Imagine being a young girl in rural Bangladesh, navigating the challenges of adolescence without access to proper menstrual hygiene products or even the knowledge to manage your period safely. For many students at Bot Toli High School in Birganj, Dinajpur, this was a daily reality until JCI Dhaka Founders stepped in with a heartfelt initiative to change lives.
In Bangladesh, only 29% of women use sanitary napkins, leaving most to rely on old cloths or other unsafe alternatives. This isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to serious health issues like infections, reproductive problems, or even cancer. Worse, the stigma around periods often keeps girls from school, limiting their dreams and opportunities.
JCI Dhaka Founders decided to tackle this head-on with a menstrual hygiene program that’s as much about empowerment as it is about health. Here’s what they did:
- Handed out 200 sanitary pads to students, giving them the tools to manage their periods with confidence.
- Set up a PAD Booth right at the school so girls can access menstrual products whenever they need them, no questions asked.
- Hosted a warm, open conversation with over 100 girls, joined by school staff, to talk about periods, bust myths, and share practical tips for staying healthy.
With support from Lightshore Network and Caretutors, the event felt like a community coming together. Local leaders and teachers showed up, cheering on the girls and reinforcing that menstrual health is something to talk about openly, not hide.
A Step Toward Dignity
One of the organizers from JCI Dhaka Founders shared their passion: “This is about more than just pads, it’s about giving girls the freedom to go to school, to learn, and to dream without fear or shame. We want them to know they’re supported.”
The energy at Bot Toli High School was electric. Girls who once felt embarrassed about their periods left the session smiling, armed with knowledge and resources. The PAD Booth stands as a quiet but powerful reminder that their needs matter.
A Ripple Effect for Change
This initiative isn’t a one-off. JCI Dhaka Founders is already planning more programs to reach other communities, bringing the same mix of care, education, and action. Their work aligns with big goals like better health and gender equality, proving that small, thoughtful steps can create lasting change.
In a country where talking about periods can still feel taboo, JCI Dhaka Founders is showing that change starts with compassion and courage. By giving girls the tools and confidence to manage their menstrual health, they’re not just improving lives, they’re helping build a future where every girl can thrive.
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