GirlSpeakUp launches in Elspark to empower young girls with confidence and voice
On 2 August, GirlSpeakUp officially launched in Elspark with a powerful event focused on helping young girls find their voice and self-worth. Founded by Rosaria Cedras, the initiative aims to empower 1,000 girls across South Africa over three years through mentorship and personal growth.
Young girls gathered for the official launch of GirlSpeakUp on 2 August in Elspark.
This is an initiative born of purpose and one woman’s personal journey from silence to self-worth.
The launch event, themed ‘Voice. Value. Victory’, was more than just a celebration; it was a call to action.
ALSO READ: GirlSpeakUP launches in Germiston to help girls find their voice and confidence
Founder Rosaria Cedras took to the stage to share why she started GirlSpeakUp and how she wants her personal experience to help others find their voice.
“I started GirlSpeakUp because I know what it feels like to stay silent when you want to speak, to feel invisible.
“There was an opportunity that could have changed my life, but I missed it because I was too afraid to speak up. I didn’t believe I was good enough,” said Rosaria.
She said when that one opportunity that opened her eyes happened, that was the birth of many opportunities.
“I promised myself, if I can find confidence, I can help other girls find theirs too,” shared Rosaria.
Guest speaker Zanele Njapha, CEO of The UnLearners and a leading voice on transformation, unlearning, and future-fit leadership, known as The UnLearning Lady, encouraged the girls to find their own voices and learn to listen to that voice.
A former teacher turned global keynote speaker and coach, Zanele equipped the girls with the simple tool to always take a moment and evaluate who you are listening to, let go of limiting beliefs, and step boldly into what’s next.
ALSO READ: Jeppe Girls turns 106: A legacy of inspiring young women
The purpose of the initiative, empowering young girls, was clear throughout the day as the girls interacted and participated.
The atmosphere was filled with hope and, for many girls in attendance, a step towards discovering who they are.
GirlSpeakUp plans to reach at least 1 000 girls across South Africa in the next three years.
