Fighting period poverty head-on
The Capricorn Group and its ChangeMakers demonstrated their commitment to empowering young girls and supporting vulnerable communities by commemorating the United Nations International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on 11 October.This year, employees of the group and its subsidiaries Bank Windhoek and Capricorn Asset Management came together for the “Dignity for Every Girl” initiative, inspired by the theme “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” They collected a record of 2 937 packets of sanitary pads and 181 packs of wipes. This surpasses last year’s totals of 1 048 pads and 95 wipes.
The Capricorn Group, in collaboration with the Imago Dei Welfare and Poverty Relief Association, hosted events at two locations to reach a large number of girls. On Friday, 10 October, the Family of Hope Services in Havana, operated by Foibe Sylvanus, hosted 35 girls for a special event. On Saturday, 11 October, RABO Soup Kitchen at Green Leaves Primary School in Okahandja Park, operated by Ester and Zackary Itodo, hosted another 35 girls.
In total, 70 vulnerable young girls benefitted from this outreach, each receiving a minimum six-month supply of sanitary pads, a dignity bag, a treat bag, and a delicious meal. The programme also included a talk on the basics of menstruation and self-care, led by Dr Alfreda Kloppers, ensuring that girls are equipped with both products and knowledge for their well-being.