Meet Mary Wanjiku
Background:
Mary Wanjiku is a bright and determined 14-year-old girl living in rural Kenya. Her dream is to become a teacher and help others in her community. However, her aspirations were threatened by the challenges of period poverty.
The Challenge:
Before joining our program, Mary struggled with period poverty, which often caused her to miss school during her menstruation. The lack of sanitary products made it difficult for her to manage her periods comfortably, leading to missed classes and falling behind in her studies.
The Change:
With support from our initiative, Mary began receiving a monthly supply of sanitary products. This crucial support allowed her to attend school regularly, including during her period, without the fear of missing classes or falling behind.
The Impact:
- Consistent Attendance: Mary’s attendance has stabilized, and she now attends school every day, including during her period.
- Improved Academic Performance: With fewer missed days, Mary’s academic performance has improved. She is more engaged in her studies and actively participates in class activities.
- Renewed Confidence: The access to sanitary products has significantly boosted Mary’s confidence. She no longer feels embarrassed about her menstruation and is more focused on her education and future goals.
Looking Ahead:
Mary is excited about her future and remains committed to her dream of becoming a teacher. Her story is a powerful example of how addressing period poverty can transform a girl’s life, enabling her to pursue her education and realize her potential.
By sharing Mary’s story, we hope to highlight the crucial impact of providing sanitary products and the difference it makes in empowering girls to achieve their dreams.