Zinhle Dube is a final-year Bachelor of Philosophy (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) student at North-West University, South Africa. Her academic interests include political economy, public policy, ESG, governance, and economic development. As the Founder and Chairperson of ThriveFem Foundation, she leads initiatives that promote girls' education, gender equality, and community development, including the Her Flow, Her Future campaign addressing period poverty. Zinhle has also gained practical experience through consulting and M&A virtual programs with Mastercard Advisors & Consulting Services and Morrison Foerster, complemented by leadership and customer service roles. She is passionate about applying research, analytical thinking, and strategic problem-solving to create sustainable social and economic impact.

Empowering Young Women Through Education, Leadership and Community Action: A Youth-Led Perspective from South Africa Achieving gender equality requires more than policy commitments; it demands meaningful investment in young women's education, leadership, and participation within their communities. This presentation explores how youth-led organisations can create sustainable social impact by addressing barriers such as period poverty, unequal educational opportunities, and limited access to leadership development.Drawing on my experiences leading ThriveFem Foundation, the presentation highlights practical approaches to empowering girls and young women through community initiatives, advocacy, and collaborative partnerships. It also reflects on the importance of youth leadership in shaping inclusive societies and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those relating to quality education, gender equality, and reduced inequalities.The presentation concludes by offering recommendations for strengthening collaboration between civil society organisations, educational institutions, policymakers, and young leaders to create lasting opportunities for women and girls across diverse communities.