LAWLEY STATION, LENASIA — More than 100 girls from Lawley Station were empowered with critical life skills during a Safe Space for Girls Awareness Campaign held on Valentine’s Day.
The initiative, organised by the Social Employment Fund Safety and Security team, transformed the informal settlement into a hub of learning, care and confidence building for girls aged 12 to18.
The campaign focused on key issues affecting young girls, including self-love, body awareness, personal safety and protection from exploitation, risks that often increase during festive occasions such as Valentine’s Day.
Through educational talks and practical demonstrations, facilitators created an open and supportive environment where participants could engage freely and ask questions. The programme aimed to equip girls with knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing, including preventing teenage pregnancy and illness.
The event saw strong community participation, with local stakeholders stepping in to support the initiative. Donations were received from Anchorville Filling Station, local shops, a neighbourhood internet café, a local scholar transport owner and the Johannesburg Institute of Social Services.
In a show of commitment and ownership, each member of the Safety and Security team also personally contributed R50 towards the success of the campaign.
At the end of the programme, participants received sanitary pads and snacks to support menstrual dignity and overall wellbeing.
With support from Planact and dedicated community partners, the Safe Space for Girls Awareness Campaign demonstrated the power of community-led action in protecting and uplifting vulnerable young girls in Lawley Station.
Planact, a Johannesburg-based non-profit organisation established in 1985, works to empower communities in vulnerable conditions to play an active role in local governance and to strengthen meaningful participation in municipal processes.