Dudu Tsobane

I grew up in the streets of Soweto raised by a single parent (my mother). Growing up was never easy, but I was always determined to make my parents proud and to become someone that would someday inspire the kids in my community. I have always been a big dreamer and a visionary. I’ve always believed I was destined for greatness. I did not have it all as a child - it was a struggle as my mom was unemployed and we had zero income in our household. I used to wear torn school shoes, and when I started getting my period, my mom could not afford to buy me sanitary pads so I used clothes as a substitute so I could go to school and not miss my classes. That made me have low self-confidence as I could not play with my friends and enjoy school on those days, but not even that [experience] could get me to lose my focus, instead it propelled me to dream bigger. I made a vow to myself that I will help as many girls who are underprivileged, so they do not have to experience what I went through as a young girl.

Lerato Solomon

I inspire and empower the voiceless and hopeless by sharing my mental health journey through storytelling, sparking conversations and raising awareness. I encourage those who have a voice to use it. I encourage you to use it for those who no longer have one, and for those still searching for theirs. I encourage you to no longer be ashamed of what you have been through; but be proud that you made it on the other side of victory! Be proud that the things that tried to kill you, you slayed them! Hold your head up high and shine on! Stand tall and raise your voice.

Mental HealthGirlTable AdminMarch 24, 2021South Africa

Sam Gqomo

My focus on women was sparked because I was raised in a matriarchal family and went to a girls’ school. I resonate with this group of people. The impact has not only been a legacy-building initiative for me but has literally changed my life knowing that my organization is leaving young women and girls better off, in making subject choices, choosing alternative careers or starting and growing their own businesses.

Women EmpowermentGirlTable AdminMarch 17, 2020South Africa

Laelo Mahlo

I grew up in the deep rural of Polokwane in Moletjie Makgodu, Ramongwana. Kids in my area were abused day in and day out. I used to encounter a lot of them at school who would be bruised, raped by uncles but told to keep quiet about it.

Children's Rights, Sexual Violence, AbuseGirlTable AdminJanuary 26, 2020South Africa