A Limpopo Teen Bohlale Mphahlele Built a Secret Device to Fight GBV

In a powerful response to South Africa’s growing crisis of gender based v!olence, a 16 year old girl from Limpopo has stepped forward with an invention that could change everything.

Bohlale Mphahlele, a student at SJ van der Merwe Technical High School, has created a discreet wearable device called the Alerting Earpiece.

At first glance, it looks like a simple fashion accessory. But hidden inside is powerful technology designed to protect women and children from abus3 and human trafficking.

This earpiece works by pressing a tiny button that instantly takes a photo of the attacker, then sends a live location alert to trusted contacts and emergency services.

The device not only helps victims get help quickly, but also provides evidence that can be used in court.

In a country where over 120 000 cases of v!olence against women and children are reported every year, Mphahlele’s innovation couldn’t be more timely.

Her invention earned her a bronze medal at the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, with judges praising her for addressing one of South Africa’s most urgent social issues through technology.

Support is already growing. Limpopo Education MEC Polly Boshielo called her a role model and urged businesses and government leaders to help her develop the device into a market ready product.

Mphahlele is now calling for partnerships, funding, and technical support to bring her vision to life. She wants the Alerting Earpiece in the hands of every person who needs protection.