‘Pad A Girl’ turns music into a movement
DJ Moenas' simple idea has grown into a powerful community movement, using her music career and collective action to restore dignity and keep young girls in school.
In many communities across South Africa, access to basic sanitary products remains a challenge that quietly disrupts the lives of young girls.
Speaking to Rekord, Eersterust DJ Moenas said this reality became impossible for her to ignore, and ultimately sparked the birth of a meaningful initiative known as Pad A Girl.
Moenas said the inspiration behind the project is deeply personal.
Growing up in Eersterust, she said she witnessed firsthand how many learners miss school or experience shame during their menstrual cycles simply because they lack access to sanitary pads.
“What may seem like a small necessity quickly reveals itself as a significant barrier to education, confidence, and dignity. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the girls when we deliver the donations, and knowing that I am helping restore dignity and confidence, makes every effort worthwhile,” said Moenas.
Determined to make a difference, she said she decided to transform her existing platform as a DJ into a platform to make a difference.
She transformed her events that once required an entrance fee to events where guests are encouraged to bring sanitary pad donations as a form of entrance fee.
“This simple but impactful shift has allowed entertainment to meet purpose, bringing people together not just to enjoy music, but to uplift their community,” said Moenas.
She mentioned that the journey has not been smooth and highlighted inconsistency as her biggest challenge.
She said as a community-driven initiative, Pad A Girl relies heavily on public participation, and donations can fluctuate from year to year.
“At times, there are not enough sanitary products to meet the growing demand from local schools. Financial constraints also play a role, with costs such as transport, packaging, and co-ordination often coming directly from my own pocket. Securing sponsorships remains a hurdle, especially for a grassroots initiative still building its reach,” she added.
Moenas said that despite the challenges, the mission remains clear and deeply rooted in purpose.
She said at its core, Pad A Girl is about far more than donations; it is about restoring dignity, building confidence, and ensuring that young girls can attend school without fear or embarrassment.
“A single pack of sanitary pads can change the trajectory of a child’s day, week or even future,” said Moenas.
She mentioned that the initiative carries a message that extends beyond one neighbourhood.
“Anyone can make a difference, through donating, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. Every action contributes to a larger movement of care and change,” she stated.
Moenas said the vision for Pad A Girl is not only to continue supporting schools in Eersterust, but also to inspire others to take similar steps in their own communities.
By breaking the stigma around menstruation and addressing period poverty head-on, initiatives like this are helping to create a future where no girl is left behind.
“Sometimes, real change begins with something as simple and as powerful as a single act of giving,” she concluded.
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