By Sheefah Irambona
Girl Power Hour celebrates young women who are using their voices, talents and passions to make a positive impact in the world around them. At just 12 years old, Lienke Uys is already making a meaningful difference in her community. Whether she’s advocating for vulnerable children, supporting horse welfare initiatives or raising awareness for seafarers, Lienke is showing that you are never too young to serve others.
Describing herself as “perfectly imperfect”, Lienke embraces the idea that growth is a journey.
“I’m just learning, growing, trying to make a difference while being myself,” she says.
It’s a refreshing perspective in a world that often expects perfection.
Her love for animals began at the age of six when she started horse riding. Today, that passion has grown into something much bigger. Not only has she built partnerships through the equestrian world to raise funds for horse welfare charities, but she also dreams of one day opening an animal shelter where neglected animals can find safety and care.
Her latest initiative reflects that same spirit. Through a partnership with The Mission to Seafarers, Lienke is raising awareness about the thousands of crew members who spend months at sea transporting the food, medicine and everyday goods that keep the global economy moving. Far from their families and loved ones, many face long periods of isolation.
To support seafarers who find themselves in hospital, Lienke is raising funds to create care packs that offer comfort during difficult times.
“You don’t need to have a lot of money or even be an adult to help someone. Sometimes you just need to show up, give your time and listen. For me, service isn’t something I want to do once for a photo. I want it to be part of who I am.”
With all things considered, young people are often described as the future, but they are also very much a part of the present. They are the seeds of tomorrow, and without encouragement, opportunity and support, their potential can never fully flourish.
As a society, we have a responsibility to nurture their ambitions, celebrate their achievements and clear pathways for them to grow. As Eleanor Roosevelt wisely said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
Lienke Uys is already living that belief. Through kindness, purpose and quiet determination, she’s reminding us that making a difference doesn’t begin when you become an adult. It begins the moment you decide to care.
Listen to the full conversation here: https://echocast.fabrik.fm//8n16DLXJwGWKVvqQ
Tune into Girl Power Hour every Saturday from 5:00–6:00 pm for more inspiring conversations with young women who are creating positive change in their communities, one story at a time.
