The student chapter of North-West University’s GoAllOut Organization has etched its name in history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest line of sanitary pads with their Pad the Way project.
Following meticulous verification, Guinness World Records officially recognized the student chapter’s achievement, documenting an impressive count of 51,870 sanitary pads laid out over a staggering distance of 3,565 meters (3.5km). This monumental feat, disclosed on May 1, 2024, underscores the power of collective action and resolute determination in addressing critical social issues.
The record-breaking endeavor, undertaken last year, demanded an exhaustive 18 hours, with over 200 devoted volunteers contributing to its success. Each pad was carefully positioned, under the watchful eyes of independent witnesses, including auditors from Maine Accountants.
The Pad the Way initiative, spearheaded by the GoAllOut student chapter, aimed to raise awareness about and combat period poverty.
“In South Africa, period poverty exacerbates socioeconomic disparities, with an estimated 30% of girls missing school during menstruation due to limited access to sanitary products. Our initiative sought to challenge the stigma surrounding menstruation and advocate for sustainable solutions to this pervasive issue,” explains Thabang Ramabodu, NWU alumnus and GoAllOut’s head of campaigns.
“Through strategic partnerships with Bidvest Steiner and other corporate donors, the GoAllOut Organization collected over 100,000 sanitary pads for the event. Beyond the symbolic triumph of breaking the Guinness World Record, these pads were distributed to schools, universities, and charitable organizations to address the immediate needs of those affected by period poverty,” he adds.
In addition to the distribution of sanitary pads, the organization installed sanitary pad dispensers in prominent locations, including Mahikeng Mall and The Crossing shopping centers. These endeavors prioritize accessibility and dignity, ensuring that menstrual hygiene products are readily available to those in need.
The initiative’s impact extends beyond the record-breaking achievement, with ongoing advocacy efforts aimed at policy change. A Change.org petition, emphasizing the imperative for policies to address menstrual equity, continues to gain traction and aims to garner 500,000 signatures within 12 months.
Looking forward, the GoAllOut Organization remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting for menstrual equity. Plans include expanding the sanitary pad dispenser program, developing educational workshops focused on menstrual health, and continuing to advocate for policy change through various initiatives.
The journey to the Pad the Way world record stands as a testament to the transformative potential of youth-led leadership and collaboration in effecting positive change.
