In August 2025, Clowns Without Borders South Africa (CWBSA) participated in an Institute for Security Studies (ISS) webinar titled Using the Power of Technology to Prevent Violence Against Children. The session brought together leading organisations developing digital solutions that strengthen families, support parents, and reduce violence against children in low-resource settings.
Representing CWBSA, Anna Booij, Head of Content Solutions, shared insights on how the organisation and its partners are adapting and scaling evidence-based parenting programmes through digital innovation. Her presentation highlighted lessons from the ParentApp initiative – a mobile application co-developed with Oxford University, Parenting for Lifelong Health and global partners to support caregivers through accessible, low-cost parenting content.
Anna’s contribution focused on how CWBSA’s work connects local co-design and content adaptation with global research and implementation. She discussed recent developments in online safety education, male engagement, support for adolescent parents, and mental health integration, emphasising that technology is most effective when rooted in community collaboration and responsive to local realities.
CWBSA extends its appreciation to ISS Africa and its partners for creating such a meaningful platform for collaboration and shared learning. The dialogue highlighted the growing potential of technology to strengthen prevention efforts and inspire new partnerships dedicated to keeping children safe from violence.
Read more on the webinar highlights:
Using the Power of Technology to Prevent Violence Against Children (ISS Africa)