On Friday, 11 September 2026, we travelled to KwaNongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal to spend the day with a group of young girls at Masihlangane Primary School.
For all of us at 21st Century Funeral Services, it was a special day. It marked the start of our new community initiative, Qhakaza Ntombi, which means “Shine, young woman.”
We started Qhakaza Ntombi because every young girl deserves to feel confident, valued and supported as she grows up. Sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation, a little encouragement and someone willing to listen.
Talking Openly About Growing Up
We spoke with the girls about menstruation, puberty and the changes that come with growing up. Our message was simple: these changes are natural, every girl experiences them in her own way, and there is nothing to be ashamed of.
We encouraged them to ask questions freely and to never feel embarrassed about their bodies.
Preparing for Umkhosi woMhlanga
The visit carried extra meaning because the girls were getting ready to travel to Emhlangeni for an important cultural gathering.
Umkhosi woMhlanga, the annual Zulu Reed Dance, is a ceremony connected to the Zulu monarchy. Young women carry reeds in a tradition that celebrates Zulu heritage, cultural identity and womanhood. It is also a chance for them to connect with traditions passed down through generations.
Knowing what lay ahead, we wanted the girls to feel confident and prepared, both for the cultural journey and for the changes they are going through as they grow.
Encouraging Girls to Believe in Themselves
Beyond puberty, we spoke about education and dreams. The effort they put into their schoolwork today can open doors for them tomorrow.
Whether they dream of becoming doctors, teachers, businesswomen or something else entirely, we wanted them to know their dreams matter. We encouraged them to respect themselves, believe in their abilities and never be afraid to ask for help.
Most of all, we wanted every girl to leave knowing that she is valued, her voice matters and her future is bright.
Why We Started Qhakaza Ntombi
At 21st Century Funeral Services, we believe supporting our communities goes beyond the services we provide. It is about being present, building real connections and making a positive difference where we can.
Not every young girl has someone she feels comfortable talking to about puberty, menstruation or the challenges of growing up. Qhakaza Ntombi gives girls a safe space to learn, share their experiences and talk about things that can feel hard to raise.
At Masihlangane, we sat with the girls, listened, shared what we know and reminded them that they are not alone. Sometimes a simple conversation helps a young girl feel more at home in herself. And sometimes a few words of encouragement remind her that she can achieve great things.
This Is Just the Beginning
We are deeply grateful to Masihlangane Primary School and the girls for welcoming us and sharing this moment with us.
As they set off for Emhlangeni, we hoped they would carry our messages with them: value yourself, embrace your growth, take your education seriously and keep believing in your dreams.
This first visit reminded us why Qhakaza Ntombi matters, and it has strengthened our commitment to take it further. We look forward to visiting more schools and communities and meeting more young girls along the way.
Help Us Reach More Girls
Do you know a school or community that would benefit from a Qhakaza Ntombi visit? Your suggestion could help us reach more young girls and give them the support they deserve.
Suggest a School or call 0861 217 218
Because every young girl deserves the chance to learn, grow and shine.
Qhakaza, Ntombi. Shine, young woman. Your story is only beginning.
