By AGISANANG SCUFF
30 June 2025- Engen has congratulated Candice Chirwa on her inclusion in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2025. A leading voice in menstrual health education and youth advocacy, Chirwa continues to blaze a trail across South Africa and beyond.
At just 29, the founder and director of Qrate is redefining what it means to lead with purpose. Through Qrate, a youth-run non-profit that uses education and empowerment to dismantle menstrual stigma, Candice has made it her mission to spark bold discussions, influence policy, and empower young girls to reclaim their dignity and take up space even during their period.
In 2024, Chirwa partnered with Engen. Her contributions brought significant value to Engen’s community engagement initiatives, where she leveraged her voice and platform to inspire youth and ignite important conversations about dignity, confidence, and self-worth – particularly among young girls facing challenges in under-resourced communities.
“Being named a Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 honouree is a remarkable achievement and Candice has truly earned her place among the continent’s brightest changemakers,” commented Tsholo Tiro, brand & sponsorship manager at Engen.
Tiro said Chirwa’s fearless advocacy and meaningful partnership with Engen have enriched our community programmes in powerful ways. She said they are proud to celebrate this milestone with her and support her continued journey as one of South Africa’s most inspiring youth leaders.
“Chirwa’s recognition aligns with Engen’s broader commitment to nurturing young talent through programmes like the Engen Knockout Challenge and Engen Champ of Champs football tournaments, and community-based educational initiatives such as the Engen Maths & Science Schools and Engen Computer School programmes.
“Chirwa’s influence, particularly in the space of gender equity and health literacy, mirrors Engen’s values of growth, empowerment, and creating lasting societal change,” said Tiro.
Tiro further said as Chirwa steps into the global spotlight, they salute her unwavering passion and celebrate the future she continues to shape one courageous conversation at a time.
The Guardian 