A Day of Impact and Awareness
Team TGF was honored to pay a visit to the close-knit tribal community of Gangumarla Tanda, nestled in the heart of Kadthal, Rangareddy district. With a population of approximately 886 residents, including about 300 females, the predominant language spoken here is Banjara. Led by Ms. Rohini Naidu, the visionary founder of The Girl Foundation, accompanied by our dedicated interns, we engaged in heartfelt conversations with the villagers. Our focus was on nurturing young girls, imparting knowledge about menstrual hygiene, and instilling a sense of empowerment among them. As an expression of our commitment, we distributed organic period kits to the women. This endeavor left us profoundly humbled and enriched.
Engaging with the Community
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the village locals. The genuine curiosity and openness in their eyes were a testament to their readiness for change. We gathered in the community center, a humble space that soon became a hub of knowledge and empowerment.
Understanding Period Poverty
Rohini, with her charismatic and empathetic approach, began the session by discussing the often-overlooked issue of period poverty. Many women and girls in the village had been using cloth, paper, and other unsafe materials during their menstrual cycles. We explained the health risks associated with these practices and highlighted the importance of using sanitary pads.
Promoting Sustainable Menstruation
Our campaign was not just about distributing sanitary pads but also about promoting sustainable menstruation. We introduced the concept of reusable pads and menstrual cups, demonstrating their benefits and usage. The initial skepticism slowly gave way to understanding as we showed them how these options were not only healthier but also more economical in the long run.
Proper Disposal and Waste Management
A significant part of our session focused on the proper disposal of menstrual waste. Partnering with Rotomakers Hyd, we demonstrated environmentally friendly ways to dispose of used pads. We also discussed the importance of maintaining hygiene and managing menstrual waste effectively to prevent pollution and health hazards.
Interactive Sessions and Q&A
The highlight of our visit was the interactive Q&A session. The women and girls of Gangumarla Tanda were eager to learn, asking questions and sharing their experiences. We listened, empathized, and provided solutions tailored to their unique challenges. It was a moment of mutual learning and respect, reinforcing our belief in the power of community-driven change.
A Step Towards Change
As we concluded our visit, the sense of accomplishment was palpable. We left behind not just sanitary pads and educational materials, but also hope and a sense of empowerment. The women of Gangumarla Tanda now had the knowledge and resources to take charge of their menstrual health, fostering a ripple effect that would benefit future generations.
Gratitude and Future Plans
We are immensely grateful to Rotomakers Hyd for their sponsorship and support, making this initiative possible. Our journey does not end here; this is just the beginning. We plan to revisit Gangumarla Tanda and other villages, continuing our mission to eradicate period poverty and promote sustainable menstruation.
Join Us
To all our supporters and readers, we invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can make a difference, one village at a time!
