H&M South Africa has committed R1 million to expand youth empowerment and gender-based violence prevention programmes supporting learners across multiple provinces.
H&M South Africa has announced a R1 million donation to non-profit organisation Star for Life, strengthening efforts to empower young people and promote gender equality across South Africa.
The funding builds on an R800,000 contribution made in 2025 and will support programmes designed to equip young people with leadership skills, confidence and the tools needed to build positive futures.
A key focus of the partnership is the continued support of Star for Life’s Daughters of Africa Girls Clubs, which operate at schools in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The programme will now also expand into the Western Cape with the introduction of a Girls Club at Wesbank Secondary School in Malmesbury.
In a significant development, the partnership will also establish a Boys Club at Wesbank Secondary School. The initiative aims to create a safe space where boys can engage in conversations around self-esteem, self-leadership, wellbeing, gender equality and violence prevention.
Registered social workers facilitate both the Girls and Boys Club programmes, helping learners challenge harmful social norms, develop entrepreneurial and decision-making skills, and build healthy attitudes and behaviours.
The donation will also continue supporting the work of Star for Life’s Gender-Based Violence Champion, Londiwe Nyawo, who leads awareness campaigns, survivor support programmes, advocacy initiatives and violence prevention activities.
H&M South Africa Acting Country Manager Keroshan Naidoo said investing in young people is essential for creating sustainable social change.
The partnership forms part of H&M South Africa’s “A Bag for Change” initiative, through which 50% of shopping bag proceeds are donated to organisations driving positive impact in communities.
Star for Life Executive Director Precious Dlamini said the partnership demonstrates the important role collaboration between business and civil society can play in helping young people realise their potential and contribute to stronger, safer and more inclusive communities.
