CONSIDERING the Department of Social Development’s alarming statistics on teenage pregnancy in the Sarah Baartman District, Thárros Family Centre, an organisation dedicated to supporting the Hankey community, has partnered with Hankey Senior Secondary School to offer a series of weekly programmes tailored specifically to the needs of teenagers.
Founder of Thárros, Taise Sampson, said that in November 2023 she attended a workshop hosted by the Department of Social Development.
At the workshop, they focused on teenage pregnancy and the challenges it presents to the well-being of youth and their families.
Sampson said the department’s report revealed that the Sarah Baartman District has some of the youngest teenage mothers in the Eastern Cape.
“As an organisation that works directly with children, youth, and families, we recognised the importance of supporting teens in our immediate area and providing preventative programmes at schools and clinics,” said Sampson.
She said that youth face incredible pressure from peers, parents, educators, and, increasingly, social media. Sampson said that the need for supportive adults who can provide safe spaces for teens to engage, explore, and feel connected is vital.
As an organisation, she said they initiated “Teen Zone” at Hankey Senior.
With assistance from the school, she said that they offer Grades 8 and 9 learners a space and platform to share their experiences.
The social worker at Thárros, Zandile Mengu, said that the teenage pregnancy programme initially started in 2024, and in 2025 they officially changed the name to “Teen Zone”. She said that the programme, which takes place every Wednesday from 09:00 to 12:00, acknowledges that teenage life encompasses more than just pregnancy but also relationships, education, and personal growth.
“The Teen Zone initiative is a comprehensive programme designed to educate, support, and empower teenagers to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and relationships,” said Mengu.
The initiative entails several components:
. Safe space – a private and confidential environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics
. Education and awareness – comprehensive sex education, reproductive health, and promoting healthy relationships
. Support and resources – linking teenagers with the local healthcare facility
. Life skills and support – goal setting and planning, and counselling sessions for teenagers dealing with emotional and psychological challenges
Sampson said that despite offering the programme to the learners at Hankey Senior, they only reach a small portion of teenagers who need assistance.
With more hands, ideas, and resources, she believes that they can achieve so much more.
Sampson said that they would love to introduce guest speakers and therefore request those who are professionally equipped to address various topics to join their programme. She said that they would also appreciate any donations or financial assistance from individuals or businesses.
“A community strengthens when all sectors collaborate, invest, and partner. We urge people to consider our youth and their future by joining hands with us,” said Sampson.
For more information, contact Taise Sampson at 083 500 0910.
