Breaking the silence around menstrual health

In recognition of Menstrual Hygiene Day, Jockey South Africa partnered with the Womandla Foundation to host a menstrual health and hygiene awareness session for pupils at Greenbury Secondary School in Phoenix, recently.

The initiative responded to a reality faced by many young South African girls, where a period can impact far more than physical health.

Period poverty, stigma and limited access to menstrual health education continue to affect confidence, school attendance and overall well-being. As part of its support for the initiative, Jockey South Africa also handed over dignity packs, helping to pair education with practical support.

“Menstrual hygiene is about far more than managing a period. It protects a girl’s health, dignity and ability to learn with confidence. Without access to sanitary products, clean water, private facilities and accurate information, many girls face unnecessary challenges that can affect their well-being, attendance and academic performance. When these barriers are removed, young women are better positioned to focus on their education, participate fully in school life and to reach their potential,” says Zulaka Khan, Womandla Foundation KZN STEAM lead.

The session covered menstrual hygiene management, common misconceptions, healthy habits, period poverty and knowing when to seek support. Pupils were also encouraged to understand menstruation as a normal part of life, rather than something to hide or feel ashamed of.

Khan says practical education is just as important as open conversation. “Adopting hygienic habits can make a significant difference to a girl’s health and confidence during her period. Sanitary towels should be changed every three to four hours, even if they are not full, and hands should be washed before and after changing a pad. Girls should also avoid reusing disposable pads or flushing sanitary products down the toilet. Where bins are not available, carrying a small period kit with spare pads, clean underwear and a sealable packet can help them feel prepared and supported throughout the school day,” said Khan.

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The partnership with Womandla Foundation allowed Jockey South Africa to support a conversation closely connected to dignity, confidence and everyday well-being.

“Confidence starts with feeling comfortable, supported and informed. For Jockey South Africa, this collaboration was about contributing to a conversation that matters. Menstrual health is closely linked to dignity, self-confidence and wellbeing, and every girl deserves access to the knowledge and support that enables her to participate fully in school and in life,” said Nombuso Ncapai, marketing manager at Jockey South Africa.

The initiative also highlighted the role that businesses can play in supporting menstrual health in practical and meaningful ways.

Through access, education and partnerships with community organisations, corporate involvement can help reduce stigma through education  and remove barriers that affect young women’s ability to learn and thrive.

Empowering the next generation of women requires collective action.

From schools and communities to corporates and families, we all have a role to play in curbing period poverty, challenging stigma and helping young women manage menstruation with confidence and dignity.