Girls Care Clubs

Girls Care Clubs are safe, supportive spaces established within schools, designed to nurture and empower girls to thrive both personally and academically. These clubs help girls overcome challenges, build essential life skills, and foster self-confidence, enabling them to achieve their goals and remain in school for the full twelve years of education.

Background

In May 2023, ZAFAYCO, with support from the Malala Fund Girls Program, launched the National Network for Girls Social Shifters (NNGSS), a network of 60 dynamic young girls selected from 88 candidates through strategic interviews. Insights gathered from NNGSS members over the course of a year revealed the urgent need for safe, supportive spaces in schools, leading to the establishment of Girls Care Clubs.

To date, 20 clubs have been established in Unguja and 8 in Pemba. With a vision to expand, ZAFAYCO aims to create 12 additional clubs in Pemba, reaching a total of 40 clubs across Zanzibar.

The establishment of Girls Care Clubs has been made possible through collaborative efforts with partners, including Marie Stopes Tanzania, under the Advancing SRHR for Girls in Africa project.

Challenges Girls Face:

• Limited access to effective school counseling.
• Uncomfortable school environments during menstruation.
• Lack of girl-friendly restroom facilities and proper disposal methods for menstrual hygiene products.
• Fears of early marriage and doubts about future career prospects.
• Lack of self-trust and insufficient parental support.

How Girls Care Clubs Help

Girls Care Clubs create nurturing environments within schools where girls feel valued, inspired, and equipped to overcome obstacles. These clubs offer:

• Skill-building workshops to enhance personal and academic growth.
• Access to mentors and role models who guide and inspire.
• Improved facilities for menstrual hygiene management.
• Peer support networks to encourage mental and emotional well-being.
• Leadership development and academic guidance for future success.

How You Can Help

Your support is vital to the success and growth of Girls Care Clubs. Here’s how you can contribute:

Financial Donations

You can donate any amount to support the activities of Girls Care Clubs, helping to create safer, more inclusive school environments.

In-Kind Donations

• Hygiene Kits: Including sanitary pads, reusable menstrual products, and disposal bins.
• Skill Development Tools: Sewing kits, art supplies, or entrepreneurship materials for workshops.

Volunteer Support

• Training and Mentorship: Offer your expertise in areas like leadership, entrepreneurship, or personal development.
• Community Engagement: Help promote the initiative and connect with more schools and communities.

The Impact of Your Support

• Keep girls in school, fostering a future of empowered leaders.
• Improve access to essential facilities and resources for girls' well-being.
• Build a community of support that motivates girls to achieve their fullest potential.