The beginning of menstruation means the start of a new phase with new challenges in the life of adolescent girls. Yet, numerous girls face stigma, harassment and social exclusion during menstruation.
In underprivileged communities, low awareness of safe menstrual practices and limited access to necessary sanitary napkins places girls at a high risk of many physical and mental health issues.
To address these, JCI Dhaka Cosmopolitan initiated the first phase of 'Project Anonnya' on 29th January 2023 at Shantibagh High School in collaboration with Shaathi Foundation.
The primary objective of Project Anonnya is to conduct initiatives targeted towards women's empowerment. Access to proper menstrual kits and awareness of menstrual health and hygiene practices will empower girls and women and give them a better quality of life.
During the project, JCI Dhaka Cosmopolitan, in collaboration with Shaathi Foundation, distributed 200 menstrual kits to students and staff of Shantibagh High School.
Each kit consisted of 3 reusable pads, two underwear and one soap. Each pad can be used for up to 8 months, so one kit should support a girl for one year.
Following this, a session was conducted by healthcare professionals to educate girls about safe menstrual health and hygiene practices. The session also focused on addressing taboo mentalities around menstruation. Girls were highly encouraged not to skip school whilst their menstruation by using proper sanitary napkins provided to them.
The 2023 President of JCI Dhaka Cosmopolitan, Ms Samiha Akhter, was present at the event alongside their Vice President Mr Rashedul Alam Sarker and General Member Khondker Nasif Akhter.
Junior Chamber International (JCI) is the world's leading global network of young active citizens and is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, in the US. Currently, there are over 5000 members actively participating in JCI Bangladesh for the development and betterment of society.
JCI Dhaka Cosmopolitan is one of the most renowned chapters of JCI Bangladesh. It was established in 2012 and completed ten years last year.
JCI Dhaka Cosmopolitan has completed numerous projects throughout the past ten years focusing on women empowerment, mental health, civil rights, legal advocacy, etc. It is a dynamic network of young professionals and entrepreneurs.