Expectant moms were celebrated and pampered on Mandela Day by Flourish Network in conjunction with Amazi Nail and Beauty Bar.
Flourish is one of the Grow Great programs which is a multi-funder-initiated campaign. Communications specialist at Grow Great, Dudu Mkhize gave an overview of the campaign which she said is aimed at reducing the prevalence of stunting. “Stunting is a condition that arises from prolonged under-nutrition and it affects a child’s physical and brain development.”
Mkize added that this condition was measured by lack of growth in children and in South Africa it occurs in one out of four children. She said Flourish was born to offer universal access to mom and baby classes called Flourish visits. “We use a social franchise model to ensure a small premium is charged by our franchisees in order to cover some of their overheads, but the price is low enough to reach even the most vulnerable in communities,” she said.
According to the organisation’s curriculum developer and master trainer, Ruth Mathys, Flourish seeks to offer classes that support, celebrate and empower mothers through the critical first 1 000 days of a child’s life. “The first 1 000 days of a child’s life, which include conception to age two, are an opportunity to establish a foundation for children’s academic success, health and general well-being, however, it is also a period of vulnerability to stunting.”
Mathys thanked the Flourish hosts and said their light encouraged the moms to shine. “Dear Flourish moms, your light is nurturing your babies to flourish and shine as well. It’s your longing to see children grow great and thrive that inspired you to say yes to joining this journey.”
However, Mathys emphasised that the visits do not replace doctor visits and moms are encouraged to register for and partake in antenatal classes. For more information, people can send Flourish Network a message on their Facebook page.
