#18GirlChild urges everyone to remember the message of the Father of our Nation
Layla Mohamed aiming to bring relief to '100 girls in a day'
The effects of global issues trickle down to filter into the lived moments of the individual.
As the country struggles with the most violent week of its recent history, Mandela Day offers an opportunity to revisit the ideals that dragged it from the darkness of despair into the light of hope. Layla Mohamed, through her #18GirlChild non-profit organisation, is hoping to remind South Africans of Madiba’s message of goodwill, grace and shared human dignity.
Unable to be contained within the boundaries of Roodepoort, #18GirlChild has spread its wings from Cape Town to Pretoria bringing relief to school-going females hampered by the lack of adequate female sanitation products. “We have been actively educating and encouraging the girl children in schools and underprivileged communities wherever we can,” said Layla.
For Mandela Day this year, Layla will be championing a ‘100 girls in a day’ initiative. “#18GirlChild has started this new campaign for Nelson Mandela Day which aims to collect, donate to and educate 100 girls in less fortunate communities. “We are in need of donations, either financial or of any sanitary products including sanitary pads, toothbrushes, toothpaste, facecloths, soap, deodorant and anything similar,” stated Layla.
The effects of the health crisis have been an enduring challenge to the young humanitarian’s efforts, forcing her to adjust her fundraising strategy accordingly. “For the time being, all volunteers and contributors are encouraged rather to donate financially because we do not want to put others in situations where they will put their health in danger,” she advised.
Madiba’s message will always resonate and Layla reminded the community, “These may be very difficult times that our country is enduring but we encourage you to stay strong, have faith that things will get better, and think about those who are struggling to keep their heads about water. This is a perfect time to help where you can, if you are fortunate enough to do so.”
