In May 2024, Youngpearl Women and Girls Initiative spearheaded a landmark intervention, #ProjectEndPeriodPoverty, at Amazing Grace School in UDU community, Delta State, Nigeria. This crucial event was dedicated to educating over 100 adolescent girls on vital aspects of sexual and reproductive health, menstruation, and safe menstrual hygiene practices. The initiative aimed to address period poverty—a significant barrier to girls’ education and well-being—by providing comprehensive education and essential resources.

 

The intervention began with in-depth educational sessions led by Youngpearl’s expert facilitators. These sessions provided detailed explanations of the menstrual cycle and the physiological changes associated with it, ensuring the girls had a thorough understanding of their bodies. The facilitators also covered safe menstrual hygiene practices, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness to prevent infections and maintain health during menstruation.

 

One of the key components of the program was teaching proper disposal methods for sanitary products. The girls were shown environmentally friendly disposal techniques, promoting sustainability alongside hygiene. Additionally, practical demonstrations on how to correctly fix a sanitary pad on their panties were conducted. This hands-on training was designed to boost the girls’ confidence in managing their periods effectively. 

 

The sessions were interactive, encouraging the girls to ask questions and dispel common myths and misconceptions about menstruation. By creating an open and supportive environment, Youngpearl ensured that the girls felt comfortable discussing their experiences and concerns.

 

At the conclusion of the educational sessions, each girl received a menstrual hygiene kit from Youngpearl. These kits included sanitary pads, soap, hand sanitizer, and educational leaflets on menstrual health. The distribution of these kits was a critical aspect of the intervention, providing the girls with the necessary tools to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence.

 

The impact of #ProjectEndPeriodPoverty at Amazing Grace School has been transformative. The girls left the intervention not only with essential resources but also with a newfound sense of empowerment. They now have the knowledge and skills to manage their menstrual health proactively, reducing absenteeism and enabling them to participate fully in their education.

 

Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers and parents have noticed significant changes in the girls’ attitudes towards menstruation. The intervention has fostered open conversations about menstrual health, breaking down cultural stigmas and encouraging a more supportive environment for girls. 

 

Moreover, the initiative has highlighted the importance of addressing period poverty as a means to achieving broader gender equality. By ensuring that girls have the resources and knowledge they need to manage their periods, Youngpearl is removing a significant barrier to education and helping to create a future where no girl has to miss school because of her period.

 

Youngpearl’s #ProjectEndPeriodPoverty intervention at Amazing Grace School exemplifies our commitment to empowering girls and promoting gender equality. By tackling period poverty head-on, we are making strides towards a more equitable society where every girl has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.