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Brotherhood Social Club

"Dress like a gentleman, behave like a gentleman"

Brotherhood Social Club , "Dress like a gentleman, behave like a gentleman", is about self-respect and identity. The Club fights against crime in their community in a very original -and highly fashionable- way. South Africa counts more than 50 murders a day. In 2019, the high number of gender-based violence was declared a national crisis. In 2024 this number rose to 62 murders per day.   Dressed up in exquisite fashion outfits, referring to the days when respect was a high value amongst black South Africans, the members of the Brotherhood Social Club parade around their townships to beat back the attitude of crime and to reintroduce good manners.   In an original and positive way, they approach their brothers and sisters demonstrating empathy and fellowship. Getting noticed through their exquisite clothing style and positive energy is part of the strategy of the Club: people get interested to meet and listen to them. Respect and acceptance in the community is key to connect later on with individuals who went on the wrong path or live in extreme poverty.  Since all members live in townships they can tackle the problems from within with a deep understanding of the situation.   The idea of the group is born out of the desire to go back to the style and (self-)respect black people had before 1994. The dress style refers to the Pantsula style. This is a fashion and dance style that originated during the times of apartheid. During the community walks often the members get attention through their dancing style and positive energy.   The club is a mix of young and old members. While the older men get more respect, they also need to identify with the younger generation. The club has a facebook page where they put photos and videos and a youtube channel. Lots of youngsters take them as role models.   The Club currently has more than 100 members divided in 7 branches across South Africa. They also plan to expand to Botswana. Together with the use of social media, their physical presence in the community makes them real 'influencers' in today’s South Africa.

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National Geographic Traveler magazine

Palais des Congrès, Visa pour L'image Coup de Coeur ANI, Perpignan, France

One of the Brotherhood members dances pantsula

style in the township Weltevreden, South Africa

Hamburg Portfolio Review, Germany

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Me and Khosa ladies during a gathering

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Me and Izzy the president of Brotherhood Social Club. Aka. Izzy and Isa 

National Geographic NL, National Geographic USA, Stern magazine, Geographical Magazine, MO magazine
National Geographic Traveler , Hamburg Portfolio Review,  Barrobjectif in France, Coup de Coeur by ANI at Palais des Congrès, Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, France , William Klein MA-g award in the Museum of Avant-Garde, Switzerland ​

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