On the 11th of October every year, the world takes a moment to observe one of the most important days on the annual social calendar – international day of the girl child.

The occasion is usually one which inspires discussions, activism and casts a spotlight on the millions of girls across the world who still face barriers when it comes to accessing education, work opportunities and living in a safe society.

 

On this year’s Day of the Girl Child, we speak to influencer and champion for girls’ and women’s rights, Dineo Dube who shares some thoughts on how we can turn lessons from this day into progress for a lifetime.

 

Dineo Dube – Consistently Supporting The Girls of SA

This year’s theme for International Day of the Girl Child is “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” How does this resonate with your personal mission and vision?

I believe that the theme “Girls’ Vision for the Future” resonates deeply with my mission to empower young girls and encourage them to embrace their individuality. I strive to inspire confidence and creativity through my platform, emphasising the importance of self-expression and pursuing dreams. By advocating for education and equal opportunities, I hope to contribute to a future where every girl can envision and achieve her goals, shaping a world where our voices are heard and valued.

 

I was inspired to become an influencer because I wanted to create a space where young women could see themselves represented and celebrated. Growing up, I often felt a lack of relatable role models, so I aimed to fill that gap. My platform has allowed me to share my journey, struggles, and successes, and to connect with other young women facing similar challenges. Through motivational content, I advocate for empowerment, self-love, and education, helping to uplift and inspire the next generation of women in South Africa.

 

Improving access to quality education for girls in South Africa requires a multifaceted approach. First, we need to address barriers like poverty and transportation by providing scholarships and safe transport options. It’s also essential to invest in infrastructure, ensuring schools are equipped and safe.

Additionally, we should promote STEM programs and mentorship opportunities to inspire girls to pursue diverse fields. Engaging communities through awareness campaigns can help shift mindsets about the importance of educating girls. Finally, collaboration between government, NGOs, and private sectors is crucial to create sustainable initiatives that empower girls through education. Together, we can create a future where every girl has the opportunity to learn and thrive.

 

When collaborating with major brands, I prioritise partnerships that reflect my values of uplifting women and girls. I carefully assess a brand’s mission, their commitment to social responsibility, and how they support female empowerment.

 

I look for brands that actively promote inclusivity and contribute to initiatives that benefit women and girls. Additionally, I advocate for campaigns that encourage dialogue around important issues, ensuring that our collaboration sends a positive message. By aligning myself with brands that share my vision, I can create meaningful content that not only resonates with my audience but also makes a tangible impact in the community.

 

To young girls in South Africa aspiring to build careers in fashion, content creation, or entrepreneurship, my advice is to stay true to yourself and embrace your unique voice. Don’t be afraid to express your creativity and share your perspective with the world.

 

Networking is key, so connect with others in your field, seek mentors, and learn from their experiences. Be resilient—there will be challenges, but each setback is an opportunity to grow. Lastly, invest in your skills and knowledge; continuous learning will empower you to innovate and succeed. Remember, you have the power to shape your own path and inspire others along the way!

 

I use my platform to raise awareness about the importance of safety for young women by sharing personal stories and highlighting real issues that many girls face. I collaborate with organisations focused on women’s safety, using my voice to amplify their messages and resources.

 

Through discussions, informative posts, and live sessions, I engage my audience on topics like consent, mental health, and self-defense. I encourage open conversations about these issues, creating a supportive community where girls feel empowered to speak up and seek help. My goal is to foster a culture of safety and support, ensuring that every girl knows she deserves to feel safe and valued.

 

Social media plays a transformative role in creating opportunities for girls and young women, especially in underserved communities. It provides a platform for them to share their stories, showcase their talents, and connect with a global audience.

 

Through social media, young women can access educational resources, find mentors, and engage with communities that support their growth. It also allows for the amplification of important issues, raising awareness about challenges they face and inspiring collective action. By leveraging social media, we can break down barriers, create visibility, and empower girls to seize opportunities that can change their lives. Ultimately, it fosters a sense of belonging and encourages them to dream big.

 

Being called the “Consistent Queen” resonates with me because consistency is crucial in both my fashion work and my efforts to empower the next generation of girls. In fashion, maintaining a consistent style and message helps build my brand identity and connect authentically with my audience.

 

When it comes to empowering girls, consistency means showing up regularly to share valuable content, resources, and support. It’s about being reliable and creating a safe space where young women know they can turn for encouragement and inspiration. By consistently advocating for their rights and sharing success stories, I hope to motivate them to pursue their dreams. Ultimately, consistency builds trust, and I believe it’s key to making a lasting impact in the community.