Chanchal: Youth Leader 

Meet Chanchal an example of how to build the essential connection between the youth and adults when discussions are ongoing on such sensitive subjects. From high school she has been participating in social work and community engagement activities, particularly those related to the safety of girls and women. Chanchal responded to the call for Youth Leaders, and was even more enthusiastic to work once she realised that the project was to be executed in her own school.
A 4-day training process on becoming a youth leader which included capacity building, communication and presentation skills was successfully completed and as the staff and some of the younger students also knew Chanchal from her school days, the experience of working with the school was relatively smooth with no challenges.

In her own words

“Initially I was worried if I would meet the standards of the project, if I would be able to meet my own standards as well. I am very proud of the school I come from, and want to give back to the place I learnt so much from. There are lots of issues surrounding periods- girls don’t know what to do, they throw pads without covering them, and there is so much shame and embarrassment associated with it. I am glad that I can bring about change on this topic! Even in my own life I have started talking more openly with my mother about periods, and have shared pain-reducing tips with my younger sisters. Thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity!”