Scouts Champion Menstrual Dignity
On October 11, 2024, the Mashonaland Scout Province marked the International Day of the Girl Child in a powerful and practical way—by launching a pad donation campaign under the theme “More Than Just a Pad.” The campaign aimed to raise awareness about menstrual health and provide sanitary pads to girls in need, especially those who miss school because they cannot afford proper sanitary products.
The idea for the project came from listening to real stories in our communities—stories of girls using unsafe alternatives like tissue paper, newspapers, or even rags during their periods. These were not distant or unusual cases; they were experiences happening in our neighborhoods, in the schools we visit, and among the people we interact with every day. As Scouts committed to service, we knew we had to step up and do something about it.
With a passionate team of Scouts, leaders, and volunteers, we began by mobilizing support. We created flyers, shared messages on social media, and reached out to local organizations, churches, and businesses for donations. The response was encouraging. People were willing to help—some donated sanitary pads, others gave money, and many spread the word. The support showed that the community cared and was ready to fight the stigma around menstruation.
After gathering enough supplies, we visited schools and youth centers, where we not only distributed pads but also held open, respectful conversations about menstrual hygiene. It was heartwarming to see girls smile—not just because they received pads, but because someone finally acknowledged what they go through every month. We also engaged boys in the conversation, helping them understand that menstruation is natural and should never be a source of shame or isolation.
Throughout the project, one thing became very clear: small actions can create big change. Donating a pad may seem simple, but for a girl without access to one, it can mean the difference between missing school or attending with confidence. For many Scouts involved, this experience opened our eyes to the kind of impact we can make when we pay attention to the needs around us and act with compassion.
Looking back, we are proud of what we achieved—not because of the numbers, but because of the dignity we helped restore. This was not just about pads; it was about giving girls the freedom to be themselves, to learn, to dream, and to thrive without fear or shame.