Cape Town, South Africa – The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation brought together its network of Ambassadors from across South Africa for its annual Ambassadors Conference, held from 26 to 28 September in Cape Town. The gathering provided an opportunity for community leaders, youth activists and change-makers to reflect on their work, exchange experiences and strengthen their capacity to drive positive change within their communities.

The conference forms part of the IJR’s broader efforts through its Memory, Arts and Culture (MAC) Project, which explores how shared and contested histories continue to shape identity, relationships and belonging in South Africa. Through dialogue, storytelling, creative expression and cultural practices, the project seeks to create spaces where communities can engage with difficult histories, reclaim marginalised narratives and contribute to healing, social cohesion and justice.

Facilitated by Nosindiso Mtimkulu, the conference featured a range of experienced practitioners, including Danielle Hoffmeester, Bafana Hlatswayo, Dr Jacob Cloete and Eleanor Du Plooy, who shared their expertise on topics ranging from wellness and personal development to storytelling and community leadership.

A central theme of the conference was wellness and self-care. Participants engaged in practical exercises led by Nosindiso Mtimkulu and Eleanor Du Plooy, designed to strengthen emotional resilience and support ambassadors in sustaining their important work within communities.

Storytelling also featured prominently throughout the programme. Through interactive sessions, ambassadors explored the power of personal and collective narratives as tools for healing, identity formation and social change. Danielle Hoffmeester highlighted the importance of inclusivity and ensuring that all voices within communities are heard and valued.

The conference further encouraged participants to exchange lessons from their own community initiatives, creating opportunities for peer learning and innovation. A particularly popular session was led by published author Dr Jacob Cloete, who shared insights into the process of writing and documenting community experiences, encouraging ambassadors to preserve and share their stories.

Confidence, Opportunity and Personal Growth

One of the most significant outcomes reflected in participants’ feedback was a growing sense of confidence and self-belief. As part of the conference, ambassadors wrote letters describing the impact that IJR programmes have had on their personal journeys and community work.

Many participants spoke of developing a stronger sense of identity, improved self-care practices, greater ability to navigate community challenges and increased confidence in engaging diverse groups.

Efraim Fortuin attributed much of his personal growth to the IJR’s Youth and Identity Project, writing: “This project helped me a lot because I was afraid of using my voice, but IJR taught me to stand in my power, take up space because my voice matters.”

Ambassadors also shared examples of opportunities that emerged through their involvement with the programme. Among these was Jerry Mothonyana’s election as leader of the Magareng Community Forum, demonstrating how leadership skills gained through community engagement can translate into broader civic participation.

The reflections revealed that ambassadors continue to apply the skills and support they receive through the programme to facilitate meaningful dialogues in their communities.

One notable example came from Jessolene Baartman of Calitzdorp, who organised a Women’s Day Workshop that provided older women with a platform to share personal histories, exchange knowledge and discuss issues affecting their lives. According to Baartman, the initiative was so successful that participants continue to speak about the experience and have expressed a desire for similar events in the future.

These community-led dialogues illustrate the tangible impact of the ambassador programme and its contribution to strengthening social cohesion and local participation.

Although not prompted to do so, many ambassadors used their letters to express appreciation for the individuals who have supported their development throughout their journey with the IJR.

Giovanni Reanu Britz thanked Nosindiso Mtimkulu, Danielle Hoffmeester, Jodi Williams and Eleanor Du Plooy for the guidance, mentorship and knowledge they had provided. He also highlighted the important role played by IJR staff members such as Felicity Harrison, describing the organisation as an “anchor” in his life.

As the conference drew to a close, ambassadors expressed a strong commitment to continuing their work in communities across South Africa. Their reflections underscored the lasting impact that the IJR has had not only on their personal development but also on their vision for the future.

Summing up this sense of purpose, long-serving ambassador Shadrach Theys reflected: “IJR Ambassadors are here to stay. We are in the community, from the community and for the community.”

The conference reaffirmed the importance of investing in local leadership, supporting community-driven solutions and amplifying voices that are often overlooked. As the IJR’s ambassadors return to their respective communities, they do so equipped with renewed confidence, practical skills and a shared commitment to advancing justice, inclusion and social change.