Saasha Gajjaer surrounded by girls and boys, all beaming with pride and confidence after the successful menstrual hygiene session conducted by Pinkishe Foundation.

Bridging the Gap: Inclusive Menstrual Health Awareness Program

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Pinkishe Foundation

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July 18, 2024

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July 18, 2024

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Nava Vadaj GJ School No. 9 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat

On the 18th of July, 2024, Pinkishe Foundation organized a transformative menstrual hygiene literacy camp and a free pads donation camp at Nava Vadaj GJ School No. 9 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The event, led by dedicated volunteer Saasha Gajjaer, also the  organizer of the Kali project, saw a significant turnout with 106 girls and 97 boys in attendance. The primary objective was to educate young students about menstrual hygiene and distribute free sanitary pads to the girls.

The Learning Session

In previous sessions, the focus was mainly on educating girls about menstruation. However, this time, Saasha seized the opportunity to involve boys in the discussion, gaining a crucial perspective on the issue. Engaging both boys and girls, Saasha addressed the pervasive stigma and misconceptions surrounding menstruation. Initially, the girls were shy and hesitant to participate openly in discussions about menstruation, while the boys displayed a lack of sensitivity, often resorting to whistling, passing comments, and exhibiting indecent behavior.

Unveiling Stigma: A Poignant Encounter

A poignant moment unfolded when Saasha encountered a 12-year-old girl who approached her anonymously. The girl revealed that she was bullied because she started menstruating early. Sitting at the back, visibly ashamed and hesitant to speak up, she quietly asked about green discharge, expressing worry about its implications. Saasha offered her reassurance, advising her gently to seek medical advice if she remained concerned, while also comforting her that such concerns were normal and manageable.

Observations

Additionally, Saasha discovered a troubling situation: the pad dispenser in the bathroom was empty, a persistent issue for months. This underscored the ongoing challenges that girls face in accessing necessary menstrual hygiene products, affecting their comfort and confidence during menstruation. Many girls were hesitant to accept the sanitary pads being distributed. Some even went so far as to hide the pads immediately upon receiving them, indicating a deep-seated stigma and embarrassment associated with menstruation.

Facing Misconceptions: From Questions to Answers

Throughout the camp, common questions surfaced: Why does your stomach/head/back hurt during periods? Why do you feel dizzy? What causes green discharge? Why do we wear bras? These questions, once whispered in embarrassment, found voice in the safe space created by the Pinkishe Foundation, promoting understanding and dispelling myths.

Challenges Addressed, Progress Made

Despite initial hesitations, the impact was profound. Many girls, initially reluctant, eventually accepted pads, their actions a testament to the transformative power of education and empathy. The Pinkishe Foundation’s dedication to breaking taboos and promoting menstrual health education left an indelible mark, empowering young girls to manage their periods confidently and with dignity.

A Step Towards Change

Beyond education, the camp marked a significant step towards creating a supportive environment for young girls. It underscored the urgent need for continued education and accessible menstrual hygiene management in schools and communities. Saasha Gajjaer’s leadership and the Kali project exemplify a commitment to women's health and hygiene, striving to make a lasting impact and foster a more informed and supportive community.

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