For many young girls, starting their periods brings enough questions and uncertainties without having to worry whether they can afford basic sanitary products. Yet for some learners in the Stellenbosch area, that was exactly the problem. Some were even missing school because they had no suitable products to manage their periods.
Enter Girl Talk.
An initiative of BecomingKids, an early intervention programme managed by Stellumthombo, an initiative of the Moederkerk, Stellenbosch, Girl Talk set out to help girls navigate this important stage of their lives with greater confidence and dignity.
With sponsorship from Proud Partners, the first event was held at Cloetesville Primary School for 44 girls aged between 11 and 14. Arina Scheepers, the driving force behind BecomingKids, led an educational and motivational session, while volunteer Alta van Zyl added music, dancing and plenty of fun.
Each girl received a hamper worth R220, containing specially designed menstrual underwear and nine washable, reusable pads.
The initiative proved so popular that it was repeated at A.F. Louw Primary School, where another 43 girls participated. This time, Oh So Heavenly joined in, generously donating body creams and sprays.
Two schools. 87 girls. And a little practical assistance that meant far more than the contents of a hamper.
Because growing up should be something to celebrate, not a reason to miss school.