A Walk Through the Centre

Before the session, I was taken on a walk through the centre. It was heartening to witness the diligent record-keeping ensuring the maintenance of cleanliness—a crucial aspect, considering the community it serves does not have toilets at home. These spaces are more than just sanitation facilities; they offer a safe environment, encourage hygiene, and even provide areas for breastfeeding mothers.

With the available open space, the centre has expanded to offer digital literacy, stitching, and beauty courses for the women of the Jahangirpuri and Naraina communities. This initiative not only empowers women economically but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility within the community.

The Power of One now Sahas Bharat Read More here>>

The #LetsTalkPeriod Session

The session welcomed 30 incredible women from across Delhi—all of them managing these public toilets turned safe spaces. Over 90 minutes, we dived deep into menstrual health, aiming to educate, dispel myths, and introduce sustainable solutions. Using presentations, videos, and a silicone reproductive model, we discussed:

• The anatomy of menstruation – understanding flow, cycles, and the natural processes of the body.
• Common menstrual ailments and remedies – equipping them with knowledge to manage their health better.
• Myth-busting and cultural alignment – referencing temples, cultural events, and festivals across India that celebrate menstruation, reaffirming its sacredness.
• Introduction to the menstrual cup – explaining its benefits, usage, and maintenance as a sustainable alternative to pads and tampons.

Each participant was gifted a menstrual cup, making them ambassadors of sustainable menstruation in their communities. The enthusiasm was overwhelming, with the women eager to take this knowledge forward and advocate for better menstrual health in their circles.

A Ripple Effect of Change

The feedback was deeply moving. One of the women said, “Thank you for gifting us life.” Many of them are first-time earners, and their confidence is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and economic independence. I was told that the centre sees a daily footfall of 500 women and children, making it a crucial hub for driving change at the grassroots level.

As we posed in front of the toilet—something one wouldn’t traditionally think of as a celebratory moment—it struck me how spaces evolve when they are filled with purpose, dignity, and empowerment.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. With 30 women now equipped with knowledge and sustainable solutions, the impact will extend far beyond this single session. The commitment to menstrual health, sustainability, and community-driven change continues, and I am grateful to be part of this journey.

To all the changemakers—thank you. Let’s keep the conversation going.

About the Session Conductor – Simply Suparnaa

This session was conducted by Simply Suparnaa, a passionate advocate for gender sensitivity, sustainable menstrual hygiene, and social impact. She is the founder of the #LetsTalkPeriod movement, working to normalize conversations around menstrual health and empower communities with sustainable solutions.

Beyond menstrual health advocacy, she is also the founder-curator of SABERA (Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards & Summit), which recognizes impactful social and business initiatives across India. With over two decades of experience in media, advertising, and cause-driven initiatives, she continues to drive awareness and action towards women’s health, sanitation, and community empowerment.

The post #Let’sTalkPeriod: A Session on Sustainable Menstrual Hygiene at Garima Grih appeared first on Woman Endangered.

The event was hosted at the exclusive Directors Club Lounge in Ambience Mall, Vasant Kunj—a hidden gem that I explored during a short tour courtesy of PVR representatives. However, the heart of the experience was the interaction at the conference facility, where I shared a delicious five-course meal with eleven inspiring women managing Delhi’s ‘Pink Toilets’ turned ‘Garima Grihs’.

Read more about SABERA Awardee and guest of Honour Chhaya Sharma

The Pink Toilets Initiative: Recognized by SABERA

The Pink Toilets initiative, honored by the SABERA Awards, is a stellar example of how public-private partnerships can drive real change. What began as a civic facility for women has been transformed into safe, clean spaces and hubs for empowerment under PVR Nest’s guidance.

Managed by an inspiring group of women like Kiran, Kavita, Babita, Pooja, Laxmi, Chandini, Anjum, Monika, Mithilesh, and Reena, these centers now offer skilling courses in sewing, beauty, and hygiene. They’ve also become safe spaces for breastfeeding and community education, impacting neighboring areas by promoting cleanliness and health awareness.

Lakshmi, who oversees the RK Puram center, reflected on her journey:
“Initially, I would burst into tears when people in the community taunted me for asking them to keep their surroundings clean. Even my family questioned why I wanted to work in a toilet. But thanks to the persistence and encouragement of my cohort leaders, I persevered. Today, I am respected for the work I do.”

These centers have not only provided a source of income for these women—many of whom are now the primary earners in their families—but also created safe, welcoming spaces that benefit entire communities.

PVR Nest’s Power of One Program: Driving Social Impact

The Power of One program by PVR Nest highlights the potential of grassroots initiatives to create a ripple effect of positive change. This public-private partnership focuses on uplifting women and girls from vulnerable urban slum communities by providing skilling opportunities and socio-economic advancement tools.

The program’s WeRise Changemaker initiative has been specially designed to build leadership and communication skills for community leaders. Members of the Pink Toilets initiative participated in the first edition of this program, which is helping them develop the confidence and knowledge to become role models and changemakers.

I was honored to lead the opening session, “Every Woman is a Leader,” where I shared insights about harnessing inner strength to inspire and influence positive change in one’s community. It was an engaging and humbling experience, with each woman’s journey serving as a testament to resilience and empowerment.

A Day of Inspiration

The day concluded with meaningful conversations over a sumptuous five-course meal at the Directors Lounge. I returned home deeply inspired by the courage and determination of these women, who are breaking barriers and creating ripples of change in their communities.

The Pink Toilets initiative, recognized by the SABERA Awards, stands as a powerful testament to how women when given the right tools and support, can transform not only their own lives but also the lives of those around them.

SABERA 2024 are scheduled for December 11th at the India Habitat Centre, where more such stories of Impact will be celebrated. To attend register and reserve delegate passes here

The post Empowering Women One Pink toilet at a time appeared first on Woman Endangered.