New York-based accounting and advisory firm Makosi marked Mandela Day (July 18) by supporting Dis-Chem’s Million Comforts Campaign, a sanitary pad drive aimed at helping girls across South Africa access essential menstrual hygiene products and remain in school.

This initiative was done under Makosi Ignite, the company’s global corporate social impact initiative focused on driving long-term, sustainable change in underserved communities through four key pillars: education, health, social development, and the environment.

According to the Dis-Chem Million Comforts Campaign, teenage girls can miss up to 20% of their schooling because they do not have access to sanitary pads. This can affect not only their academic performance but also their confidence, participation in school activities and overall wellbeing.

Makosi said education is the first pillar of its Ignite programme, with partnerships and community initiatives designed to create opportunities for young people by removing barriers to learning.

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“Education opens doors, but many young girls face challenges that should never stand in the way of learning,” said Makosi CFO and chief people officer Tanya Grota.

“A packet of sanitary pads may seem small, but it can make a real difference to a girl trying to stay in school, focus on her studies, and participate fully in everyday life. Supporting initiatives like Million  Comforts is one way we can help remove barriers and create opportunities.”

The campaign also highlighted the link between education and health, with access to menstrual hygiene products helping girls stay engaged in their schooling while supporting their dignity and wellbeing.

The company encouraged South Africans to support the Dis-Chem Million Comforts Campaign, saying every donation helps remove a barrier preventing many young girls from reaching their full potential.

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