Nelson Mandela advocated for equal education and gender equality, believing that true freedom hinged on the emancipation of women from all forms of oppression. Sanctuary Mandela is honouring their namesake’s legacy by extending the impact of its 67 Minutes initiative on July 18th into Women’s Month and beyond.
The boutique hotel, Nelson Mandela’s former home, has partnered with the Imbumba Foundation on this initiative. Specifically, the hotel supports the Foundation’s Trek4Mandela expedition, raising funds and awareness for the Caring4Girls program.
“This Women’s Month, we’re sponsoring 67 girls with essential menstrual products for an entire year to fight period poverty,” says Vincent Monyake, General Manager of Sanctuary Mandela. “By supporting these young women, we commit to Mr. Mandela’s legacy of equality and opportunity. He believed education is key to breaking poverty cycles that unfortunately still limit the potential of so many young African girls and prevent them from achieving their dreams.”
Period poverty, the inability to afford menstrual products, often stems from broader economic inequality. It leads to school absenteeism, disrupting girls’ academic progress and perpetuating gender inequality. The stigma surrounding menstruation further isolates those affected, making it harder for them to seek help or advocate for their needs, and also reinforces gender oppression, as women and girls face discrimination based on their biological functions. The resulting feelings of shame and exclusion perpetuate a cycle of silence and lack of support for menstrual health issues.
“Tata Madiba’s legacy of compassion, empowerment, and dignity for all guides Sanctuary Mandela’s efforts to address this issue. Every packet of menstrual pads helps a young girl stay in school and feel confident about pursuing her dreams,” says Monyake.
The boutique hotel collected sanitary pads throughout July, inviting guests to contribute to the drive and matching their donations, extending the spirit of Nelson Mandela Day into Women’s Month. The collected pads will be distributed throughout August, supporting young girls’ education, dignity, and well-being.
Nelson Mandela wrote in Long Walk to Freedom that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. He believed it could transform lives, allowing anyone to achieve their dreams. “Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor.”
Sina Moyane, Trek4Mandela Program Manager, expressed gratitude for Sanctuary Mandela’s partnership with the Imbumba Foundation. “We share a common goal: ending period poverty. Our Caring4Girls initiative provides sanitary pads and menstrual hygiene education to keep girls in school. Our goal is simple: ensure no girl misses school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene support.”
