set to conclude its program in partnership with the PSL when Magesi FC, the reigning champions of the Carling Knockout Cup, face off against the All-Star team, selected by fans and comprising five players from DStv Diski Challenge teams, at Orlando Stadium on December 21.
In support of this cause, Carling has launched the #NoExcuse campaign, which emphasizes that there is no excuse for GBV. This initiative aims to empower men to develop positive character traits and become responsible members of society, contributing to a South Africa free from GBV.
“Looking back at South Africa in 2017, we faced a critical surge in Gender-Based Violence, including an alarming increase in cases of women being burned and killed by their partners,” stated Carling brand manager Nonjabulo Ndwandwe during an interview with Sportswire.
“As a notable brand like Carling Black Label, we have a duty to tackle these challenges. We acknowledge the link between men, alcohol misuse, and domestic violence. While we accept our involvement in the issue, we are committed to being part of the solution.
“We established the #NoExcuse platform to assert that no justification exists for GBV. By fostering positive community interactions, we aim to provide men with the necessary resources to enhance their character and emerge as role models, ultimately leading to a society free from Gender-Based Violence in South Africa.”
This campaign operates independently of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, which spanned from November 25 to December 10, 2024, under the theme “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence Against Women and Children.” Carling’s initiative is ongoing, featuring workshops and online resources designed to educate and empower individuals year-round.
“Our pledge extends throughout the entire year,” emphasized Ndwandwe.
“We continue our activities consistently, offering the same workshop we hosted last Tuesday in Durban (Harnessing The Power Of Positive Masculine), with courses also accessible online for further learning.”
“We hold that each individual has a part to play, and by coming together to learn about positive behaviors, we can significantly diminish the occurrences of Gender-Based Violence.”
Carling is aware of the potential negative impact of alcohol consumption on social issues, including GBV. To address this concern, the brand is committed to promoting responsible drinking and supporting those affected by abuse.
“Through the #NoExcuse campaign, we are bringing attention to the issues related to GBV and providing workshops focused on educating men,” Ndwandwe added. “We are also collaborating with NGOs and community leaders to create comprehensive solutions to this complex problem. We encourage anyone seeking help to reach out to us via WhatsApp at 0800150150. We provide counseling services and connect individuals with mentors for guidance and support.”
Ndwandwe concluded by asserting the unequivocal nature of abuse. She implored victims to reach out for help and called upon everyone to join in the mission to foster a society free from GBV. “This message is for everyone, not just women – there is absolutely no excuse for abuse,” she affirmed.
“If you need help, please contact us via WhatsApp at 0800150150. We are here to provide counseling and connect you with a mentor to support you in overcoming challenges, ultimately promoting a society without Gender-Based Violence.
“This principle is universal, no matter the gender; we firmly believe that there is no excuse for anyone, particularly men, to engage in abusive conduct within our nation.”
