Today, on Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women of South Africa, their resilience, brilliance and power. But we also want to shine a light on the often-overlooked truth: strong women are often raised by present, supportive and informed fathers.
At Dads for Pads, we believe that nurturing the women of tomorrow starts at home, with you, Dad.
Whether you’re raising a daughter, mentoring a niece, or coaching young girls in your community, your words, actions and values shape the way they see their bodies, their worth, and their future.
So, what does it actually mean to nurture the women of the future?
Firstly, it means talking about what’s open unspoken.
Menstruation. Puberty. Emotions. These aren’t just “women’s issues.” They are part of the human experience, and it’s time we stop treating them like taboo topics. When you sit with your daughter and talk openly about her period, or when you offer to pick up pads without making a big deal of it, you’re teaching her that there is nothing shameful about her body. You’re also showing her that men can be informed, supportive and sensitive.
Secondly, it means showing up beyond the breadwinner role.
Being present isn’t just about bringing home the paycheck. It’s about making school lunches, attending parent-teacher meetings, helping with homework, and yes, even being there when your child feels cramps for the first time and doesn’t know what’s happening. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be there.
Thirdly, it means advocating for her, even when she’s not in the room.
Being a dad also means being an ally. It means calling out sexist jokes in the locker room. It means supporting menstrual health education in schools. It means making sure your workplace supports parents and caregivers, mothers and fathers alike. Your daughter is watching. And so are her friends, your sons. Your community.
Next, it means teaching sons to be respectful, not just protective.
Let’s not raise boys to “protect girls”. Let’s raise them to respect girls. To understand consent. To talk about periods without cringing. To share chores and challenge gender stereotypes. That starts with what you modelling it every day.
Finally, it means joining movements that matter.
Dads for Pads isn’t just a catchy name. It’s a movement. It’s a commitment to break the silence around menstruation, tackle period poverty, and build a world where every child, regardless of gender has access to dignity, knowledge and support.
You can start by:
- Signing our Dads for Pads Petition
- Donating or sponsoring period products for local schools and shelters
- Start open conversations with your family.
To Every Dad Reading This:
This Women’s Day, don’t just post a quote or buy flowers. Do something that matters. Start a conversation. Show up for your daughter. Educate your son. Sign the petition. Challenge your biases. Support period dignity.
Because nurturing the women of the future doesn’t start when they’re 18. It starts when they’re 8. And it starts with you. Period.