Tarryn Lokotsch

Tarryn Lokotsch is an avid marathon runner, on a training run she experienced Gender Based Violence first-hand. This experience was her introduction to GRIP, the Greater Rape Intervention Program. GRIP supports GBV survivors by providing counselling and functioning as a bridge between hospital, police and legal services. Through GRIP Tarryn learned just how much support GBV survivors needed and just how tirelessly NPOs work to provide a high level of care.

Rather than letting her trauma define her, Tarryn decided to use it as fuel in what would become a passionate crusade to better the lives of GBV Survivors in the Mpumalanga province. Leaving behind a successful career in corporate finance, Tarryn went on to become part of the GRIP organisation. Here, she works to ensure that the organisation, and the women it supports, thrive.

Tarryn’s impact at GRIP is felt at all levels of the organisation. She relentlessly pursues funding to keep GRIP’s care centres and shelters open. Though her finance acumen helps her in the boardroom, her heart truly lies in implementing lasting change in the lives of the women and children who seek assistance at GRIP’s care shelters.

Tarryn believes that breaking the cycle of GBV starts with ensuring that women are self-sufficient and can support themselves financially. To this end, she assists in coaching and upskilling women to start small businesses and grow their own food.

Turning from GBV survivor to GBV Warrior, Tarryn uses her first-hand knowledge of the complexities that women face after surviving GBV, to make navigating the legal and care system easier, and the rehabilitation process more impactful.

Expect to see her on the road training for next Comrades.