On 13 September 2024, ACCORD, in collaboration with Parents, Families & Friends of South African Queers (PFSAQ), hosted a community workshop on conflict resolution in Diepkloof Zone 1, Soweto, in South Africa. This session formed part of ACCORD’s broader initiative to strengthen local peace capacities, and brought together thirty participants to engage in a vibrant intergenerational dialogue on managing community conflicts.
The workshop introduced fundamental conflict management strategies to a diverse group, including local church members, community elders, Lifeline caregivers, and numerous young people. The unique blend of attendees enriched discussions, with elders offering life experiences and wisdom, while younger participants shared fresh perspectives and expressed a strong interest in practical conflict resolution techniques.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in group discussions that focused on addressing conflicts within families, schools, and the broader community, including challenges around gender and equality. The workshop highlighted the South African National Action Plan (SA NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security as a framework for creating safer communities, and participants noted the need for more accessible resources to understand its relevance to everyday issues.
Feedback from participants indicated a strong desire for continued, community-based workshops to build on the skills learned, with suggestions for monthly sessions to deepen their understanding and address specific needs. Youth participants, in particular, expressed an interest in integrating conflict resolution into local youth programmes to help them better manage the challenges they encounter in daily life.
The session concluded with presentations from three breakout groups, each offering unique approaches to conflict resolution. Topics ranged from creating safe school spaces and managing family conflicts to addressing discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation. Participants left the workshop feeling empowered to apply these strategies within their communities, contributing to a safer, more unified Soweto.
This collaborative workshop between ACCORD and PFSAQ showcased the potential of community-driven peacebuilding efforts, highlighting the importance of intergenerational learning in fostering sustainable conflict resolution practices.
