In the diverse landscape of South Africa, parents often find themselves navigating the intricate balancing act inherent in giving our children freedom and protecting them from harm. For some of us this is harder than for others, depending on our environment, where we live and the landscape (both physical and political) around us. And in the midst of our struggle, our kids seem to be paying the price as they grow. As an NGO committed to supporting families, Arise recognizes the profound impact of environmental factors on child development and how they shape the trajectory of our children’s lives. At the heart of it, is the fundamental human right to safety, yet that is not always the truth for all of us.
Human rights serve as the cornerstone of a just and equitable society. In South Africa, a country with a rich history of overcoming adversity, the struggle for human rights has been central to its narrative. From the fight against apartheid to ongoing efforts to promote social justice, the notion of universal rights forms the bedrock of our collective aspirations. Yet for many families, their basic human rights to water, shelter, education, health and to provide for themselves, continue to be undermined and is inextricably harder to achieve than for others. This impacts all of us, but perhaps our children who are growing up in these unjust environments most of all.
Beyond the confines of legislation and policy, the environment in which children grow up plays a pivotal role in shaping their identities and experiences. Our surroundings encompass not only physical spaces but also cultural, socioeconomic, and familial contexts. From the vibrancy of urban centers to the tranquility of rural landscapes, each environment leaves an indelible mark on the young minds that inhabit them. Yet when you are surrounded by violence, disregard for human life, hunger and abuse; what sort of brains are we building?
Children are not passive recipients of their surroundings; rather, they actively engage with and are influenced by the world around them. Consider the child growing up in a community marked by poverty and social exclusion. Their access to education, healthcare, and basic amenities may be compromised, impeding their ability to realize their full potential. Conversely, a child raised in an environment characterized by inclusivity, support, and opportunity is more likely to thrive and flourish. This past Human Rights Day, let’s consider that perhaps our children are responding to the environments they are being raised in and look towards what we can do to change that.
At the same time, can we recognize the resilience our children already have and help them grow it? Can we teach them practical skills to help them solve the conflicts and problems they face in ways that are respectful but assertive? Can we be the relationship in our child’s life that shows them their inherent worth? Can we show our kids how to advocate for themselves, by advocating for change?
You see, we work with many children at-risk in our most violent communities in Cape Town, and yet, we see the fullness of their story. Not just an angry teenage boy getting involved in drugs and gangs or a young teenage girl falling pregnant. But rather a boy whose life has been tough from the get go-born to a drug addicted mother passed from family member to family member and struggling to fit in and yet, he chooses to come to school. He is a leader among his peers and has the potential to turn risky behaviour to behaviour that helps him flourish. That pregnant teenage girl is a girl who is struggling with low self-esteem and is a young girl who has way too much responsibility at home for a young girl but found love and affection with a young boy who gave her what she so desperately craves. And yet, despite it all she still wants a better life for her and her unborn child. She is so creative, nurturing and has the potential to be the next graphic designer but needs more support.
At Arise, we know as parents, guardians, and caregivers, we play a pivotal role in shaping the environments in which our children grow. By modelling healthy communication, recognizing the inherent rights of our children, treating them with dignity and respect, strengthening our relationship with them and creating as nurturing an environment as we can in our sphere of influence, we create an ecosystem that fosters their holistic development. Moreover, by advocating for policies and practices that prioritize the well-being of children, we pave the way for a more equitable society for future generations.
At Arise, we are committed to empowering parents and caregivers to create environments where children can thrive. Through our programs and initiatives, we strive to deepen relationships, build resilience, nurture strengths, grow problem solving skills and develop a sense of belonging. Part of this is advocating for policies that safeguard the rights of children. By working together, we can build a brighter future for all South African children, where their rights are respected, and their potential is unleashed.
Written by Robyn Jacobs