19/05/2026
JCDecaux South Africa was proud to attend the premiere of “What About The Boys 2” last week, an important film driven by an initiative that fosters meaningful conversations around youth development, mental health, accountability, and positive social change in South Africa.
Our country continues to face complex social challenges, including gender-based violence, youth unemployment, mental health struggles, substance abuse, and a growing sense of disconnect among young people. These realities underscore the urgent need for more proactive dialogue around identity, masculinity, emotional well-being, and shared social responsibility.
Under the theme Do Better Together, the initiative shifts the focus from reacting to violence after it occurs to addressing the social norms and behaviours that shape young people long before harm takes place. Building on the success of the first instalment, “What About The Boys 2” encourages collaboration, empathy, and shared responsibility between young men and young women. A key message throughout the day was the call for both individual and collective responsibility in driving societal change. Challenging each of us to help create environments where boys feel safe to be themselves, while recognising the responsibility they hold towards others.
As a sector stakeholder, JCDecaux South Africa believes media can influence culture, shape narratives, and amplify conversations that matter. We support initiatives that create long-term impact and contribute to healthier communities, which aligns with our commitment to responsible media and meaningful social engagement. We are proud to stand alongside Primestars, government, educators, civil society, community leaders, and young South Africans who continue to drive positive change through platforms such as “What About The Boys”.
The conversation continues, and together, we can do better.
