Our focus is squarely on social responsibility this month as we pay tribute to the spirit of Mandela Day and take action to inspire change in our communities. For us at Rennies BCD Travel, which is made possible through our work with Dignity Projects through the Modern Community Foundation that makes reusable sanitary towels for young ladies living in underprivileged areas.

Where there is a lack of information, stigmas persist around menstruation and for four million young ladies in South Africa, the prevailing ignorance in impoverished peri urban areas means that they are subjected to ridicule and condemnation from their communities. In addition to that they suffer from the humiliation and discomfort that a lack of resources, like running water and ablution facilities, and access to affordable sanitary products causes. This marginalisation negatively impacts girls’ self-esteem, mental health, and education, further exacerbating the problem.

Sadly, according to UNICEF, this results in one in ten schoolgirls in Africa missing school during their period or resorting to using less absorbent materials like bark, rags, or newspaper. Research confirms that poor menstrual health management has a direct and negative impact on a girl’s education. The lack of access to sanitary wear and sanitation facilities can affect a girl’s attendance at school by 25% per year, or one week every month. These gaps in school attendance affect their performance and set them back in their careers, leaving them trapped in the poverty cycle. There are many self-reinforcing disadvantages that make it virtually impossible for individuals to break the cycle and period poverty is at the top end of the curve for women and girls.

Recognising the urgency of addressing period poverty, Rennies BCD Travel is proud to contribute to efforts aimed at tackling this issue. Our work with Dignity Projects and the Modern Community Foundation involves not only providing reusable sanitary towels but also undertaking an awareness campaign to educate young women about menstrual health. Our aim is to empower these girls, instilling in them the knowledge they need to take care of their health while simultaneously chipping away at the stigma associated with menstruation.

But our commitment doesn’t stop there. We believe in the ripple effect of positive change. By helping young women stay in school and continue their education without interruption, we’re helping to break the vicious cycle of poverty. When a girl is given the opportunity to fully participate in her education, she can develop the skills and knowledge needed to build a better future for herself and her community. We understand that by tackling period poverty, we’re not just addressing a health issue; we’re investing in the potential of these young women and paving the way for them to become future leaders in their communities. It’s a fitting tribute to Nelson Mandela, who understood so well the transformative power of education and the fundamental right to dignity.