Zakhe Khuzwayo: Championing Change with The Men Carve

# Zakhe Khuzwayo: Championing Change with The Men Carve Zakhe Khuzwayo is a young South African leader and the founder of The Men Carve Organisation, a community-driven organisation committed to promoting healthy masculinity, gender equality, respect and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) among young people. In recognition of his contribution to civil society, Zakhe received second prize in the Civil Society division at the DearSA Young Leaders Awards, held on 15 June 2024 at Montecasino in Johannesburg. This achievement recognised his dedication to youth development, community engagement and creating positive social change through The Men Carve. Guided by the IsiZulu proverb **“Ugotshwa Usamila,”** which highlights the importance of shaping a tree while it is still young, The Men Carve believes that positive attitudes, respectful relationships and healthy behaviours should be encouraged from an early age. Although the organisation primarily engages men and boys in conversations about masculinity, its programmes welcome people of all genders, with women making up approximately 40% of its participants. The organisation uses workshops and seminars to create safe spaces for conversations about gender stereotypes, socialisation, mental health and relationships. Activities such as the “Man Box” and “Possibility Box” encourage participants to reflect on social expectations, challenge harmful behaviours and explore healthier ways of expressing themselves and relating to others. Through school visits, The Men Carve promotes respect, empathy and inclusivity among learners while also supporting their personal development and providing guidance on university applications. Its university residence visits address mental health, intimate partner violence and responsible relationships, helping students build safer and more supportive environments. Beyond awareness and education, The Men Carve responds to practical community needs through its food parcel programme. Working with partners such as SA Harvest and Boxer Superstores, the organisation supports vulnerable university students and community members experiencing food insecurity. One notable achievement was distributing food parcels to 110 students and community members, exceeding its initial target. The organisation's work has received further recognition, including winning Programme of the Year at the Durban University of Technology's Envision2030 Institutional Awards in 2022. These achievements have helped increase the organisation's visibility, strengthen its credibility and create opportunities for partnerships and further community impact. Zakhe acknowledges the importance of mentorship in his leadership journey, particularly the guidance of his late DUT lecturer, Ms. Nomfundo Mbatha, and the support of his brother, Mr. Xolani Ngcobo, alongside other mentors and community leaders. Their encouragement has contributed to his personal growth and commitment to service. Balancing academic pursuits with organisational leadership, Zakhe applies his learning to practical community challenges. His approach reflects the belief that young people can become active participants in addressing social issues rather than waiting for others to bring about change. His message to aspiring leaders is simple: take initiative, embrace your purpose and act when opportunities arise. Through The Men Carve, Zakhe continues to advocate for gender equality, mental health awareness, youth empowerment and community support, working towards a society built on respect, empathy, accountability and inclusion. https://dears.africa/news/zakhe-khuzwayo-championing-change-with-the-men-carve