Witbank News had the honour of selecting a special recipient at this year’s Best of eMalahleni Readers’ Choice Awards, presenting the award to a local woman who has dedicated her life to helping others heal.
The editorial team unanimously chose Abongile Mcoki, an outspoken gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) activist, in recognition of her tireless advocacy for victims of abuse.
Mcoki’s journey began in 2024 when she survived a horrific assault by her sister’s ex-boyfriend, who stabbed her with a broken bottle.
Frustrated by initial delays in the justice system, she turned to TikTok to share her story, where her video gained widespread public attention.
The perpetrator, Lebohang Victor Sechefo, was subsequently arrested, convicted of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment.
The road to justice was fraught with obstacles. From the outset, the matter was complicated when the case was struck off the court roll and later reinstated amid allegations of police mishandling and conflict of interest.
Refusing to let the ordeal define her, Mcoki channelled her experience into activism by founding the non-profit organisation All Voices Matter.
She is now a constant presence at court, guiding and supporting survivors and their families through difficult legal proceedings.
Mcoki explained that the most challenging phase for any victim is taking the first steps after reporting abuse. “One of the misconceptions is that reporting abuse automatically leads to safety and justice; that is only the beginning of a long journey,” she said.
She noted that victims frequently face social stigma, compounded by severe emotional trauma, financial hardship and systemic delays in the legal process.
Overcoming her own trauma, Mcoki stepped on to the stage to accept the award with quiet dignity. “I am so honoured,” she said as she wiped away tears.
Offering words of encouragement to other GBVF survivors, Mcoki added: “You are not alone, you are not to blame. Your voice matters. “This journey is one of daily reflection. I understand now that healing is not just about recovering from what happened; it is also about helping create a world where fewer people have to experience the same pain.”
