In response to the alarming rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide, Carling Black Label (CBL), one of South Africa’s most beloved beer brands, has launched its impactful 2024 #NoExcuse Campaign.

On Tuesday, December 10th, Carling Black Label hosted an activation event that brought together members of the media to engage in an open dialogue about GBV, the urgent need for change, and the grim statistics affecting the country. Media representatives were introduced to the 6 Champion Virtues program, a powerful initiative designed to empower men with the tools to become nation builders and positive role models in society.

Nonjabulo Ndwandwe, Carling Black Label’s brand manager, emphasized that the primary goal of this activation was to share the brand’s commitment to combating GBV and to encourage media partners to amplify the #NoExcuse campaign across South Africa. “NoExcuse must become a national movement! Statistics reveal that every 63 seconds a woman is abused, meaning nearly every South African knows someone who is either a perpetrator or a victim of GBV. Everyone must be educated and take part in eradicating GBV,” Ndwandwe said.

Launched in 2017, CBL recognized the critical need to create a platform for educating men and the broader South African public about GBV. Ndwandwe also noted that Carling Black Label acknowledges the link between alcohol abuse and gender-based violence, making it their responsibility to be at the forefront of education, awareness, and societal change. The #NoExcuse slogan reinforces the message that there is absolutely no justification for GBV, regardless of the circumstances.

Carling Black Label believes that men have a crucial role to play in changing this narrative. The campaign advocates for men to embrace positive masculinity, understand what it means to be a man of value, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

This year, the campaign has teamed up with prominent soccer stars, urging soccer fans to unite and show that champions on the field can also become champions for change. Football enthusiasts and consumers are invited to enroll in the Champions for Change course at NoExcuseSA.com, a program designed to inspire men to challenge harmful behaviors, become agents of positive change, and embody values of respect and equality. The course is available both online and through in-person training sessions.

Bernard Parker, newly appointed head coach of TS Galaxy, expressed his support for the campaign, saying, “This is an incredibly important campaign. I have been following it and actively involved for a long time. We aim to develop society and inspire change. As prominent figures in South Africa, we want to lead by example so the youth are motivated to grow into individuals of virtue and strong moral character. We must invest in developing the person himself!”

Carling Black Label calls on soccer fans and South Africans from all walks of life to join the #NoExcuse movement and take a firm stand against violence. Through this initiative, it is now easier than ever to report cases, seek guidance, and access real-time assistance via online platforms and WhatsApp.

Looking ahead, the campaign is set to introduce a groundbreaking program within the football community in January 2025, further strengthening the #NoExcuse movement’s reach and impact. This initiative will continue to spread the crucial message that there is no excuse for abuse.

The time for change is now. The responsibility is in your hands.