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As a WEPS signatory, we leverage the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) as our primary framework for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace, and community. Our efforts align with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The UN's Goal 6 under the 2030 agenda aims to ensure sustainable access to water and sanitation, including environmentally friendly sanitary products. UNICEF reports that millions worldwide face challenges managing menstrual health due to gender inequality and lack of access to sanitary products.

In response, we initiated the Period Poverty Project, led by young female representatives from One Young World (OYW). This project is now integrated into our Socio-Economic Development (SED) Transformation initiative to address period poverty.

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This project empowers 40 young women (20 in Gauteng and 20 in KwaZulu-Natal) with training in manufacturing reusable sanitary pads and business management skills. It provides a solution to a critical problem by helping them become entrepreneurs, boost local economies, and promote eco-friendly sanitary products.

EOH’s Period Poverty Project addresses a significant challenge faced by many young women who lack access to sanitary products, hindering their educational and social opportunities. The initiative is positively impacting the lives of women by providing the entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and resources to manufacture reusable sanitary pads.

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Within the manufacturing sector of this initiative, we've enabled reasonable accommodations to machinery, eliminating the need for foot controls. This adjustment makes it easier for women who are wheelchair-bound to join the team and maintain full control through other senses, demonstrating our dedication to inclusivity and empowerment.

The Period Poverty Project is seamlessly integrated into EOH's Social Enterprise Development programme, a key component of our youth empowerment initiative. This integrated approach offers continuous support, mentorship, and guidance, ensuring that these businesses realise their full potential and contribute to sustainable development goals and women's empowerment principles for long-term growth and sustainability.