Sentella Foundation Code of Conduct
Our Commitment
The Sentella Foundation is dedicated to fostering a community that embodies the spirit of radical inclusion, self-expression, and communal effort. We expect all participants—attendees, volunteers, and organizers—to contribute to a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, both during our events and in associated online spaces.
Scope
This Code of Conduct applies to all Sentella Foundation events, including pre- and post-event activities, online forums, and any interactions under the Foundation’s auspices.
Expected Behaviour
Participants are expected to:
- Respect Others: Treat all individuals with dignity, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, or religion.
- Practice Radical Inclusion: Welcome and respect the stranger; no prerequisites exist for participation in our community.
- Engage in Communal Effort: Collaborate and cooperate to create and maintain a supportive environment.
- Exercise Civic Responsibility: Abide by local laws and communicate community responsibilities to participants.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the environment by cleaning up after oneself and minimizing impact
- Adhere to ALL of Sentella’s principles – Found here
Unacceptable behaviour includes, but is not limited to:
- Harassment: Includes offensive verbal comments, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, unwelcome photography or recording, sustained disruption, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention.
- Non-Consensual Acts: Engaging in any activity without the explicit consent of all parties involved.
- Discrimination: Any form of discrimination based on the attributes listed above.
- Violation of Community Principles: Actions that undermine any of the principles .
Consent
Consent is a cornerstone of our community. It must be:
- Freely Given: Without coercion or pressure.
- Reversible: Can be withdrawn at any time.
- Informed: All parties understand what they are consenting to.
- Enthusiastic: A clear and affirmative agreement.
- Specific: Consent to one act does not imply consent to others.
Always obtain explicit consent before physical contact, taking photographs, or engaging in any activity that affects others. Be aware that individuals under the influence of substances may not be able to give valid consent.
Consequences of unacceptable behaviour:
Unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated; this includes behaviour before, at, or after the event, whether by phone, email, social media, or in face-to-face communication.
Anyone asked to stop unacceptable behaviour is expected to do so immediately: the Sentella Foundation board may take any action they deem appropriate to ensure the safety of the event and its participants. This action may include expulsion from the event without refund and/or removal from volunteer or leadership roles.
Reporting and Enforcement:
If you experience or witness unacceptable behaviour, please report it to:
- HQ: A safe space for immediate support.
- First Aid: For medical assistance.
- Event Committee: For formal reporting and resolution. Email: info@sentella.co.za
Reports will be handled with confidentiality and sensitivity. The Sentella Foundation reserves the right to take appropriate action, including removal from the event without refund and exclusion from future events.
Limitations
While we strive to uphold these standards within our events, the Sentella Foundation does not have authority over external gatherings or the broader community. This Code of Conduct is not a substitute for legal action and does not guarantee the resolution of all issues.
Conclusion
By participating in Sentella Foundation events, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Together, we can create a vibrant, respectful, and inclusive community that reflects our shared values