Empowerment Through Movement: EU Delegation Staff Join Self-Defence Training for the 16 Days Against GBV

As part of this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the women of the EU Delegation to Zimbabwe took part in a practical and empowering self-defense training session, delivered by Mobility 4 Longevity (M4L) and hosted at the Sport Science Lab (SSL), within The Performance Hub in Harare.

The initiative formed part of the Delegation’s internal activities to mark the campaign and reaffirm the EU's commitment to promoting safety, dignity and equality for all women and girls.

Learning practical skills for real-life situations

The session guided participants through essential self-defense techniques, including:

• how to break free from compromising holds,
• how to manage distance in a conflict,
• how to respond under pressure, and
• how to use awareness, posture, self-confidence and movement to prevent escalation.

For many staff members, the training offered both reassurance and empowerment. It served as a reminder that while systemic solutions are essential, personal safety skills can complement broader efforts to prevent GBV and promote safer communities.

A meaningful — and empowering — experience

While the subject matter was serious, the training itself was energetic, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable. The M4L team created an environment where everyone felt safe, confident, and included — regardless of prior experience.

European Union, 2025

Participants appreciated the trainers’ professionalism, clarity and encouragement, which made even the most challenging techniques feel achievable. The session left many eager to keep practicing what they learned and to carry the spirit of the 16 Days campaign forward in their personal lives.

Keeping the 16 Days message alive

The EU remains firmly committed to ending all forms of gender-based violence — both online and offline — and continues to support national and community efforts through the Team Europe partnership.

Internal activities like this one strengthen our own awareness, resilience, and solidarity. They remind us that empowering women and girls begins in our workplaces, our communities, and in the everyday actions we take to stand against GBV.

About Mobility 4 Longevity (M4L)

M4L’s science-based approach nurtures flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, rhythm, creativity, spatial and body awareness, as well as improved reflexes and reaction time.

Their mission is to accompany, support and inspire active, health-conscious individuals to keep moving, stay motivated and remain accountable to themselves. They help people stay healthy, empowering them to move with confidence, grace, authenticity and joy at every stage of life.

Dan (Founder and Head Coach at M4L) is a Latin American mixed-martial artist and lifelong mover. He is a 1st Dan black belt in WTF Taekwondo, an ISSA-certified personal trainer (ID 5999776), and holds a 2025 CPR/AED certification. A passionate circus and gymnastics practitioner, and a dedicated “family warrior” — proud papa to two very active boys."