n Her Mind, In His Shoes: Stories of Change and Healing
Written by Angel Msiya
This Monday, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign came alive in an extraordinary event hosted by Impact Drivers, in collaboration with Audi Bryanston, Avon South Africa, The Tears Foundation, and Global Fund. Titled “In Her Mind, In His Shoes”, the podcast was more than just a gathering—it was a safe space where stories became bridges and voices united in the pursuit of change.
The event’s theme invited us to step into different perspectives: In Her Mind, we glimpsed the silent battles and triumphs of women navigating a world riddled with challenges. In His Shoes, we ventured into the complex mental landscape of men and boys, unraveling the societal expectations that shape their journeys. These phrases carried profound meaning, pushing us to see the world through eyes not our own and encouraging the empathy necessary for healing and progress.
A Room of Strangers, A Circle of Belonging
For me, the most powerful moment wasn’t just hearing the stories—it was feeling them. Sitting in a room full of strangers, I found myself tethered to them through the shared experiences of pain, resilience, and hope. As one person opened up about their struggles, I felt as though a piece of my own story was being spoken aloud.
It was in this intertwining of narratives that healing was fostered. We were no longer strangers but a collective of souls who understood each other in ways words couldn’t fully express. The walls of the room seemed to dissolve, leaving behind a circle of belonging. This sense of unity, even amidst our diverse backgrounds, reminded me of the profound power of shared humanity.
The Power of Stories
The event’s podcast-style setup encouraged dialogue that was both raw and reflective. A young woman shared how her silence had weighed her down until another person’s story gave her the courage to speak out. A young man reflected on the expectations of masculinity he had internalized and how unlearning them allowed him to rebuild healthier relationships. Each story was a mirror, reflecting both the struggles we endure and the hope we carry.
As I listened, I was reminded of how storytelling can be a balm for wounds long hidden. It inspires, challenges, and ultimately connects us. In those moments, I realized that healing isn’t just an individual process—it is collective, nurtured in the spaces where we dare to be vulnerable.
United Voices, United Vision
The collaboration between stakeholders added another layer of depth to the event. Organizations like Audi Bryanston, Avon South Africa, The Tears Foundation, and Global Fund brought unique perspectives to the conversation, proving that real change requires collective effort. Each partner contributed to the dialogue with one clear message: together, we can dismantle the roots of GBV and rebuild a society founded on respect and understanding.
A Call to Walk Together
As we stepped out of the room and back into the world, I carried with me not just the stories but also the weight of responsibility. Events like “In Her Mind, In His Shoes” remind us that the fight against GBV isn’t confined to campaigns or conferences—it lives in the everyday choices we make to listen, to learn, and to stand against injustice.
For once, I truly felt what it means to walk in her shoes, to explore the complexities of his mind, and to emerge from the experience with a deeper sense of purpose. To the brave individuals who shared their stories, to the organizers, and to everyone in that room: thank you for reminding me that even in a world of strangers, we can find belonging, foster healing, and work together toward lasting change.
