Last Thursday, South African media personality and actress Kayise Ngqula addressed young girls at Midrand High School during a special event marking International Day of the Girl Child.
The event was organised by Dove, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) as part of Dove’s #ChangeTheCompliment campaign.
KAYISE NGQULA INSPIRES GIRLS BEYOND BEAUTY
The initiative encourages society to recognise girls for their courage, creativity, intelligence, and achievements, rather than focusing solely on appearance.
By emphasising character over looks, the campaign aims to foster confidence, self-belief, and a sense of purpose among young South African girls.
“Being given the honour is a privilege because it means the work I do to inspire young girls is seen,” says Kayise.
The Dove Self-Esteem Project Ambassador says speaking at the event feels like a full-circle moment. It reflects her purpose and passion for empowering others.
SHIFTING COMPLIMENTS FROM BEAUTY TO BRILLIANCE
Through this collaboration, Dove’s Self-Esteem Project continues to reach millions of young people worldwide. It aims to reshape conversations around beauty and self-worth.
“Change the Compliment is necessary because women are now building tables, not just sitting at them,” says Ngqula.
The actress says the campaign encourages society to recognise women for more than appearance, acknowledging their voices, impact, and contributions.
She believes this shift helps reshape how young girls view themselves and how society measures their value and potential.
For her, true empowerment begins when girls understand their worth extends far beyond how they look or are perceived.
THE POWER OF SELF-BELIEF AND VISION
Reflecting on her journey, Kayise shares how self-belief carries her from being a dream-filled schoolgirl to becoming a recognised voice in entertainment.
“Self-belief is the most powerful thing you can have,” she says. “It took me from one level to the next.”
She recalls walking through the school halls at the event, remembering her own days in Pretoria, dreaming about speaking on such platforms.
That vision, paired with the support of her parents, teachers and friends, gave her the foundation to achieve her dreams.
BUILDING PLATFORMS AND EMPOWERING OTHERS
Kayise believes that empowerment must extend beyond events, it should live in how people use their voices daily.
“As public figures, we must build platforms and use our voices to uplift and empower others,” she says.
She urges both celebrities and ordinary citizens to reflect and take action. Together, they can celebrate women’s individuality, strength, and resilience.
The #ChangeTheCompliment campaign encourages South Africans to use affirmations like “You are beautiful and courageous” or “You are intelligent.”
By doing so, the campaign nurtures lasting confidence that empowers girls to value themselves beyond physical beauty and societal expectations.