In an inspiring interview on JustGospel Radio with presenter Malefa Basiu, entrepreneur Sherie Palesa De Wet shared how her company Palesa Pads is revolutionizing menstrual health across Africa while keeping over 130,000 girls in school.
The journey began when De Wet, a former teacher turned software professional, was deeply moved after learning about girls missing school due to lack of access to sanitary products. Rather than distributing disposable pads, she spent six months developing a washable, reusable pad solution that could last for 5 years.
"I definitely am not the inventor of cloth pads," De Wet humbly explained, noting that such solutions have existed for generations. "What I did do is create a lovely brand that is affordable and long-lasting."
The breakthrough came when De Wet discovered that using sports fabric rather than cotton created pads that don't stain, fade, or become rough after washing. After 12 versions of product development, Palesa Pads launched in October 2017.
Since then, the company has sold over 1 million pads, which translates to keeping 200 million disposable pads out of landfills, as each reusable pad can replace approximately 200 disposable ones. The company works throughout South Africa and neighboring countries including Namibia, Botswana, and Tanzania, partnering with corporations and churches to distribute pads to schools.
Beyond environmental impact, De Wet discovered unexpected health benefits: "When I switched over to Palesa pads, that horrible period smell went away," she shared, explaining this was due to eliminating chemicals found in disposable products. Users also reported reduced cramping.
The name "Palesa" means flower, chosen to represent feminine protection and care. What started as an initiative to end period poverty has evolved into a broader mission encompassing product safety, menstrual hygiene education, and dignity for all women regardless of economic status.
Those interested in supporting the initiative or purchasing products can visit palesapads.com for more information.
