Kirstenhof runner to raise funds for human trafficking survivors

Damian Jutzi, of Kirstenhof, is running the Slave Route Challenge half marathon on Sunday June 1 in support of Not I But We, a social enterprise that provides skills training and employment for human trafficking and gender-based violence survivors.

The Slave Route Challenge, now in its 13th year, retraces the paths of those who were once enslaved, passing several heritage landmarks of cultural and historical significance, including the Castle of Good Hope, District Six, Bo-Kaap, and the Company’s Garden.

“We should never forget what an important role slaves played throughout the history of South Africa,” says the Swiss expat, who is running in honour of the people who built Cape Town.

“Yet, modern slavery still exists, so I want to use the opportunity to raise $200 for each kilometre for "Not I But We.” The 21.1 km fundraiser hopes to raise R75 000 in total.

“South Africa is considered a recruitment, transit, and destination country for victims of human trafficking. Moreover, access to job opportunities for survivors of trafficking is very limited in Cape Town,” says Mr Jutzi, who works as a human resources and business development manager with his wife, Sabine Jutzi, who is a social worker at Not I But We.

“People are often deeply moved by the issue of modern-day slavery, and many are shocked to learn that human trafficking still exists,” he adds. “The topic has gained renewed attention, particularly following the Joshlin Smith case.”

Mr Jutzi initially planned to create a social media post to raise awareness, but as the race aligned so closely with his values and work, he decided to run and raise funds as well. “I was really touched by the story behind the Slave Route Challenge and realised it's a perfect fit for what our organisation is doing.”

Not I But We was founded in 2023 by Madison Barefield, a social entrepreneur with more than a decade of experience in the non-profit sector. The American expat first came to South Africa to study and, while volunteering at S-Cape—a safehouse for survivors of human trafficking—gained first-hand experience of the gap between care and long-term stability. “Despite receiving excellent support, many women return home without employment prospects,” she says.

“The barriers to work are immense for many survivors. Without access to stable, fair-wage employment, the risk of re-exploitation is very high. Many women we work with are single mothers, and without a way to support themselves and their children, they often find themselves vulnerable again. Jobs change lives, and the most meaningful impact Not I But We can make is to create meaningful work for women in a healing centered, supportive environment.”

The social enterprise provides an eight-week training for its partners at S-cape and the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children and currently employs seven women and four trainees.

“We’re fortunate to have incredible partners who enable us to do our work. These organisations offer essential services we aren't equipped to provide. It truly takes a village, and we’re grateful to collaborate with like-minded groups who help us care for the whole person.”

Ms Barefield, who has similarly raised R12 000 through cycling the Cape Town Cycle Tour last year, says the funds raised help the social enterprise provide the skills training for free. 

“They also help us cover the cost of setting up a new employee with the necessary tools needed, like a sewing machine. We also love celebrations so a little bit may go towards celebrating birthdays, and other huge milestones.”

“We are so grateful for Damian’s commitment to Not I But We. It’s really meaningful to have good men committed to seeing justice and opportunities for women. We hear a lot about how men are the problem and Damian is helping rewrite that narrative for the women at Not I But We.” 

Visit the Not I But We website at https://notibutwe.com/ or email hello@notibutwe.com for more information.