At Impact Investment Solutions, we believe that addressing social issues like period poverty is not just a moral imperative but a strategic business opportunity, especially for Financial Managers, CFOs, Transformation Managers, ESD (Enterprise and Supplier Development) Managers, and CSI (Corporate Social Investment) Managers. Understanding and tackling period poverty can not only uplift communities but also align with broader corporate social responsibility goals, enhance B-BBEE scores, and ultimately contribute to long-term business sustainability.
What is Period Poverty?
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual hygiene education, toilets, handwashing facilities, and waste management, often due to financial constraints. It affects millions of women and girls globally, leading to significant disruptions in education, employment, and overall well-being. In South Africa, the issue is particularly acute, with many girls missing school during their menstrual cycles or even dropping out entirely because they cannot afford sanitary products.
The South African Context
In South Africa, period poverty is intertwined with broader socio-economic inequalities. According to various reports, a significant portion of South African girls and women struggle to afford menstrual products, which directly impacts their ability to participate fully in society. This issue is compounded by the stigma and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation, which further isolate those affected.
For Transformation Managers and ESD Managers, addressing period poverty aligns with broader goals of empowerment and social equity. By investing in initiatives that provide menstrual products and education, companies can make a tangible impact on the lives of women and girls, particularly in underprivileged communities.
Partnering with Blossom Care Solutions
One of our key partners in this space is Blossom Care Solutions, an innovative social enterprise dedicated to manufacturing and distributing affordable, eco-friendly sanitary pads. Blossom Care Solutions not only addresses the immediate need for menstrual products but also creates employment opportunities for women in the communities they serve. This aligns perfectly with the goals of CFOs and Financial Managers who are looking to make impactful investments that also deliver measurable returns.
You can watch an interview with Shamiela Sarlie – MD of Blossom Care Solutions – that we recorded at the Leaderex 2023 event:
Why Period Poverty Should Matter to Your Business
For CFOs and Financial Managers, the financial implications of investing in solutions to period poverty go beyond the immediate benefits. Addressing this issue can lead to a more educated and empowered workforce in the future, reducing absenteeism and improving productivity. Furthermore, businesses that are seen to be actively involved in such initiatives can enhance their reputation and brand loyalty among consumers who value corporate social responsibility.
For Transformation Managers, supporting initiatives that tackle period poverty can directly contribute to achieving B-BBEE scorecard targets. By investing in social enterprises like Blossom Care Solutions, businesses can fulfill their ESD and CSI obligations while making a meaningful difference in the lives of women and girls across South Africa.
For ESD Managers, period poverty presents an opportunity to support small, black-owned businesses like Blossom Care Solutions, which are making a significant social impact. By integrating these businesses into your supply chain, you not only contribute to economic empowerment but also address a critical social issue.
The Broader Impact
The impact of addressing period poverty extends beyond the immediate benefits to individuals. When girls and women have access to menstrual products, they can stay in school, participate in the workforce, and contribute to their communities. This, in turn, leads to broader socio-economic development and aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to gender equality and education.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
At Impact Investment Solutions, we believe that addressing period poverty should be a priority for any business committed to social impact. By partnering with organizations like Blossom Care Solutions, Financial Managers, CFOs, Transformation Managers, ESD Managers, and CSI Managers can make a real difference in the lives of South African women and girls, while also enhancing their own corporate social responsibility and B-BBEE initiatives.
We encourage you to explore how your business can get involved in this critical issue. Whether through direct investment, partnerships, or integrating these initiatives into your broader social impact strategy, the benefits are clear—not just for the individuals and communities you support but for your business as well.
Should you wish to deploy ESD, SED or other forms of grant funding to support these initiatives in South Africa, please do not hesitate to contact us.
