Breaking the Stigma: Students Take Action to Raise Awareness on Menstrual Health

A group of ICS High School students are bringing greater awareness around menstrual health through their community outreach efforts. 

Our student-run service group Bloom, in partnership with non profit Mela for Her, has continued its commitment to supporting menstrual health education within our wider community through two meaningful initiatives.

Last month, dozens of maintenance staff across campus each received a pack of two pairs of menstrual underwear, with the aim of providing practical, comfortable, and sustainable menstrual products to the women who contribute so much to our ICS community.

Bloom also provided a kit of four reusable sanitary pads to Grade 8 girls from our neighboring school, Mekdela. The girls also joined the Bloom team for a screening of the movie ‘Little Women,’ creating a meaningful afternoon centered around girlhood, empowerment, and community. 

Beyond the distribution of sanitary products itself, the event was an opportunity to promote healthy menstrual management, reduce stigma around periods, and encourage sustainable practices.

These moments were filled with gratitude, meaningful conversations, and connection, said Bloom supervisor Pascaline Dacharry. 

“We are especially grateful for the generous support of our ICS community — teachers, parents, and students — whose contributions helped make these projects possible. A special thank you goes to Grade 3 students, Naomi, Maya, and Helina, who helped raise funds through the sale of their beautiful handmade jewelry."

"We are incredibly proud of the Bloom students for their dedication and thankful to Mela For Her for their partnership and support,” she said. 

Bloom will also be hosting a Volleyball tournament on Saturday 30 May from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM to raise funds for a girls' home. Grades 8-11 are welcome to participate in addition to parents and teachers, with a maximum of 2 teams per Grade and a maximum of 10 players per team. Player registration fee is 450 ETB. Please make sure to sign up here.