Talitha Oosthuizen, newly crowned Mrs South Africa 2nd Princess, is using her crown to champion a cause far bigger than pageantry: fighting gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
During the 16 Days of Activism from 25 November to 10 December, Oosthuizen is joining the national Women for Change campaign to raise awareness and support for survivors of abuse.
Her campaign, “More than a crown – breaking the chains of GBV,” reflects her determination to tackle cycles of abuse and bring hope to those affected.
The scourge of GBV in South Africa
South Africa continues to face alarming levels of GBV. According to the HSRC and SAPS quarterly figures for 2024/2025:
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137 women were murdered between January and March 2025.
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Over 1,000 women were raped in the same period.
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One in three women in South Africa has experienced physical intimate partner violence in their lifetime.
“These are not just statistics,” says Oosthuizen. “They are human lives, families shattered, and futures stolen. I refuse to let a crown just sit pretty. I will use every opportunity to shine a light on the darkest corners of our society, where too many women and children suffer in silence.”
The link between GBV and Human Trafficking
Oosthuizen is also well known for her work fighting human trafficking through her partnership with Shattering Shackles, one of South Africa’s few organisations tackling this crime. She highlights how GBV and trafficking often intersect, particularly through sexual exploitation and partner control, leading to both emotional and physical abuse.
A call to action
Oosthuizen’s message to survivors is powerful: “You are not your trauma.” She urges women to recognise their worth, seek help, and refuse to be defined by abuse.
She also encourages women to use their voices and pursue their dreams, whether that’s entering a pageant, advancing a career, or advocating for change. “You don’t need to be perfect,” she says. “You just need the courage to stand up, speak out, and lead.”
“I may wear a crown, but I carry a mission to help break the chains of gender-based violence, uplift women, and fight for a South Africa where women and children live in safety, dignity, and hope,” Oosthuizen says.
During the 16 Days of Activism, Oosthuizen encourages South Africans to donate to Shattering Shackles to support their fight against GBV and human trafficking. The NGO provides direct support and rehabilitation for survivors but is only able to reach one in 250 victims nationwide.
Susan Saila, Founder of Shattering Shackles, says: “Funds are crucial to expand awareness, education, and investigative support, as well as access to psychologists and other professionals essential to protecting more lives.”
Support the cause:
Blue Whisper Foundation
Nedbank Limited
Account Number: 1203478453
Branch Code: 198765
Swift Code: NEDSZAJJ
Reference: TIP (Trafficking in Persons)
Hotlines and Emergency Contacts:
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GBV National Command Centre: 0800 428 428 (24-hour)
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Human Trafficking Hotline: 0800 222 777
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Women Abuse Helpline: 0800 150 150
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SMS/USSD Support: Dial 120786#
Key awareness days during 16 Days of Activism:
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November 25: International Day of No Violence Against Women
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November 29: International Women Human Rights Defenders Day
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December 1: World AIDS Day
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December 3: International Day for Persons with Disabilities
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December 10: International Human Rights Day
