Budgam: Breaking the silence around a topic long considered taboo, Azadi Project conducted a Menstrual Health Awareness & Education Workshop at Z Academy school in Budgam, engaging nearly 60 adolescent girls in an open and interactive session.
Launched in early 2023 by The Azadi Project in partnership with New York–based Libra Philanthropies, the Azadi Leadership Programme equips women and youth from refugee and marginalised communities with employability and leadership skills. The initiative wants to address intersectional barriers and serve as a career springboard through internship and employment opportunities across industries, with operations in New Delhi and Kashmir.
Organised under the initiative “From Menarche to Menopause: Ishq Sehat Apnav”, the workshop aimed to build awareness around menstruation, hygiene practices and bodily changes during adolescence. In a region like Kashmir, where conversations around menstrual health often remain confined to whispers, the session created a rare safe space for young girls to ask questions without fear or embarrassment.
Students discussed menstruation, menstrual hygiene management and common myths associated with periods, while facilitators emphasised dignity, self-care and confidence as essential aspects of women’s health.
For many participants, the workshop marked a first-of-its-kind experience.
“This is the first time I’ve seen a workshop like this in our school. Before this session, I believed many myths about periods. I was told not to eat certain foods like tomatoes, and even that making dots on walls using menstrual blood could control how long periods last. Today I learnt that these are myths and that menstruation is a natural process,” a student said, adding that the session helped normalise discussions around periods.
The workshop also highlighted that menstrual health is closely linked to overall well-being, education and basic rights. Students were sensitised to the idea that access to hygiene, safe facilities and accurate information is part of their right to health, especially in Kashmir, where stigma often prevents open discussion.
“Now I understand my body better and know how to take care of my health during periods. I feel confident enough to guide my younger sister and friends, and I hope we have more sessions like this,” another participant said.
Hosted by Kaisar Ali under the Azadi Alumni Impact Fund, the initiative was welcomed by school authorities, who stressed upon the importance of such awareness programmes during the crucial stage of adolescent growth.
The Azadi Project works with women and youth in the Global South at the intersection of sustainable development goals, gender equality, youth leadership, climate action and sustainable communities.
“In India, we work with several marginalised groups. In essence, Azadi is dedicated to creating a holistic support system that addresses the diverse needs of vulnerable and migrant populations, spanning mental health, gender empowerment, and skill development. We have also impacted and supported women from Afghanistan, Iraq, Myanmar, Niger, Syria, Ukraine, and Yemen. We strive to contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of the communities we serve,” said Kaisar Ali.
