Our Background

Sexual abuse in any form (rape, molestation, incest, human trafficking) injures the victim’s/survivor’s emotions, pride and relationships with others. These experiences harm the victims/survivors physically, psychologically and mentally, violating the innermost self, leaving them feeling untidy.

Many people do not regard it appropriate, and find it difficult to discuss sexual matters because they regard sexuality as private and personal subject which forces victims/survivors not to want to come forward for help because they feel too embarrassed to discuss their traumatic sexual experiences.

Irrespective of the age, gender, status and the nature of sexual abuse, the resulting trauma is often unbearable, if untreated the effects may last a lifetime. The fear of not being believed/trusted, ridiculed gossiped about and labelled further silences the victim/survivor. For many, pain is kept inside, in a desperate bid to keep their abuse hidden and private, which therefore generates further psychological tension.

ThyREST helpers assist victims/survivors to deal with their pain, thereby hastening the process of healing and recovery.

Meet the Founder

Nobesuthu Javu, widely known as Nobza, a Founder of Ekuphumleni Restoration Home aka Thy Rest in Seshego, Polokwane as a survivor of rape herself, she took a decision to convert her house to a safe home serving young women from all socio-economic backgrounds, who have been victims of sexual abuse, human trafficking and prostitution who want out.

A UNISA Alumni and a final year Psychology student.  She is a member of Limpopo Task Team on Trafficking In Persons, a provincial team member for Stop Trafficking Of People (STOP). Nobza is also affiliated with Coalition against Sexual Exploitation in South Africa.

Thy Rest accommodates eight (8) women, providing outpatient services to 186 women in prostitution within Polokwane. The main aim is to make awareness on the realities of human trafficking to schools and communities and to combat sexual exploitation and prostitution in our communities.

Nobesuthu “Nobza” Javu
Founder