Her Story

In the small community of Gashora, Rwanda, a quiet revolution began with a simple mission to restore dignity and empower young girls through access to menstrual health resources. The Pad a Girl Outreach Program brought together volunteers, educators, and community leaders to address a challenge that had long been overlooked period poverty.

Breaking the Silence

For many girls in Gashora, menstruation had been a source of shame and disruption. Without access to sanitary products, they often missed school, limiting their education and opportunities. The outreach program created safe spaces where girls could learn, ask questions, and speak openly about their experiences breaking the silence that had weighed heavily on their confidence.

More Than Pads

The program was not only about distributing sanitary pads, but also about equipping girls with knowledge. Workshops taught menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, and self-care, while also involving boys to build understanding and reduce stigma. This holistic approach helped shift cultural perspectives, showing that menstrual health is a community issue, not just a women’s issue.

Stories of Change

The impact was immediate and heartfelt. Girls who once feared missing school spoke with pride about being able to attend classes consistently. Mothers expressed relief knowing their daughters had the resources they themselves never had. Teachers noticed a rise in participation and confidence among their students. These stories became proof that small interventions can ignite lasting change.

A Future Empowered

Her story is not just about one girl, but about an entire community rising together. The Pad a Girl Outreach Program in Gashora planted seeds of hope, resilience, and empowerment. It reminded everyone that when a girl is given the dignity she deserves, she gains the freedom to dream, learn, and lead. And when girls thrive, communities thrive.