Let's talk about GBV

Artist and GBV survivor Taylor Jaye is a driving force for breaking silence. Here is how and why.
June Shimuoshili
Local artist Taylor Jaye will be hosting a First Ladies First concert in honour of celebrating the strong sisters and brothers of Africa, who are fighting against gender-based violence (GBV), and for all to break free from the violence plaguing our society.

The #FLFMovement concert is to support women, children, and men, who have experienced or have been exposed to any form of domestic violence. The aim of the event is to encourage the culture of reporting violence and to stop the vicious cycle of GBV in Namibian societies.

“We are living in a society where every other day someone is a victim of GBV. I know close friends and family who have experienced GBV. I have also gone through it. I feel it is important to create a platform that builds awareness. This will also encourage survivors to feel comfortable to speak out and seek help,” said Taylor Jaye.

According to the singer, the biggest problem preventing survivors from coming forward is the fear of society judging and tearing them down.

“With the# FLFMovement, we are educating society to be more compassionate towards survivors, we are encouraging women to be strong and stand up for themselves,” she said.

The movement started in South Africa. A variety of collaborations will take place with comedians, poets, singers, and rappers joining forces to bring awareness and also promote communication in an effort to put an end to GBV in Namibia. They include DJ Alba, Top Cheri, Janice Tobias, Lize Ehlers, Lioness and many others, for a range of eclectic performances and discussions to build a path to ending GBV.

“Entertainers have a wide reach globally with their voice and on other platforms, which people listen to and follow. Generally, our fans follow what we believe in and stand for as artists. This provides us with the perfect opportunity to use these platforms to create awareness about GBV. I think it is important that entertainers use their platforms wisely and positively to speak on social matters,” said Taylor Jaye.

The event will take place next weekend at the FNCC from 16:00 to 23:00. The programme includes a GBV panel discussion 17:30 to 18:30 and a concert from 19:30 to 23:00. The event is one close to Taylor Jaye's heart and she hopes to make it an annual event for female entertainers to uplift them.

“There is always a way out. No one deserves to be mistreated by anyone. So do not to be afraid and seek help. I want to create a platform to empower the females in the creative arts, as the entertainment industry is male-dominated and women often find ourselves discriminated against in our efforts to advance our careers and businesses,” she said.

June Shimuoshili

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-23

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