THE Seva Bhakti Foundation (SBF) hosted its third annual Big Sister Workshop at the Isipingo Dharam Mandhir in Lotus Park on August 30, drawing an enthusiastic turnout. The workshop forms part of the Big Sister Initiative, launched six years ago to support young girls as they navigate the transition into womanhood.

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The programme included an opening yoga session by Prishani Naidu and Rekha Singh, as well as a play, dance, and two songs performed by the community’s youth, with songs by Keziah Naidoo. Guest speakers included psychologist Zuleika Shaik, Vanessa Brilall, Krsangie Radhe, Sister Maggie Mottai, author Gaishree Sharon Singh, and Constable Pinky Dlamini from Isipingo police station.

SBF’s co-founder, Mandy Govender, said that through NPO community work, they often meet young girls who struggle to transition into womanhood. Most of them come from less fortunate backgrounds, with little or no support at home.

“For these girls, food is scarce, and essentials such as sanitary pads and toiletries are a luxury they cannot afford. To meet this need, the Big Sister Initiative was created, a way for us, as ‘big sisters’, to walk alongside these young girls. Each big sister care pack includes sanitary pads, roll-ons and lotions, soap and tissues, facecloths and blades, a motivational message from a big sister, and a special big sister book to help guide them through the journey of womanhood,” said Govender.

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Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, the initiative ran successfully, reaching thousands of girls in Isipingo, Chatsworth, Merebank, Tongaat, and Umlazi. She said three years ago the project was expanded to include an annual workshop for girls aged 12 to 18, creating a safe and supportive space to learn, grow, and connect.

The girls were treated to a breakfast and lunch prepared by the SBF mothers, and received their care packs. Rizwaan Cassim, Sashnee Naicker, Laila Raman, Renee Naik, Keziah Naidu, Alisha Naicker, and Sria Sukhu were introduced as Big Sister Initiative’s ambassadors.

One of the most moving parts of the day was when each girl wrote an anonymous note sharing personal challenges. Shaik responded to each, offering guidance and reassurance, while SBF committed to following up with ongoing support for sensitive issues.

“From the bottom of my heart, I am extremely grateful to every single person who assisted in making this programme such a success. Together, we continue to light the path for our younger sisters, one step at a time,” said Govender.

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