Zithulele

Zithulele s a writer and performer from South Africa. He ponders the meaning of fatherhood in his life, past and present. As a child, he was regularly disciplined and beaten by his father. As an adult, he loves his father dearly and thanks him for making him the person he is today.

In the end, Zithulele wonders what kind of father he will be.

Key points to consider in viewing Zithulele’s story

People hold a range of beliefs about childrearing and appropriate discipline. Zithulele’s story focuses on parenting, discipline, and the relationships that fathers have with their children. As you watch the story, keep in mind that you may react strongly with anger, sadness, or defensiveness to the issues about parenting that it raises. Be sensitive to your own response by acknowledging the reality of multiple perspectives. At the same time, remember to condemn violence, in relation to parenting and family roles.

Learn More

Sonke works with many communities to use storytelling and digital media to help people tell their own stories around gender, violence, HIV and AIDS and related issues.

Sonke partnered with Silence Speaks to enable young people and adults affected by violence and HIV and AIDS to share their stories. Other digital stories have been produced with former prisoners who experienced sexual violence in jail. And the MenEngage African Youth Alliance and Sonke partnered with UNFPA to produce “Youth Stories of Change” along with a discussion guide and other resources.

Through intensive, participatory video production workshops, Sonke is bringing rarely-heard voices and images into the civic arena. Our hope is that by highlighting everyday stories, we will deepen existing conversations about gender norms and health issues, as well as empower the storytellers and their communities.

Download Resources

Click here to download a facilitator’s guide, discussion guides and other Digital Stories resources to assist in the use of these tools in your community.