• Admin Admin
• April 28, 2025

There’s nothing like the freedom of being young. Nights out with friends, concerts, festivals, parties — it’s all part of making memories and living your best life.

But while we’re out having fun, it’s important to remember: not everything — or everyone — is as safe as it seems. For many young people between 17 and 24, being “out and about” comes with hidden risks. Gender-based violence, drink spiking, harassment, and assault happen more often than we talk about — and they don’t just happen to “someone else.” They can happen to anyone, anywhere.

By opening up these conversations, we can equip ourselves and each other with the tools to stay safe — without losing the freedom and fun we deserve.

Hidden Dangers Young People Need to Be Aware Of

1. Drink Spiking

In South Africa, drink spiking is on the rise, especially in clubs, bars, house parties, and festivals.
Substances are secretly slipped into drinks, making victims confused, helpless, and vulnerable to theft, assault, or worse.

Signs you might have been spiked include:

• Feeling suddenly drowsy or drunk after only a small amount of alcohol.
• Confusion, blurred vision, or loss of coordination.
• Memory loss or blacking out.

How to protect yourself:

• Always keep your drink in your hand and watch it being made.
• If you leave your drink unattended, rather get a new one.
• Stick with friends and look out for each other.
• If you feel weird, dizzy, or unsafe — ask someone you trust for help immediately.

2. E-Hailing & Transport Risks

Ridesharing apps like Uber and Bolt have made getting home easier — but not always safer.
Surveys show worrying statistics: 22% of women reported harassment during rides, and 9% experienced sexual assault. While anyone can be targeted, young women are especially vulnerable.

Transport Safety Tips:

• Double-check the driver’s photo, car model, and number plate before getting in.
• Share your ride location with a friend or family member.
• Sit in the back seat for easier exits.
• Trust your instincts — if anything feels off, cancel the ride.

A Special Note on Dangers Facing Young Women

While all young people face risks when going out, young women face even greater dangers due to gender-based violence.
In South Africa, rates of sexual assault, harassment, and femicide are among the highest in the world.

Predators often target young women specifically when they’re seen as vulnerable — after drinking, when alone, or when dependent on transport services.

It’s important for all young people — not just women — to recognize these risks and actively stand against gender-based violence:

• Friends need to look out for each other, regardless of gender.
• Men and boys have a role to play in creating safe spaces and calling out dangerous behavior.
• We all need to be allies, not bystanders.

Closing Off Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Knowledge is Power

At Sisonke, we believe young people deserve to enjoy life without fear.
But awareness is key. Recognizing the hidden dangers means we can protect ourselves, support our friends, and work toward safer communities for everyone.

As we wrap up Sexual Assault Awareness Month with this workshop, remember:

• Your safety matters.
• Your voice matters.
• You have the right to set boundaries and expect them to be respected.

Stay smart. Stay aware. Stay Sisonke.