spreading periods awareness

A mere conversation about how the stereotypes and stigma related to periods has become such a "common" thing in most Indian households, led to a much broader initiative to combat just this. As girls we're often told by our elders "Don't enter the kitchen for those 5 days" or "Wait a few days before you can pray in the mandir". Being on your period, does not equate to having to follow such norms. We aim to educate the youth of India about menstrual health and hygiene and its importance. We will be hosting awareness campaigns around the city to educate young girls and also boys, about the necessities of menstrual health. Our initiative will cover a broad spectrum of things, ranging from the biology of menstruation to how to change and dispose sanitary napkins and distribution drives.

Our first drive was conducted at the Rainbow shelter of the Loreto Convent School, Kolkata where we gave the girls sanitary pads. We told the girls about what happens during this time and how we use a pad so that they are aware and learn about it. We had a wonderful day singing, dancing and chatting with the wonderful girls.They gave us "Thank You" cards in return which was one of the major highlights of our day!

Held on September 16, 2023, the artistic drive saw our volunteers paint beautiful murals and paintings on the blank walls present in the locality to spread awareness about sanitary health and the unavailability of sanitary products to a surprising majority. With about 11 volunteers in tow, our efforts were a huge success as we apprised a large number of people of the issues that people often turn a blind eye towards.

We educated the girls of classes 4-6 of the heritage school about periods and spread awareness and educate them about it to break the stigma related to periods.It was a pleasure taking this session with them and getting to know what they thought about it and talking to them about it to ease their mind.