How storytelling can heal

When we first introduced the Fathers Matter programme, we had one clear mission: to address a deep and often unspoken wound that many South Africans carry. Now, Fathers Matter is the core focus at Heartlines as we look to halve fatherlessness in a generation. 

As this year starts, the most meaningful resolution you can make may not be about what you want to achieve, but about how you choose to live. 

Through initiatives involving young people, communities, education and law enforcement, dedicated South Africans are working to reduce violence and inspire empathy and trust.

On 29 October 2025, Heartlines, in partnership with the University of the Witwatersrand School of Governance hosted the Rethinking Fatherhood, Gender, and Masculinity in South Africa symposium.

The Building Futures programme aims to strengthen and increase collaboration in communities such as George, where a pilot was done with 26 participants from different sectors across society.

In every South African home there is a story that whispers across generations. A story of women who’ve had to endure and show their resilience even when they were weary to the bone.