On Women’s Day 2025, the Viva Foundation of South Africa hosted a powerful, national tribute titled #1000DeadBodies, commemorating the thousands of lives lost to genderbased violence and femicide in South Africa. Held at Viva Connect in Cullinan, the tribute brought together community members, activists, artists, media, and stakeholders in a unified national call to action.
The tribute’s name, #1000DeadBodies, is a stark and sobering reflection of the harsh reality facing South Africa today. Over 1,000 women lose their lives every quarter due to genderbased violence (GBV) and femicide—an epidemic that devastates families, communities, and the nation at large. The installation of 1,000 drone shot served as a visual representation of these lives lost, transforming abstract statistics into a tangible and urgent call for action. By naming the protest #1000DeadBodies, the Viva Foundation aimed to represent to the public the scale of this crisis, refusing to let these women’s stories remain invisible or ignored.
Set against the stark symbolism, the installation served as both a memorial and a movement — urging South Africans to sign a national petition demanding urgent improvements to policing and the protection of women and children.
The agenda featured opening remarks by Nonkululeko Khumalo, principal of Viva
Independent Schools and board secretary of the Viva Foundation; a keynote by Meleney Bough-Berry-Kriel, founder and CEO of the Viva Foundation; as well as performances and tributes from artists and community leaders.
A defining moment of the day was the #1000DeadBodies Drone Shot, capturing the scale of the gathering from above and symbolizing national unity in the face of crisis.
This year’s activation was proudly sponsored by Limitless Occupational Therapy — a partner whose values and community focus closely align with the Viva Foundation’s mission.
Limitless Occupational Therapy, through its focus on holistic wellness and empowerment, complements Viva’s survivor-led approach by providing critical support that fosters healing and resilience within affected communities.
Together, we were able to create a powerful synergy — uniting corporate responsibility, community health, and grassroots activism to confront gender-based violence head-on.
Lesego Tau, Director of Limitless Occupational Therapy and campaign partner, reflected on the day:
“This was more than just an event — it was a moment to come together in hope and solidarity. Every life lost reminds us of the importance of supporting survivors and creating safer communities. Furthermore, it is important for communities to create a safe and inclusive environment for children and women with disabilities, therefore reducing their state of vulnerability in such instances.We are honoured to partner with the Viva Foundation in this journey of healing and empowerment for women and children.”
Although the event has concluded, the petition remains open until the end of August, allowing the public to continue adding their voices to the cause. Each signature sends a strong message calling for increased responsiveness, accountability, and protection for women and children.
To add your voice and sign the petition, please visit: openpetition.org/!1000deadbodies Or scan the QR code below:
About the Viva Foundation of South Africa
Founded in 2007, the Viva Foundation of South Africa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating sustainable, community-led transformation. Headquartered in Cullinan, Gauteng, and deeply embedded in the Alaska Informal Settlement in Pretoria, the Foundation operates using a Service Hub Model — establishing safe, accessible platforms where Viva and partner organizations can deliver a comprehensive range of services tailored to the felt and expressed needs of vulnerable communities.
The Viva Foundation is part of a broader international network, with registered entities and active operations in South Africa, Germany, and Brazil. This global presence reflects a united mission to address poverty, social injustice, and gender-based violence through locally relevant, survivor-led solutions.
With nearly two decades of grassroots impact, Viva works to uplift vulnerable children and families through education, safety, empowerment, and trauma-informed community support. Its programs are holistic in nature, combining independent schooling, arts-based development, gender-based violence response, and food security initiatives to create real, lasting change.
“Founded on Vision. Rooted in Community.”
Viva’s work is born from purpose and powered by people — a collective of local leaders, international allies, and grassroots champions united by the belief that transformation begins with dignity, access, and care.
Media Contact:
📧 info@vivafoundation.life
📞 082-228-6187
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