Empowering young girls: La’iqah Daames' initiative for sanitary packs

La’iqah Daames,17, Arcadia High School, Bonteheuwel.

In August last year, during women’s month, I launched an initiative to provide sanitary packs to young girls in disadvantaged communities.

I am currently the face of a registered non-profit company (NPC) called The Young and The Hopeful, which was established for me with the support of my parents.

In October, I will be turning 18 and officially taking over as director.

Since the launch of my initiative, I’ve managed to distribute around 100 sanitary packs each month in different communities. Over time, I’ve expanded to include food and stationery drives.

I was recently selected as one of nine finalists for the Mandela Day Heroes Amongst Us initiative at Liberty Promenade, which has given my work great exposure.

I hope to continue growing this work by introducing workshops and launching more drives across the Cape Flats, with the goal of helping to alleviate poverty and unemployment.

For Women’s Month, I am planning a “Snack and Relax” afternoon for elderly women in the community, where I hope to pamper them with entertainment, light snacks, and a bit of care.

More details will be shared soon.

Her mom, Nawhaal Daames, responded: I’m really proud of La’iqah. It’s rare to see young people so committed to making a difference. Even though she doesn’t get much sponsorship, she still finds ways to support her work—using donations and even her own pocket money. She goes above and beyond to help others, and her determination is truly inspiring.

If anyone would like to support my work and help me make a difference, feel free to contact me on 063 430 7691 or email me at info.tyath@gmail.com.