Students held a raffle, arranged awareness drives and awareness activities, created spaces for dialogue on the campus radio station Boston Broadcasts and learnt many real-world lessons along the way, says the media house.

The drive unfolded over four weeks and culminated in POWA Day; a vibrant and emotional event held on campus. Highlights of the day included a candle lighting ceremony to honour victims and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), a powerful poetry reading and live performances that brought the campus together in support of the cause, adds the media house.

POWA CEO, Fatima Shaik, joined the event and gave an inspiring address that reminded students of their power to drive societal change. She states, "Young people hold the power to transform our future. By challenging harmful attitudes, speaking out and educating themselves and others, they can stop gender-based violence before it begins. Prevention is always better than cure — and the voices of students are vital in building safer, more equal communities. Campaigns like this show that ending GBV starts with awareness, courage and the collective action of today's youth."

Adding to the day's impact, Boston Media House Student Counsellor, Thembelani Nyathi, unpacked the hidden forms of GBV and dismantled common misconceptions, leaving students with a renewed sense of responsibility and hope, says the media house.

Beyond raising R4-000, the 'Shatter Norms' campaign provided students with invaluable hands-on experience in event planning, sponsorship outreach, media engagement and public advocacy — preparing them for the transition into professional practice. The PR2 class also joined in by volunteering their time, showcasing Boston Media House's culture of collaboration and community spirit, adds the media house.

Reflecting on the journey, PR3 students Itumeleng, Nonhlanhla and Nolo says, "This campaign pushed us out of our comfort zones. It showed us that PR isn't only about building brands and hosting events — it can also be a tool for real change. Raising funds and awareness for POWA proved that even as students, our voices matter and we can spark important conversations."

This sentiment was echoed by PR lecturer, Claire Jackson-Bernardo, saying, "The PR3 Class of 2025 proved that by working together, and learning along the way, meaningful change is possible."

The campaign's success was made possible by the generosity of sponsors including Benmore Shopping Centre, Sorbet, Sorbet Man, Mr D, Empire Entertainment, Cannafrica, Drinkerbell and Nevin Sher — The Diamond Guy. Their contributions of vouchers, hampers and prizes not only enabled fundraising but also demonstrated the value of brands standing behind student-led causes, concludes the media house.

For more information, visit www.bostonmediahouse.ac.za. You can also follow Boston Media House on Facebook, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor