The New World Foundation (NWF) marked an important milestone with the completion of its four-part Parenting Workshop Series, held between February and March this year.

The initiative, which has been running for over a year, continues to gain momentum as more parents from the Lavender Hill community show interest in strengthening their parenting skills and contributing to a safer environment for their children.

This year’s series took place from Saturday 7 February to Friday 20 March, and was presented in collaboration with key stakeholders including police, the Steenberg precinct and the Community Policing Forum (CPF).

The workshops form part of the broader Lavender Hill Community Safety Plan, addressing ongoing social challenges affecting families in the area.

The programme focused on equipping parents with practical tools to navigate common family challenges such as behavioural concerns, emotional stress, and the pressures faced by at-risk youth.

Through interactive sessions, reflective exercises, and group discussions, participants were encouraged to adopt positive parenting practices, strengthen emotional bonds with their children, and better understand the importance of family preservation.

A key strength of the series was its structured, multi-week format, which allowed parents to build trust, share experiences, and reflect on their progress over time.

Facilitators noted increased engagement and openness among participants as the weeks progressed, contributing to a stronger sense of group cohesion and a more impactful learning experience.

Community representatives praised the initiative as a valuable preventative intervention, highlighting its role in addressing the root causes of social issues within families.

By focusing on the home environment, the workshops complement broader safety efforts in the area.

Parents responded positively, embracing the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive space.

Many expressed a renewed sense of confidence in their parenting and a deeper commitment to fostering positive change within their households.

Following the success of the recent series, the New World Foundation plans to expand the programme, with the next round of workshops scheduled for May this year.

The Parenting Workshop Series stands as a powerful example of community-driven action, demonstrating how empowering families can contribute to safer, more resilient communities in Lavender Hill.

For more information contact Audrey Jacobs at audrey@newworldfoundation.org.za.