Imagine being a young girl in South Africa, full of dreams and potential. But every day, you're forced to live in fear. Fear of being hurt, fear of being exploited, fear of not being believed. The reality is harsh - many girls in South Africa face sexual abuse, violence, and harassment.

Now imagine facing these challenges with an additional layer of vulnerability - a disability. A girl who is deaf may struggle to call for help, a girl who is blind may navigate unsafe spaces alone, and a girl with a physical disability may be more susceptible to abuse due to dependence on others.

Their stories are often unheard, their struggles overlooked. But we need to listen, we need to care. We need to create a society that protects and empowers all girls, regardless of their abilities. A society where every girl can grow up feeling safe, valued, and respected.

I am Thembeka Dhlula and this is my advocacy.

By Thembeka Dhlula