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EZEKIEL PHALANA
ADDITIONAL INFO BY LIL-LETS AND PICTURES
Lil-Lets is strengthening its commitment to breaking the cycle of stigma and shame surrounding menstruation with the launch of Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up, an illustrated book created to help children navigate puberty, menstruation and the emotional changes that come with growing up.
Aimed at children aged 8 to 13, the book introduces young readers to important aspects of growing up, including first periods, body changes and emotional development, through an honest, age-appropriate and relatable story.
Importantly, Masana the Brave is designed for both girls and boys, encouraging greater understanding, empathy and open conversation about menstruation from an early age.
At the centre of the story is Masana, a young girl navigating the curiosity and uncertainty that accompany growing up. Through her journey, the book addresses myths, taboos and misinformation surrounding menstruation, replacing confusion and fear with knowledge, confidence and a sense of normalcy.
The launch builds on Lil-Lets’ long-standing Cyclebreakers platform, which challenges outdated narratives around menstruation and seeks to equip the next generation with the knowledge and language to speak openly about menstrual health.
Written by Puno Selesho, who previously contributed to Lil-Lets’ award-winning Be You. Period. campaign, and illustrated by Gabby Correia, the book combines cultural relevance with emotional storytelling to create a meaningful connection with young readers.
“For many young people, especially girls, the first experience of menstruation can be confusing or even frightening,” says Keryn Brien, Marketing Executive at Premier FMCG. “This book is about changing that narrative. Through storytelling, we can normalise these conversations, break down stigma and give children the confidence to understand what’s happening to their bodies.”
Turning Every Purchase into an Opportunity to Educate
Lil-Lets is also extending the impact of the initiative beyond the pages of the book through a pay-it-forward mechanism. For every copy purchased, another copy will be donated to a girl in need, helping make essential menstrual health education accessible to communities where it is needed most.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has endorsed Masana the Brave, describing it as a warm and affirming story that normalises menstruation and equips learners with the language and confidence to navigate puberty without shame.
The Department further notes that the book’s authentic South African voice reflects Gender Transformative Education principles, while supporting efforts to break the silence around menstrual health, promote sanitary dignity and foster supportive school communities.
The resource forms part of the collaborative partnership framework between the Department of Basic Education and Premier FMCG through its Lil-Lets brand.
Available Nationwide
Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up is available for R200 per copy at Exclusive Books stores nationwide and online.
Through the launch, Lil-Lets is using the power of storytelling to encourage a generation of young people to approach puberty and menstruation with knowledge rather than fear, and confidence rather than shame.
Because understanding your body should never come with fear or shame — only confidence.