South Africa - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Shero Pads are reusable, modular menstrual pads featuring a base and detachable pad liners for convenience, efficiency, and affordability. Available in single unit packs, 3 packs, and top-up pad liner packs.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Shero Pads are an innovative, eco-friendly menstrual product designed to offer convenience, efficiency, and affordability. These reusable pads are modular, consisting of a base and detachable pad liners, allowing users to customize absorbency and reduce waste. The modular design enables easy cleaning and quick changes, making them a practical choice for various menstrual flow levels. Shero Pads come in different packaging options to suit individual needs: Single Unit Pack: Ideal for first-time users to try the product. 3 Pack: Provides a cost-effective solution for regular use. Top-Up Pad Liner Pack: Allows users to replenish their liners without purchasing new bases, enhancing sustainability and affordability. By combining comfort, versatility, and eco-consciousness, Shero Pads offer a modern solution to menstrual care, promoting both personal and environmental well-being.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem Shero Pads aim to solve is the environmental and financial burden of single-use menstrual products. Traditional disposable pads and tampons contribute significantly to plastic waste, which takes centuries to decompose, harming our environment. Additionally, the recurring cost of disposable products can be a financial strain, especially for those with limited resources. Shero Pads address these issues by offering reusable, modular menstrual pads. The detachable pad liners allow for easy cleaning and quick changes, making them both convenient and cost-effective. This design not only reduces waste but also lowers the long-term cost of menstrual care. By providing various packaging options, Shero Pads ensure accessibility and adaptability to different user needs, promoting sustainability and financial savings while maintaining comfort and efficiency.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Shero Pads offer several major benefits: Environmental Sustainability: By being reusable, Shero Pads significantly reduce the plastic waste generated by single-use menstrual products. The modular design with detachable pad liners further enhances their eco-friendliness, minimising landfill waste and contributing to a cleaner planet. Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, Shero Pads are more economical than continuously purchasing disposable pads or tampons. The availability of top-up pad liner packs allows users to refresh their pads without buying entire new sets, saving money in the long run. Convenience and Customisability: The modular design enables easy cleaning and quick changes. Users can customize the pad’s absorbency by adding or removing liners, ensuring comfort and effectiveness for different menstrual flow levels. This flexibility makes Shero Pads a practical solution for diverse needs and preferences.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Shero Pads are aimed at serving individuals who menstruate, particularly those seeking sustainable, cost-effective, and convenient menstrual care solutions. The targeted beneficiaries include: Environmentally Conscious Consumers: Individuals who are mindful of their ecological footprint and prefer eco-friendly products. Cost-Sensitive Users: People looking to reduce their long-term spending on menstrual products, including students, low-income individuals, and families. Active and Busy Individuals: Those who require reliable and convenient menstrual solutions that can be easily managed during their daily activities, such as working professionals, athletes, and travelers. Health-Conscious Users: Individuals who prefer products made from safe, non-toxic materials, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals often found in disposable products. Advocates for Sustainable Living: People who support and promote sustainable living practices and products within their communities.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2020-11-06

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

0

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

n/a

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

http://www.xenithafrixher.co.za

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

d) Primary commodities (food, drink, household and personal products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

2

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Chemical-Free Materials: Made from non-toxic materials, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals found in many disposable products, thus preventing skin irritation and allergic reactions. Hygienic Design: The modular design with detachable pad liners ensures thorough cleaning, maintaining high hygiene standards and preventing infections. Comfort and Customisability: Customisable absorbency allows users to adjust pads to their needs, enhancing comfort and reducing leak risks, supporting physical well-being. Economic Relief: By reducing the need to frequently purchase disposable products, Shero Pads alleviate financial strain, particularly for low-income individuals, positively impacting mental health. Environmental Health: Promoting reusable products reduces plastic waste and pollution, contributing to a healthier environment, which benefits community well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

School Attendance: By providing reliable menstrual products, Shero Pads help reduce absenteeism among menstruating students who might otherwise miss school due to a lack of access to adequate menstrual care, thus ensuring consistent participation in education. Affordability: The cost-effectiveness of reusable Shero Pads alleviates the financial burden on families, allowing them to allocate more resources to educational needs such as books, uniforms, and tuition. Menstrual Health Education: Shero Pads promote awareness and education about menstrual health, breaking down stigmas and encouraging open discussions. This knowledge empowers students to manage their menstrual health better and fosters a supportive learning environment. Sustainability Education: Using eco-friendly products like Shero Pads teaches students about sustainable practices and environmental responsibility, integrating these important concepts into their education.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Reducing Period Poverty: By providing affordable and reusable menstrual products, Shero Pads help reduce period poverty, ensuring that menstruating individuals can attend school or work without disruption, thereby promoting equal opportunities for all genders. Empowering Women and Girls: Access to reliable menstrual care products empowers women and girls to participate fully in education and employment, breaking down barriers that have traditionally limited their opportunities. Breaking Stigmas: Shero Pads encourage open conversations about menstruation, helping to normalise it and reduce the stigma and shame often associated with periods. This promotes a more inclusive and understanding society.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

2

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Shero Pads contribute to decent work and economic growth in several key ways: Affordable Menstrual Care: By offering reusable and cost-effective menstrual products, Shero Pads reduce the financial burden on individuals, allowing them to allocate more resources to other essential needs and investments, thereby supporting overall economic stability. Reducing Absenteeism: Access to reliable menstrual products helps reduce absenteeism in the workplace and educational institutions, ensuring that menstruating individuals can participate fully and consistently in their professional and academic lives, boosting productivity. 4. Job Creation: The production, distribution, and marketing of Shero Pads create employment opportunities, supporting eco

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

2

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Affordable Access: By providing cost-effective, reusable menstrual products, Shero Pads make menstrual care accessible to individuals from low-income backgrounds, helping to bridge the gap between different socioeconomic groups. Reducing Period Poverty: Shero Pads help alleviate period poverty, ensuring that all menstruating individuals, regardless of their financial situation, have access to reliable menstrual products. This promotes equal opportunities in education, work, and daily life. Educational Opportunities: By reducing absenteeism due to menstrual issues, Shero Pads enable students from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend school more consistently, supporting equal educational opportunities and long-term social mobility.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Reducing Waste: As reusable products, Shero Pads significantly reduce the volume of menstrual waste generated, helping to alleviate the burden on local waste management systems and landfills, thereby promoting cleaner and more sustainable urban environments. Environmental Conservation: By decreasing reliance on disposable menstrual products, Shero Pads help reduce the demand for raw materials and energy used in manufacturing, leading to lower carbon footprints and resource conservation, benefiting urban and rural communities alike. Promoting Health and Hygiene: The hygienic design of Shero Pads improves menstrual health and well-being, reducing the strain on local healthcare services and contributing to healthier communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Waste Reduction: As reusable menstrual products, Shero Pads significantly cut down on the waste generated by disposable pads and tampons, promoting a more sustainable consumption pattern. Resource Efficiency: The production of Shero Pads requires fewer raw materials and less energy compared to the continuous manufacture of single-use products, leading to more efficient use of resources and lower environmental impact. Longevity and Durability: Designed for long-term use, Shero Pads reduce the frequency of purchases, encouraging consumers to adopt more sustainable, long-lasting consumption habits.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Reduced Emissions: As reusable products, Shero Pads significantly decrease the demand for disposable menstrual products, which require energy-intensive manufacturing processes. This reduction in production and transportation emissions helps mitigate climate change. Resource Conservation: By minimising the need for raw materials such as plastic and cotton, Shero Pads conserve natural resources and reduce deforestation and habitat destruction associated with conventional disposable products, thereby preserving ecosystems and biodiversity. Waste Reduction: Shero Pads drastically cut down on the volume of menstrual waste sent to landfills, where it emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By promoting reuse and reducing waste generation, Shero Pads contribute to overall waste reduction efforts, mitigating climate impacts.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Plastic Reduction: Traditional menstrual products contain plastic components that contribute to ocean pollution. Shero Pads, being reusable, significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste entering marine ecosystems, helping to preserve marine life and habitats. Chemical Pollution Prevention: Disposable menstrual products often contain harmful chemicals that can leach into water bodies, posing risks to aquatic organisms. By using non-toxic materials, Shero Pads help prevent chemical pollution and protect water quality, supporting the health of marine ecosystems. Micro-plastic Prevention: Disposable pads and tampons contribute to the proliferation of micro-plastics in oceans and waterways as they break down over time. Shero Pads, being reusable and durable, minimise the shedding of micro-plastics into aquatic environments, reducing harm to marine s

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Forest Conservation: Traditional menstrual products often use wood pulp from forests, contributing to deforestation and habitat loss. Shero Pads, being reusable, minimise the demand for these resources, helping to preserve terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Waste Reduction: Disposable menstrual products generate significant amounts of non-biodegradable waste that can pollute landfills and natural habitats. Shero Pads, by promoting reuse, reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills, mitigating the negative impacts on terrestrial environments and wildlife. Chemical Pollution Prevention: Disposable pads and tampons may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the soil and affect terrestrial organisms. Shero Pads, made from safe and non-toxic materials, help prevent chemical pollution, supporting soil health and biodiversity on land.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Gender Equality: By providing affordable menstrual care, Shero Pads empower women and girls, promoting gender equality and challenging societal stigmas surrounding menstruation, fostering a more inclusive and just society. Access to Education: Reliable menstrual products from Shero Pads reduce absenteeism among menstruating students, ensuring equal access to education and supporting the development of strong educational institutions that promote peace and stability. Public Health: Access to safe and hygienic menstrual care through Shero Pads improves public health outcomes, reducing the burden on healthcare systems and strengthening institutional capacity to address menstrual health issues effectively.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

NGOs and Nonprofits: Partnering with NGOs and nonprofits allows Shero Pads to reach underserved communities and distribute menstrual products to those in need, aligning with SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). Government Agencies: Collaborating with government agencies facilitates policy advocacy for menstrual health and hygiene, supporting SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Corporate Partners: Partnering with corporations helps scale up production and distribution of Shero Pads, ensuring wider accessibility and affordability, thereby contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Academic Institutions: Collaborating with academic institutions fosters research and innovation in menstrual health and sustainability, supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

Shero Pads stand out in the market due to several key factors. Despite existing alternatives, our offering provides distinct benefits or features that set it apart, attracting customers seeking novel solutions or enhanced experiences. Groundbreaking technology or novel approaches underpin our product, positioning it as a trailblazer in its industry and appealing to early adopters. Building upon existing products, ours delivers superior performance, functionality, or user experience, enticing customers with its heightened capabilities. As an extension of an established brand or product line, ours capitalises on existing trust and loyalty while branching into new territories, expanding market reach and relevance. Additionally, our offering fills a gap in the market by addressing unmet customer needs and pain points, resonating with underserved segments and carving out a niche for itself.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Our main potential competitors include Always, Palesa Pads, Clicks pads, Stay-free, Comfitex, and Kotex, all established in the reusable menstrual products market. What Makes Us Stand Out: Modular Design: Shero Pads feature a unique base and detachable pad liners, allowing users to customise absorbency levels, enhancing convenience and efficiency. Affordability: Our product offerings include single unit packs, three-packs, and top-up pad liner packs, making Shero Pads a cost-effective choice for a broad range of consumers, especially those in lower-income brackets. Local Sourcing and Sustainability: We prioritise sourcing materials locally and supporting local businesses, reducing our carbon footprint and fostering economic growth within the community, setting us apart in the eco-friendly product space. Health and Safety: Made from non-toxic, skin-friendly materials, Shero Pads ensure maximum comfort without exposure to harmful chemicals found in disposable products.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

n/a