The A Million Girls Foundation and Youth Alive Sports Project’s I am a powerhouse event in Diepsloot shows girls their true power
From menstrual health to mental wellness, topics of particular meaning to the young girls were discussed, showing how organisations can join forces to change the game for young women in sports.
In the heart of Diepsloot, a high-risk crime area in South Africa, a thoughtful collaboration is changing the lives of young women.
Quincy Malope, from the A Million Girls Foundation, joined forces with Precious Hlaka, a local champion from Youth Alive Sports Project, to create a holistic support system for girls in sports.
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“Precious was recommended to us as someone who shared our vision,” said Malope.
“Her foundation aligned perfectly with our education and holistic wellness pillars, focusing on keeping girls in school and sports.”
The partnership began with menstrual cup training and distribution to 40 girls from three netball teams. This initiative sparked a larger movement, culminating in the I am a powerhouse event which they hosted in Diepsloot.
“We wanted to raise awareness about the barriers girls face in staying in school and sports. We envisioned showing them they’re not alone in their dreams, and providing menstrual cups to ensure they never miss practice or games due to their cycle.
“This year, we aimed to provide a more holistic experience. The girls showcased their soccer skills and engaged in empowering activities throughout the day, including interactive stations and a soccer clinic.”
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The I am a powerhouse event saw four incredible women take the stage to share their unique stories and expertise. Malope said she loved every single woman who spoke on the panel because they brought their own stories and expertise.
“We had Dr Taheera Hassim, who not only sponsored 120 Princess D menstrual cups through the World Memon Organisation Youth Wing Africa Chapter, but always supports our events by giving accurate information about periods, natural ways to combat period pain, and how to manage periods to better support the girls while they play sport.
“We also had Palesa Morabe, who’s a mental health activist, who shared a bit of her journey struggling through high school, and why being mindful of our trauma is important because it can really sabotage us and set us back. She also facilitated the mental health workshops together with a South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) counsellor throughout the day.”
Mbali Sibindi, a young and dynamic entrepreneur, inspired the girls with her story of success, while award-winning journalist Mpumi Manyisi lifted the girls’ spirits with how she got into sports broadcasting. Her story showed that success in sports extends far beyond the playing field, opening doors to diverse career paths.
“Some of the girls thanked us for teaching them how to wear a bra and giving them donated bras that were either new or in good condition. The fact that they got to leave with something tangible was great. They also loved that the mental health sessions were intimate and that Palesa spoke about issues that were relevant to them, and created a safe space to talk,” concluded Malope.
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