Semira hussen, a remarkable 14-year-old girl is a 5th grade student in bisiqe primary school. a year ago, her body experienced a new change in her life –her first period. like many young. Girls, semira felt isolated “ i was in pain and not knowing how to handle this made me feel scared and alone. that’s when i decided to tell my aunt” you now can see comfort in her face coming from sharing her experiences. “i am happy that i am a member of the girls club we talk openly and so i know that i have a supportive environment.
Her journey as an ambassador for the wash (water, sanitation, and hygiene) club in her School is also a tail for her remarkable journy. “after receiving training alongside my teachers, i was elected as an ambassador.” Entrusted with the responsibility of being a role model for her peers, her duties included keeping the school clean and coordinating efforts among students to maintain a clean Environment.
Beyond her role as an ambassador, semira and her friends made it their mission to educate their peers. “we tallk about hygiene, menstruation, proper use of reusable pad and practical methods of proper disposal of non reusable ones we make sure they know that you can’t share reusable pads even with family.” “we also shared remedies to reduce menstrual pain, for me holding hot water around my stomach works.”
In her personal journey, semira opted for reusable pads due to their costeffectiveness.“at first i was not so happy because it used to scratch my body but i realised it is because i was not changing it as often so i started to change it in less than 6 hours and now i only use this.”
In her free time,semira’s passion for teaching extended beyond her role as a wash club ambassador. She found joy in sharing her knowlage with her peers and so she voluntarily organized a study group. “some students preferred to play during break time, but there were always students who share my passion and stay for the knowledge. I love staying in the classroom, creating a study group and teaching different subjects. It is now my favorite pastime and a way to make a positive impact.”
Semira’s journey from uncertain beginnings to becoming a leader in hygiene education is nothing short of inspiring. Her commitment, bravery, and compassionate nature have touched the lives of her fellow students and created a ripple effect throughout her school. She continues to inspire those around her, proving that age is not a barrier to making a positive impact and that they too can make a remarkable difference in their school and community.
