Building Inclusive Communities: Master’s Research Tackles Gender-Based Violence

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Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue in South Africa, where entrenched patriarchal norms continue to fuel discrimination and abuse.

The LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more) community, often faces compounded challenges related to gender-based violence, demonstrating the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing this issue.

Aspiring academic Ms Ronica Bagwandin (a member of staff at UKZN) graduated cum laude with a Master's in Social Sciences for her research looking into homophobic victimisation experienced by members of the LGBTQ+ community in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. Her study explored how sexual orientation and gender identity make individuals more vulnerable to targeted attacks.

Her research advocates for a more inclusive society, it challenges heteronormative narratives whilst recognising that traumatic experiences can prompt critical conversations and societal change.

Bagwandin explored the contributing characteristics and factors that made the LGBTQ+ community vulnerable to homophobic victimisation.

‘My research sought to understand the effects of these homophobic attacks and how participants navigated their identities to avoid further victimisation. It further explored participants’ perceptions about reporting victimisations to the police,’ she said.

She added that, ‘Those who support victims also become targets, seen as defying the dominant heteronormative value system.’

Her findings revealed that homophobic attacks included physical assault, psychological bullying, sexual violence, and verbal harassment. Cultural and religious norms that promote heteronormativity were key contributing factors.

Participants reported mental and emotional trauma. Many feared re-victimisation and lacked confidence in police response, which discouraged them from reporting incidents.

According to Bagwandin, participants suffer a significant mental, emotional, and psychological harm as a result of these experiences; and other findings suggest that many adopted coping strategies to avoid further victimisation, while fearing re-victimisation and inadequate police response may hinder these victims from reporting incidents.

‘Homophobia impacts everyone, including heterosexuals and that by sharing experiences of homophobic attacks, we can help recondition mindsets and reduce aggression and stress related to homophobia,’ emphasised Bagwandin.

She credited her supervisor, Ms Philiswe Hadebe, for her unwavering patience and guidance. She highlighted the meaningful connections she formed with participants and the insights she gained from their lived experiences.

‘Many of the participants were young and had faced parental rejection or struggled to express themselves around older generations. As a parent, I felt honoured when they thanked me for creating a space where they could be authentic,’ she said.

Hadebe expressed her congratulations, commending her student’s independence, commitment, and passion as well as her research skills, critical thinking, and expertise in the field. ‘Her compassion and empathy towards the LGBTQI+ community were another factor that contributed to a successful journey,’ she said.

Hadebe praised Bagwandin’s ability to balance work, family, and studies, highlighting her resilience and determination. Hadebe revealed that this journey has motivated Bagwandin to complete her PhD.

Her sons, Mr Nervay Mikyle Bagwandin and Mr Revaan Kashmiq Bagwandin, remained persistent and motivated their mum to make a difference through education and giving people a voice through this study.

Nervay congratulated his mom, saying, ‘Mom, you have inspired both me and Revaan through your constant thirst for knowledge. Your perseverance towards your studies has shown us that, through education, our possibilities are limitless. Both of us are so incredibly proud and honoured to get to call you our mother.’

Her husband, Mr Naresh Bagwandin said: ‘Congratulations my precious soul mate. I am super proud of all your achievements. I salute your effortless dedication to your study which has certainly made this worth it.’

Bagwandin urged society to recognise the legitimacy of sexual diversity and reject the stigma of non-conformity to traditional gender norms. She emphasised that education is key to dismantling prejudice and fostering tolerance.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini