Kgetsi Ya Tsi Project
The Kgetsi Ya Tsi Experience: Breaking the Stigma, One Conversation at a Time
From November 2023 to March 2024, PHA teamed up with Kgetsi Ya Tsie Secondary School to launch our pilot SOS MENHEMA program, our way of saying, “periods are normal, and it’s time we treat them that way!”
So, what was it all about?
Our goal was to:
- Shine a light on menstrual hygiene, mental health, and reproductive health.
- Empower teachers and community leaders to better support girls during their periods.
- Provide reusable menstrual products, because sustainability matters.
- Promote eco-friendly period choices that are kind to both people and the planet.
What We Did:
Through focus groups and workshops, we brought together girls and boys aged 14–16 to chat about periods.
Together, we explored topics like:
- Breaking stigma around menstruation.
- Improving access to products.
- Understanding the environmental impact of menstrual waste.
- Linking menstrual health with mental well-being.
We also handed out reusable pads and ran practical sessions on how to use and care for them. But most importantly, we created a safe space for open, honest conversations with students, teachers, and even families, helping to make periods less taboo and more understood.
What Worked Well:
- Taking a holistic approach that connects menstrual health, mental health, and the environment.
- Building strong partnerships with schools, volunteers, and the local community.
- Watching young people step up as peer educators and advocates for change.
The SOS MENHEMA pilot was just the beginning! PHA continues to build on this momentum by expanding the program to reach more schools and communities, ensuring every girl has the confidence, knowledge, and resources to manage her period with pride.
