Self-esteem programme in partnership with the Department of Education launched in Sandton

The Dove Self Esteem Project, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education, was launched in Sandton and will aim to promote healthy self-esteem in young girls across the country.

Dove partnered with leading experts in the fields of psychology, health, and body image to create a programme of evidence-based resources including parenting advice to help young people form healthy friendships and overcome body image issues.

Luc-Olivier Marque, executive vice president of Unilever South Africa said, “We can’t continue with the model of the private sectors which aims to make the rich even richer without taking care of the communities we serve.”

Educational psychologist and Dove Self-Esteem Project partner, Dr Tshepiso Matentjie, said talking to a young person about beauty, confidence and self-esteem could change the way they see themselves for a lifetime.

From learning how to interpret destructive messages in the media, to helping young people navigate toxic friendships at school, the programme provides free educational tools to help young women address the various barriers they face.

Angie Motshekga, the minister of the Department of Basic Education, said the campaign was not only one that her department was happy to be a part of but one that personally resonated with her. She highlighted that through this campaign, other issues relating to alcohol and violence and sexual and reproductive health could be addressed.

“I am excited that we get to have celebrities who will be talking to these young girls about the importance of self-confidence and self-esteem but also about being responsible and understanding where we come from.”

Motshekga also highlighted that the young women who participated in the programme would, in turn, become its ambassadors and encourage a healthy self-esteem within other young women as well.

Sphelele Mjadu, the senior public relations manager for Unilever Beauty and Personal Care for Africa said young people faced so many challenges and it was important to give them attention and help them realise their potential.

There are a variety of resources available for parents, teachers, individuals and professionals to use to assist young learners with low body confidence.

For more information, click here.

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