What began as a matric visual arts project has become a platform for social change for Michael Mount Waldorf School learner Amaya Fang Da Fonseca.

The Grade 12 learner has been invited to present her artwork and speak about period poverty at the Wellness Collective Summit at Pere House in Midrand during women’s month after a prospective parent discovered her work at the school’s recent open day.

The invitation came as a surprise to Amaya, who said her project was inspired by her own experiences and a desire to challenge the stigma surrounding menstruation.

Read more: Brescia House School learners turn business ideas into reality at August Rush Market Day

“I’ve felt very strongly about this topic for a very long time. It’s really personal to me.”

She explained that, as she researched period poverty in South Africa, she realised many girls are forced to miss school because they cannot afford sanitary products.

“I learned that a lot of young girls in South Africa aren’t able to continue their education in the same way because they don’t have access to sanitary towels. It also made me realise that reality isn’t as perfect as the advertisements make it seem.”

Her artwork aims to spark conversations around menstruation, while challenging shame and misconceptions.

“The whole piece is about breaking the stigma and taking away menstrual shame. People assume periods are something disgusting, but every mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother has experienced them. It’s the only bloodshed that doesn’t stem from violence, yet people still see it as something shameful.”

Amaya said she never expected her matric project to receive recognition beyond the classroom. “There were so many emotions. When I got the message, I immediately phoned my teacher and asked, Is this real? I was just so grateful because the whole purpose of my work is to create awareness.”

Also read: Redhill School physicist shines at global physics competition

She described the opportunity to share the stage with Gauteng Health MEC Faith Mazibuko as an honour. “I don’t think words can describe it. It’s a privilege to share the space with so many empowering women and to know that this will help bring more awareness to menstrual shame.”

With Women’s Day approaching, she believes conversations about period poverty should include everyone.

“We need to educate not only young girls but young boys as well. They shouldn’t grow up thinking periods are disgusting. Every girl should have access to sanitary products so that something biological doesn’t prevent her from getting an education.”

Reflecting on the experience, Amaya said the recognition reaffirmed her belief in the power of art. “It showed me that even one artwork can make a difference. You should create what you’re passionate about because life can surprise you.”

Visual arts teacher Dudley Hibbert said Amaya’s commitment to the subject has been evident throughout her creative journey. “What has always fascinated me about Amaya’s work is how passionate she is about women’s reproductive rights and raising awareness around menstrual shame.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth Amaya Fang Da Fonseca explains her period poverty project on August 5, 2026. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #Johannesburg #SouthAfrica #LocalNews #BreakingNews #cityofjoburg #foryourpage #satiktok_sa #localnews #TikTokNews #tiktoknews #2026 #March #Sandton ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

He added that giving learners the freedom to explore issues they genuinely care about makes art a meaningful tool for social engagement.

“We’re fortunate to allow our students to create work they’re passionate about, whether it’s personal or addresses a societal issue. Projects like this show learners that their voices matter and that art can inspire meaningful change.”

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