Bhoomi is a 15-year-old girl from a remote village in Maharashtra. She is a bright student who loves to learn new things and dreams of becoming a teacher someday. But her life was not always easy. She faced many challenges and barriers due to the stigma and myths surrounding menstruation in her community.

When Bhoomi got her first period, she was scared and confused. She did not know what was happening to her body and why she had to hide it from everyone. She felt ashamed and isolated. She had to use old rags as pads and wash them secretly. She could not go to school or play with her friends during those days. She was told that she was impure and dirty, and that she had to follow many restrictions and rituals to avoid bringing bad luck to her family.

Bhoomi was not alone. Many girls in her village and across India face similar challenges and discrimination due to lack of awareness and education about menstruation. According to a study by UNESCO, 2.3 crore girls drop out of school at the onset of their periods and 71% of adolescent girls in India remain unaware of menstruation till they get their first period. This affects their health, education, dignity, and empowerment.

But Bhoomi was determined to change this situation. She wanted to break the silence and shame around periods and help other girls like her to live freely and confidently. She found an opportunity to do so when she joined a health club run by Kokan NGO, a leading NGO that works for the rights of underprivileged children and women in Maharashtra.

Through the health club, Bhoomi learned about the biological and scientific aspects of menstruation, the importance of using safe and hygienic sanitary products, and the ways to manage her periods with ease and comfort. She also learned about her rights and responsibilities as a girl and a citizen. She gained confidence and courage to speak up and challenge the myths and taboos that surrounded her.

Bhoomi became a leader and a role model in her community. She started sharing her knowledge and experience with her peers, parents, teachers, and elders. She encouraged other girls to join the health club and to use sanitary pads, which were provided by Kokan NGO. She also advocated for better facilities and support for girls in her school and village, such as separate toilets, water supply, disposal bins, and awareness sessions. She participated in various campaigns and events organized by Kokan NGO , such as rallies, street plays, workshops, and competitions, to spread the message of period pride and empowerment.

Bhoomi’s efforts have made a positive impact on her life and the lives of many others. She has improved her health and hygiene, and has reduced her chances of infections and diseases. She has continued her education and has improved her academic performance. She has gained respect and recognition from her family and community. She has inspired and motivated other girls to follow her example and to pursue their dreams.

Bhoomi is unstoppable. She is not afraid of her periods. She is proud of them. She is proud of being a girl. She is proud of being a champion of change