Gentlemen’s Club Skokvel Empowers West Rand Men
Thabo Motlhadi
The Gentlemen’s Club Stokvel, based in Rietvlei 2 & 3, Ext 2, successfully hosted a men’s conference on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Men from across the West Rand gathered in large numbers to participate in an open and honest dialogue about challenges affecting them in their homes, workplaces, and communities. The conference aimed to empower men in providing supportive structure where they could openly discuss their struggles and learn where to seek help.
Men are often perceived as individuals who suppress their emotions; when they eventually express them, it’s sometimes through anger and frustration, which can lead to physical, emotional, or psychological harm. The conference created a safe space for men to speak openly about their personal battles and to be guided towards constructive situations.
South African statistics show that men are among the leading contributors to rising cases of gender-based violence against women and children, as well as issues such as abandonment and the growing crisis of fatherless households. The gathering acknowledged these realities while encouraging accountability, healing, and positive transformation.
As the Chairperson of the Gentlemen’s Club Stokvel, Mr. Mboneni Mukwevho emphasized the importance of vulnerability and support.
“Men should be heard without shame. As men, you should not be ashamed and know that it’s your fault what is happening. You are not weak if you are asking for help. Men are overwhelmed, but there’s help out there.”
The conference served as a call for men to unite as a community, share their experiences, and collectively develop solutions. It also sought to challenge the narrative that labels men solely as abusers, murderers, or perpetrators instead of recognising them as fathers, community leaders, and mentors. The initiative aimed to restore dignity and reposition men in their rightful roles within society.
Award-winning author and publisher Mr Stan Montsho also addressed the attendees, stating:
“Firstly, we need to recognise the fact that before we are classified by society as men, we are human beings. Therefore, we need to honestly identify and communicate the challenges that beset us as human beings. Then, we can move to our limitations as men. Are there limitations man- made ? Is it something that we have to endure, or can we go somewhere else if it becomes too heavy for us to handle? Do not always prove our manhood. We should also be patient and not make choices that bind us to unavoidable problems and burdens.”
The programme concluded with an interaction session where attendees engaged one another and shared information on where to access professional help and counselling services.
Gentlemen’s Club Skokvel continues to position itself as a catalyst for men of the West Rand to speak up, seek support, and become active contributors to healthier families and communities.