The International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, was marked by a vibrant celebration at Midrand High School on October 17.

This year’s theme is The Girl I Am. The Change I Lead inspired an event hosted by Unilever’s Dove brand in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

Learners from neighbouring schools, including Umqhele Comprehensive, Ivory Park High, Kaalfontein High, Nokuthula Special School, and Tsosoloso Ya Afrika Secondary, joined in the celebration.

Read more: Literacy Leap warns donors of scammers soliciting money in their name

The day highlighted the importance of recognising girls for their strength, character, and achievements beyond appearance. Likho Bottoman, the director of the DBE’s social cohesion and equity directorate, opened the event with a call to action.

“Together with our partners, we are challenging everyone to go beyond ‘pretty’ and celebrate girls for who they truly are, their personalities, values, and achievements,” said Bottoman. “Let’s give girls more reasons to be confident and reclaim their power by changing the compliment.”

Bottoman also spoke about the need to address issues such as teenage pregnancy and bullying, while reaffirming the department’s commitment to supporting both girls and boys in education. “We are not leaving the boy child behind,” he said.

“We recently commemorated the International Day of the Boy Child for the first time, recognising the vulnerabilities all young people face. Our approach remains balanced and inclusive.”

He also reaffirmed the department’s balanced approach to youth empowerment, adding that the DBE has declared October as the Month of the Girl Child to extend the momentum of awareness and education.

Chuene Ramphele, DBSA group executive, commended the collaboration, noting that this year’s theme reminds everyone that girls are leaders capable of influencing change. “Regardless of age, girls are leaders who can succeed beyond limits,” Ramphele said.

A key highlight of the day was the launch of the #ChangeTheCompliment campaign, part of the Dove Self-Esteem Project, which encourages people to rethink how they speak to and about girls.

Also read: Reddam House drama stars take centre stage locally and abroad

The global initiative has already reached more than 137m young people in 153 countries, promoting body confidence and self-esteem education. Pavla Sessions, Unilever personal care and beauty digital lead, said the campaign aimed to empower girls to define beauty on their own terms.

In a heartfelt virtual address, Deputy Minister of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, reminded attendees of the importance of collective responsibility.

“Wherever a girl stands tall and unafraid, wherever she learns freely and dreams boldly, the soul of our democracy breathes easier,” she said.

The event concluded with a shared commitment from educators, parents, and partners to continue creating environments where every girl child feels valued, confident, and ready to lead change in her community and beyond.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!