Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Online Reporter
CLOSE to 1000 girl children from Msiteli High school in Mpopoma on Wednesday received a boost of hygiene packs meant to address issues related to period poverty.
The students received a hygiene pack donated by Girl Talk ZW which contained bathing soap, two packs of sanitary pads, a toothbrush, toothpaste, biscuits and painkillers.
The donation marked the fifth anniversary of the girl empowerment organisation that is championing the health rights of young girls through the eradication of period poverty.
Founder and director of Girl Talk, Ms Anitta Neshiri said they intend to continue ending period poverty which is a global issue affecting those who do not have access to safe, hygienic menstrual products.
“For five years, we have been more than just an organisation. We are a safe space, a voice, a movement reminding every girl that her story matters, her voice is powerful and her dreams are valid.
“There are three things that continue to challenge us as girls, which are self-esteem, financial independence and the silent pain of peer pressure,” said Ms Neshiri.
She encouraged the young girls to reclaim their worth as low self-esteem has stolen dreams and silenced voices.
“Every day, many girls wake up comparing themselves to others — wishing to be lighter, thinner, richer, smarter, or more popular. We scroll through social media and start believing that we are not enough.
“I want to remind every girl in this room today — you are enough. You are worthy. You are beautiful just as you are. We are learning to love our scars, our curves, our shades, our hair, our voices — everything that makes us uniquely us,” said Ms Neshiri.
Ms Neshiri said there is need to instil financial independence among girls and women to claim their power and freedom.
“We cannot talk about empowerment without talking about money. Being financially independent as a young woman is not just about having income — it’s about having options. It’s about being able to make choices from a place of strength, not survival.
“When a girl learns a skill, starts a small business, saves her money or studies hard to secure her future — she’s not just building wealth, she’s building freedom. And freedom, my sisters, is priceless,” she said.
She said it is high time that the silence is broken on peer pressure, which has led to unbearable pain like suicide.
“Sadly, too many young people today are losing the battle to silent pain. Peer pressure, bullying, and unrealistic expectations are pushing many to the edge. Some are smiling outside, but dying inside. And that is why we must create spaces — like this one — where girls can speak up, cry, and be heard without judgment.
“To any girl here who feels lost or tired — please know that your life matters. Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s highlight reel. You are still becoming. And there is nothing weak about asking for help. Real strength is saying, “I’m not okay,” and choosing to live another day. Let’s be the generation that checks on each other, uplifts each other, and reminds one another that we are never alone,” said Ms Neshiri.
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