At the African Leadership Academy, a group of passionate young students noticed a problem that was too big to ignore—period poverty. During one of their leadership classes, they began discussing the impact of menstruation on girls’ education and health. With surveys revealing that 60% of their peers knew someone who couldn’t afford menstrual products and 80% had seen discarded pads littering dumping sites, they realised how urgent the problem was.

 

Instead of just talking about it, these students took action. They created Period., an initiative dedicated to providing a sustainable solution to menstrual health challenges. Their mission was simple yet powerful: to produce reusable sanitary pads made from locally available materials, reducing waste and ensuring that every girl could live with dignity.

Why Period. Matters

For many girls across Africa, not having access to menstrual products means missing school, feeling embarrassed, or even risking infections. Disposable pads also create significant waste, which harms the environment. The Period. team wanted to change that by offering reusable pads that are washable, affordable, and long-lasting.

 

“Reusable pads make a big difference,” says one team member. “They keep girls in school, save families money, and lower the risk of health issues like infections. Plus, they’re better for the planet!”

 

The pads are made from soft, durable fabrics like cotton and fleece, stitched together to provide comfort and protection. The Period. team didn’t just stop at creating the product—they’ve been working with communities to teach women and girls how to make the pads themselves.

 

The Power of Community

For Period., working hand-in-hand with communities is key. By talking to schools, churches, and women’s groups, the team learns about the specific needs of the people they serve. They don’t just deliver solutions—they co-create them.

 

“We want the communities we work with to feel empowered,” the team shares. “That’s why we involve them in every step of the process, from learning how to make the pads to understanding how to maintain good menstrual hygiene. It’s about building a network where everyone feels supported and heard.”

 

Big Help from Changemakers

As their project grew, the Period. team joined Ashoka Changemakers, a platform for young innovators who want to change the world. Through Changemakers, they connected with inspiring individuals, like the founder of a company that makes biodegradable diapers. These conversations sparked new ideas, such as exploring different materials for their pads and finding ways to make their project more sustainable.

Being part of Changemakers also opened doors to funding and collaborations. “It’s not just about the money,” the team explains. “It’s about the community—having mentors and peers who help you see what’s possible and guide you through challenges.”

What’s Next for Period.?

The team behind Period. has big dreams. Over the next year, they plan to host workshops that teach more communities how to make reusable pads. They also hope to partner with organisations like the African Leadership Academy and Afrofeminism to expand their reach and impact.

 

“We want to take Period. beyond what we imagined,” they say. “Our goal is to create a movement where menstrual health is no longer a barrier for anyone.”

 

Advice for Future Changemakers

If you’ve ever dreamed of solving a problem in your community, the Period. team has some advice for you:

• Start small, but dream big.

• Listen to the people you’re helping—they know what they need.

• Don’t be afraid of failing; it’s part of learning.

• Work with others, because collaboration can lead to amazing ideas.

• And most importantly, take risks!

 

A Movement for Change

Period. is more than just a project—it’s proof that even small actions can spark big change. With their reusable pads and commitment to empowering communities, this team of young changemakers is showing the world how innovative ideas can make a lasting impact.

 

For parents and kids reading this story, the message is clear: no one is too young to make a difference.