Sizakuyenza

Sizakuyenza — meaning "we are doing it for ourselves" — was established in 2005 in Philippi, on the Cape Flats, in direct response to the devastating impact that the HIV epidemic, family breakdown, and gender-based violence were having on women, girls, and children living in informal settlements. Two decades later, Sizakuyenza has grown into a deeply trusted organisation serving some of Cape Town's most vulnerable communities, with a vision of a peaceful, thriving Philippi where people feel and are safe from harm.

Their work is grounded in three interconnected programmes: a shelter for survivors of intimate partner violence, community-based social work and psychosocial support, and substance abuse early intervention and aftercare. All three are deeply embedded within Philippi and its surrounding areas.

Note: Sizakuyenza also manages the Casa Del Sorriso (House of Smiles) Safe House in partnership with the Italian humanitarian organisation CESVI — see the CESVI listing on this site for more information on that programme.

What They Offer Survivors

Casa Del Sorriso Safe House — Emergency Shelter Sizakuyenza operates the Casa Del Sorriso (House of Smiles) Safe House — a 20-bed refuge for women and their children who are survivors of domestic violence and intimate partner violence. If you are in danger and need somewhere safe to go in the Philippi area, this shelter provides immediate refuge, warmth, and professional care. The focus is on ensuring your safety, reducing the harm of the abuse you have experienced, and supporting you to rebuild your life.

Victim Empowerment Programme This is Sizakuyenza's core programme for GBV survivors. It includes individual social work sessions, counselling, practical support, and skills development — all focused on one goal: that women who have experienced abuse can rebuild their lives, gain independence, and never have to return to an abusive situation. Survivors in the shelter are supported with a varied therapeutic programme, healing activities, and skills training throughout their stay.

Children and Families Support Sizakuyenza provides dedicated support for children and families who have experienced trauma caused by death, loss, grief, or direct exposure to violence or abuse. This programme recognises that the effects of violence on children are serious and need to be addressed alongside support for adult survivors.

Substance Abuse Programme — Early Intervention and Aftercare Substance abuse and GBV are frequently interconnected. Sizakuyenza offers both early intervention and aftercare support for substance abuse, providing a pathway to recovery for those in the community dealing with drug and alcohol dependency alongside their other challenges.

Community Outreach and Advocacy Sizakuyenza conducts community awareness and education programmes in Philippi and surrounding areas — raising awareness about GBV, femicide, and the services available to survivors. Their community-based facilitators bring information directly to people where they live.

All services are centred in and designed for communities in Philippi and the surrounding Cape Flats area. The Safe House is available 24 hours.