A triumph in the fight against period poverty

The Idle Drive 2 Unite event, hosted by Blessing Lives NPO, in collaboration with idle Auto Expo, marked a significant milestone in their mission to combat period poverty and raise awareness about menstrual hygiene.

This year’s event exceeded all expectations and brought our community together with an inspiring display of unity and compassion.

Read more: Tiamara is on a mission to end period poverty

“This event was not just about collecting sanitary pads, it was about breaking the silence around menstrual hygiene and showing young girls that they are supported and valued. The overwhelming support we received is a testament to the power of community and the importance of this cause,” said 16-year-old Ambassador Tiamara Andrew.

The JMPD escorted a convoy of over 200 vehicles from Ferndale on Republic, then onto the national highway around the city of Johannesburg, before arriving at the Montecasino Events Area. The convoy, comprising of custom cars, supercars, bikes, and 4x4s, created much-needed awareness of the cause.

The event at Montecasino was memorable and educational, featuring keynote speeches from prominent figures such as Director of JMPD Angela Mokasi, Programme Manager for the Department of Education Dululu Hlatshaneni, and gynecologist Eularnia Bok-McMinn. They emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene and the urgent need to end period poverty.

“The initial goal was to collect 12,000 packs of sanitary pads, but the drive surpassed expectations and collected over 22,000. This incredible achievement ensures that many school girls in Alexandra will have a consistent one-year supply, allowing them to attend school regularly and with dignity,” Andrews said.

Also read: Tiamara puts words to action through drive

Underprivileged learners at the event were also treated to meals provided by Col’cacchio’s Montecasino and beverages provided Coca-Cola ZA, while taking part in engaging activities and witnessing an impressive display of vehicles, that captivated both the public and the female learners.

Vehicle owners and the public contributed significantly to the collection of sanitary pads, demonstrating widespread community involvement.

The success of the event was also due to the generous support of sponsors and partners including JMPD, the Department of Education, idle Auto Expo, Max Recruitment, EA Pharma, Ferndale on Republic, Pandae Group, Joey Steel and Supplies, The 357, Vee’s Autopipes, Air BFT and the Aqua Darshan Foundation.

The Idle Drive 2 Unite event emphasises how collaborative efforts can create meaningful change. As the event concluded, the sense of accomplishment was applaudable, and the hope for a brighter, more supportive future for young girls was ignited.

Related article: Blessing Lives lives up to its name