Partnering with Kotex® and Dr. Nosipho Mhlanga, Natasha aims to fight period poverty and promote menstrual health in schools.
In partnership with the Department of Basic Education, health advocate Dr. Nosipho Danielle Mhlanga, and former Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert, Kotex® has kicked off its second annual Stay YOUnique School Programme. This impactful initiative aims to address period poverty by providing critical support to young girls across South Africa.
Building on last year’s success, Kotex® donated premium sanitary products to 400 schools, reaching over 120,000 grade 4 to 7 learners throughout Gauteng. The overwhelming response showed just how urgent the need is for accessible menstrual hygiene products in schools across the country.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), only 31% of schools globally have menstrual waste bins in girls’ toilets. In South Africa, many girls face even greater challenges, with up to seven million unable to afford sanitary pads.
This year, the Stay YOUnique Programme returns with a renewed commitment. Dr. Nosipho Mhlanga visited Norwood Primary School in Johannesburg to educate over 300 young girls about menstrual hygiene, dispelling myths, and breaking stigmas. She was joined by Natasha Joubert, who helped inspire and empower attendees.
“The Stay YOUnique Programme was created to ensure that no girl’s education is hindered due to a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products,” said Caitlin Meredith, Marketing Manager at Kotex®. “We made a significant impact last year, but there’s more to be done. With the continued support of our partners, we’re committed to creating lasting change.”
Kotex®’s mission goes beyond providing sanitary products. By educating girls about menstrual health and offering essential resources, the Stay YOUnique Programme fosters empowerment, self-esteem, and success for the next generation.
Dr. Mhlanga added, “Period poverty is a human rights issue. Every girl deserves health, equality, and dignity. Through our collective efforts, we can make a difference.”
The Stay YOUnique School Programme pad drive is part of Kotex®’s long-term commitment to promoting menstrual health and hygiene in communities across Gauteng and beyond. By uniting parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, Kotex® hopes to create an open dialogue about period poverty and its solutions.
Meredith concluded, “Together, we’re building a world where menstruation is never a barrier to progress.”