Shanta, the household help at my grandparents’ home, marked my very first success story and served as a cornerstone for this grassroots movement. Shanta and her daughters expressed profound gratitude upon learning about the health risks associated with poor hygiene and the simplicity and hygiene of using pads. This initial encounter spurred these girls to advocate among their friends and peers for menstrual hygiene and to educate about the empowerment and dignity that come with hygiene.

Another story that deeply humbles me is the awareness I brought to a group of girls whose parents worked as trash pickers. These girls were unaware of what to expect during menstruation and how to maintain hygiene with their limited resources. I realized that education alone wouldn’t suffice, and they would need monthly supplies. As a first step towards their health and dignity, we partnered with a supplier to provide them with supplies at a reduced cost