Holding Space for Lived Experience: SANPUD’s Media Engagement at the Vusubuntu Launch

People who use drugs, and people with lived and living experience of using drugs, stand at the centre of South Africa’s shift toward a human‑rights‑led and evidence‑based approach to drug policy. Their knowledge comes from daily reality, and their voices carry the clarity that policy discussions often miss. SANPUD’s participation in the Vusubuntu Coalition launch made space for these voices to be heard, supported by team members who prepared carefully, shaped their examples with dignity and showed up to speak as experts in their own lives. The media coverage that followed reflects how people, when given time, support and respect, strengthen national understanding of why decriminalisation matters. ​​

Preparing for the Launch 

In the days before the launch, SANPUD team members sat together and worked through the Vusubuntu Coalition literature, linking its purpose to their daily work with people who use drugs. The preparation focused on how their experience in community spaces connects directly to the coalition’s goals, and how this grounding would help them speak with clarity and dignity during interviews. The team also discussed practical ways to support media attending the launch, making sure journalists had access to accurate information, steady spokespersons and a respectful environment for coverage. ​

Showing Up for Media Engagement 

Charne Roberts prepared the quote used in the media release, shaping a grounded moment that showed how small actions strengthen safer, more respectful public conversations. Her line helped anchor the release in lived experience and set the tone for the coverage that followed. 
Natalie Jacobs set time aside for her interview with Bush Radio, offering a calm, steady explanation of why decriminalisation matters for people who use drugs. Her preparation made the interview clear and accessible to listeners who may not know SANPUD’s work. 
Lucky Ndlovu supported language diversity by giving an interview in Zulu, widening access and ensuring that people could hear the message in a language that carries their daily reality. His contribution strengthened the reach of the launch and supported respectful representation. 
Charity Monareng represented the Vusubuntu Coalition on CapeTalk, offering a factual, grounded explanation of the coalition’s purpose. Angela McBride’s speech during the launch was later quoted in media coverage, showing how leadership and lived experience work together to support public understanding. 

These actions show how preparation, presence and teamwork help SANPUD hold space for lived experience in national conversations about decriminalisation. The work continues, and the voices remain steady. ​