Alexandra model Rubina Burnham collects sanitary pads for local learners
Rubina Burnham says her Miss Alexandra title chase is just a stepping stone for the community work she is already doing.
Local model Rubina Burnham, a finalist in this year’s Mr and Miss Alexandra pageant, is preparing to donate more than 200 sanitary pads to learners at two schools in Alexandra.
The initiative, set for the second week of October, forms part of her Start Strong Campaign, run in partnership with Ekukhanyisweni Primary School and other organisations. Her original target was modest. “My goal was 100 sanitary pads to 100 girls at Ekukhanyisweni Primary, which I have already,” she said. With more than 200 pads now raised, she will extend the donation to a second school.
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The pad drive began last year, born of a troubling reality. “What inspired me was the fact that a young girl from as little as Grade 5 would have to miss school classes and not be confident when writing her exams,” Burnham said. “I wanted to make a change, a difference – not only to donate, but to educate girls and guide them through that phase of their life.”
The annual drive has since grown into a short programme. She said various speakers will educate the girls, while representatives from other organisations will offer life tips, guidance and motivation. Boys are part of the day too, addressed separately by male speakers she has invited, so no one is excluded.
Her commitment, she explained, is rooted in love for home. “I genuinely love the creativity, culture, people and diversity of my township, but in between that there are problems that people are facing which sometimes come from things they faced as children. I believe that if I create the change while they are still growing, it can alter a better future for Alexandra.”
The road has not been without obstacles. “The biggest challenge for this pad drive was finding the school to donate to,” she said.
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Looking ahead, Burnham said she plans more school visits and hopes to partner with organisations such as Families South Africa on initiatives that offer young people motivation, mentorship, guidance and support. She sees the pageant crown as a tool rather than a trophy. “I am already a change-maker working to make a lasting impact by developing meaningful relationships. The crown will add a significant platform for me to initiate my plans.”
Those who wish to donate or contribute towards purchasing sanitary pads can contact Burnham at rubinaburnham@gmail.com
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