Lacing up for dignity: Khayelitsha runner champions sanitary Pad drive for girls

A passionate athlete from Khayelitsha has turned his running shoes into a powerful tool for change.

Xolisa Zaleni, affectionately known as “Fizz” in his community, has committed to running every race he can, not for medals or personal bests, but to raise awareness and donations for sanitary towels for underprivileged girls.

On Sunday, October 19, Mr Zaleni was set to complete a full 42.2km in the Cape Town Marathon, proudly carrying a handwritten placard that read: “Sanitary towels are a right, not a privilege.”

When the race was unexpectedly cancelled at the last minute, the Site C resident was undeterred. Instead, he laced up and ran laps around an open field, joined by a handful of fellow runners - continuing his campaign regardless of the official event.

Mr Zaleni decided to tackle the lack of sanitary towels in the Site C area and local schools after witnessing the struggles faced by young girls.

“I am actually assisting my friend Andiswa Siwela with her idea. She is doing a wonderful job to provide pads to the underprivileged. It is a known fact that many people in the townships are unemployed. We have a lot of young girls who cannot afford or do not have such important things. I have decided to embark on this on my own. I have approached some of my friends and runners who have promised to come on board. The aim is simple: to give our daughters and sisters dignity,” he said.

Mr Zaleni has since rallied other runners and community members to join the cause, encouraging people to donate sanitary towels which will be distributed to girls in schools around Site C.

“The goal is simple, to give our daughters and sisters the dignity they deserve,” he said.

His efforts have been met with praise and support. Friend and fellow community member Simphiwe Kwadi shared how deeply moved he was by Zaleni’s mission.

“When I heard he was running for such a cause, I was inspired. This is the kind of leadership our communities need. I’ve committed to donating pads myself and even spoke to my bosses at work about supporting the campaign. No girl should miss school because of something so basic.”

Teacher and runner Sibongile Mashiyi said: “What Xolisa is doing is beyond words. As a teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the impact this issue has on learners. Some girls stay home, others use unhealthy materials. It breaks your heart. The fact that a man is leading this campaign? That’s powerful. It shows that real men care, not just for their own families, but for those who need support the most.”

Donations of sanitary towels are welcome and greatly appreciated. To contribute to the cause, please contact Andiswa Siwela at 083 410 9999 or Mr Zaleni at 084 928 7863