Predestined Girls a community initiative supports young girls from low-income backgrounds with sanitary pads and basic hygiene products. The project also encourages and empowers girls to believe in themselves and stay in school. 

The founder, Helena Shigwedha said the initiative started in 2021. It first began in Omaruru, where a small group of girls received support. Over time, the project grew and expanded to Windhoek, especially in communities such as Havana and Okuryangava. 

“The idea for Predestined Girls came from a heartbreaking experience. The founder met a young girl who lived with her grandmother and had very little support. The girl shared that during her monthly period, she used pieces of a mattress because she could not afford sanitary pads. This caused her to get an infection. This story showed the painful reality many girls face in silence,” she said. 

As more girls shared similar stories, Predestined Girls was born to help meet this urgent need. She stated that, the project is important because many girls cannot afford sanitary pads. Some live in homes where money is limited, while others live with guardians who struggle with neglect or substance abuse. Because of this, girls sometimes use unsafe materials like toilet paper, old cloths, or mattress foam during their periods. This can harm their health, lower their confidence, and cause them to miss school. 

“Predestined Girls works to protect girls’ health, restore their dignity, and make sure no girl misses’ school because of her menstrual cycle,” she said. 

The initiative is supported by a team of dedicated volunteers. 

These volunteers help collect donations, work with communities, and distribute sanitary pads. The project also receives support from kind individuals and well-wishers who donate to the cause. 

Currently, Predestined Girls is running a Back-to-School Sanitary Pad Drive. The goal is to help at least 500 girls. Pads will be distributed at one school in Havana, Windhoek and one school in Omaruru. The organisation hopes to reach more schools and communities throughout the year, depending on available resources. 

“Rural communities are also an important focus. Girls in rural areas often struggle even more to access sanitary products. Planned outreach areas include Omaruru, Otjimbingue, Tsumkwe, and several northern regions of Namibia,” said Shigwedha. 

Beyond providing pads, Predestined Girls aims to inspire young girls. The initiative encourages them to value their education, believe in their potential, and remember that they are worthy and capable of achieving great things. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na