The Power of Knowing: Claudia’s School Transformation

By Ernestina Esinam Glikpo, Communications Manager

At just 16 years old, Claudia, a student in her final year at Dantie Islamic Junior High School in the Ullo Traditional Area, carries big dreams, yet for a long time, her confidence in the classroom was held back by a challenge she could not control.

Before Self-Help International (SHI) intervened, Claudia struggled with managing her menstrual cycle. Without proper education, she never knew when her period would start. On several occasions, she stained her uniform in class, leaving her embarrassed and distracted from learning.

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Claudia is less distracted at school now.

Everything changed when SHI distributed reusable sanitary pads at her school. Before receiving the pads, Claudia and her classmates participated in a menstrual hygiene education session. For the first time, Claudia learned how menstruation works, how to calculate her cycle, and how to prepare ahead of time.

“That education helped me understand my body,” she shares. “Now I can calculate my days, and I don’t stain myself in class anymore.”

The reusable sanitary pad has also eased a heavy financial burden. For Claudia, getting money for school is already difficult; affording disposable pads was often impossible. The reusable pad now gives her a reliable, long-term solution and peace of mind.

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Because of the Teen Girls Club, Claudia now understands her body better.

Today, Claudia walks into class with renewed confidence and happiness. She feels prepared, focused, and free to learn.

“Thank you for supporting us,” she says with a smile. “You have helped me more than you know.”

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