Stories – Fathers Matter

How to understand your journey as a survivor of abuse

Even though Martin had the house, wife and child he'd always wanted, he lived with the fear of perpetuating the same violence he experienced growing up, because “society” had programmed him to think that victims are doomed to repeat the same violence they experience.

Fighting GBV: More fences, fewer ambulances

The scourge of gender-based violence continues unabated. And while there are interventions, many of them focus on providing assistance after the fact, rather than addressing root causes.

Hitting the road with purpose

Watch the story of how a biking club in Soweto is encouraging men to show up and share their lives and passions (including biking) with their children.

Heartlines Fathers Matter Ambassadors Conference

The Heartlines Fathers Matter Conference took place in October 2023 at the Good News Convention Center in Muldersdrift. People from different walks of life came together to discuss and unpack an issue many grapple with: fatherlessness.

A dad’s greatest influence and responsibility is in their home

It’s not in the boardroom, at the office or on the sports field where a father matters most, but right at home, says Zane Meas.

Sport and life come together at Stellenbosch FC

Watch the highlights of Fathers Matter's work with PSL team Stellenbosch FC.

We want men to have a positive impact in children's lives

For boys who are growing up without their fathers around, male mentorship gives them important support and positive role models.

A happy Father’s Day for the dads of Alex

Making safe spaces for fathers and their children to spend time together in celebration of Father's Day.

Passing down biking passion to the next generation

Ahead of Father’s Day on 18 June, Heartlines partnered up with the Ride with a Boy Child initiative, hosted by the Greater Soweto Bikers, to support fathers and bikers who want to be more actively involved in their sons’ lives.

Fathers can be great caregivers

Old ideas about what a father should be and do are changing. It’s important to start having important conversations about how fathers can be present and contribute more to their children’s lives than just money.

Papa do my hair

Is haircare a woman's job? Mahlatse Mashua doesn't think so. When his daughter asked him to do her hair while his wife was away, he realised he needed to learn some practical skills.

Fathers Matter and Stellenbosch FC

Professional athletes face serious pressure through their careers and they need positive relational support on their journeys. This can be from their fathers, or social fathers around them who give them encouragement and guidance.