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Midrand High was buzzing this morning as media personality Hulisani Ravele hosted the launch of Dove’s #ChangeTheCompliment campaign in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

The #ChangeTheCompliment campaign is set to empower young girls in South Africa. This initiative encourages parents, caregivers and educators to shift their praise from appearance-based compliments to recognizing girls’ values, achievements and inner strengths.

Research highlights the need for this campaign, with:

– Over 80% of South African girls reporting feelings of shame about their appearance

– 83% altering or concealing their bodies before sharing photos on social media

– 20% of girls aged 10-17 willing to be 25% less intelligent if they could be 25% more beautiful

The #ChangeTheCompliment campaign urges South Africans to broaden their compliments, celebrating girls for who they are and what they do, not just how they look.

By expressing sentiments like “You are beautiful AND courageous” or “You are intelligent,” we can foster a generation that recognizes their intrinsic worth beyond physical appearance.

Through the Dove Self-Esteem Project, Dove has reached over 137 million young people globally with a goal of reaching 250 million young lives by 2030. In South Africa, the partnership with DBE and DBSA has delivered Body Confidence workshops reaching 600 learners and training over 500 Learner Support agents.

Let’s work together to empower young girls and help them develop confidence that goes beyond appearance.

To learn more and download free resources, visit the Dove website.