Nikita

Nikita, 14 lives in Kathmandu and attends a Toybox supported education project. Here, she shares how the project has supported her to not only grow in confidence, but also learn about menstrual hygeine and period health.

She shares how she intially became involved with the project;

"My family migrated from a village to Kathmandu city for better life opportunities. However, life was hard here. My family had a hard time surviving and providing our basic needs. So, my sister and I spent time with my friends in the streets. We hoped that if we tagged along, we would be able to earn some money too. I had the fear that I too would have to drop out of school like other children. I shared this with my friends and eventually connected with the project through my friends."

Support through education and menstrual health

Through her involvement in the project, run by Toybox's local partner, SathSath, Nikita has been supported with her education and attends sessions at the project's learning centre after school on topics such as menstrual health and hygeine. At the learning centre she also has access to sanitary products, helping her better manage her periods.

Pictured below: Nikita at the project's Learning Centre

Like many girls, Nikita has faced cultural stigma and practical challenges around menstruation. She explains;

"There are some old beliefs and cultural traditions we need to follow in our village - so I pray I don't get my periods whenever I go to my village. In my culture, girls are not allowed in the kitchen, to do puja (worship God) or go to the temple or holy areas during our period.”

Since joining the project in Kathmandu, Nikita’s confidence and knowledge have transformed. She now understands her body and menstruation in a new way. She shares,

“A period is natural process for girls. I understand the menstrual cycle and how to take care of myself. It has changed my perspective. Before I used to feel shameful to be on my period.”

She has also become more open and confident discussing the topic. She shares;

“Since being a part the project, I have been more open about periods - even with my male friends.”

Using her voice

Nikita is now using what she has learned through the project to encourage others. She continues;

“I want to advise all girls not to be shy about menstruation. All girls go through it so it is not something to be scared of.”

She also has a clear vision for change, commenting;

“If I were the Prime Minister of my country, I would provide free sanitary pads since they are expensive. I believe basic needs like sanitary pads should be free all over the country.”

looking to the future

Reflecting on her life and future, Nikita looks up to her mother. She concludes;

"My mother is my role model because she takes care of us even when our father left us. I want to be independent and to look after her too. Since being connected with SathSath, my mother's said that her worries about my growth and development have reduced. She no longer has to worry about me following the wrong path. She is happy that I am being guided for the better."

Pictured below: Nikita taking part in a menstrual hygeine activity at the project in Kathmandu.