Afroz Begum, a school teacher in Hingoli, Maharashtra, witnessed how silence and misconceptions around menstruation affected the confidence and well-being of young girls. Through the menstrual health program, she helped start conversations that reached far beyond the classroom.
By engaging both students and parents, the program encouraged families to view menstruation as a natural process rather than a taboo. Girls gained access to menstrual health education and eco-friendly sanitary pads, enabling them to manage their periods with confidence and dignity.
The impact was visible. More girls attended school during menstruation, absenteeism decreased, and families became more supportive and informed. What began as a school-based initiative grew into a community-wide shift, creating a more open and supportive environment where girls can learn, thrive, and look forward to a brighter future.