How One Woman is Breaking Taboos and Creating Change
Menstrual hygiene remains a significant challenge in many rural areas, where access to safe and affordable sanitary pads is limited. But when Swati saw the struggle of women in her village, she didn’t wait for a solution—she became the solution.
Swati started making affordable sanitary pads herself, ensuring that women no longer had to compromise on their health and hygiene. What began as a small initiative soon turned into Sakhi, a women-led manufacturing unit that provides not just menstrual products but also jobs and empowerment.
Key Highlights of Swati’s Initiative
• Founded Sakhi, a women-led manufacturing unit producing affordable sanitary pads
• Created job opportunities for local women, giving them financial independence
• Developed an eco-friendly pad incinerator to ensure proper disposal and environmental safety
• Breaking menstrual taboos by spreading awareness and promoting hygiene
• Changing lives by making menstrual health accessible and sustainable
•Sakhi: More Than Just a Sanitary Pad Initiative
Making Affordable Sanitary Pads Accessible
In many villages, women either lack access to sanitary pads or cannot afford them. This often leads to the use of unsafe alternatives, increasing the risk of infections and health issues. Swati recognized this challenge and took matters into her own hands. By producing low-cost sanitary pads, Sakhi ensures that menstrual hygiene products are within reach for all women.
Empowering Women with Jobs and Skills
Sakhi is not just about making pads; it’s about creating livelihoods. Swati employed local women, giving them the opportunity to earn an income while working in a supportive and empowering environment. These jobs provide financial independence, enabling women to support their families and educate their children.
Innovating with an Eco-Friendly Pad Incinerator
One of the biggest issues with sanitary waste disposal is the lack of proper facilities, leading to unhygienic conditions and environmental pollution. Swati and her team didn’t just stop at making pads—they built their own eco-friendly pad incinerator. This ensures safe disposal, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Breaking Menstrual Taboos and Raising Awareness
Menstruation is often considered a taboo topic in many communities, preventing women from openly discussing their hygiene needs. Through educational workshops and community engagement, Sakhi is helping women understand the importance of menstrual hygiene and encouraging open conversations about periods.
Inspiring Change: The Impact of Sakhi
Swati’s initiative has had a transformational impact on her community:
✔ Increased menstrual hygiene awareness in rural areas
✔ Reduced dependency on expensive commercial sanitary pads
✔ Created job opportunities for women in need
✔ Encouraged sustainable sanitary waste disposal
✔ Empowered women to take control of their health and hygiene
Swati’s Message: Be the Change You Want to See
Swati’s story is a powerful reminder that one person can make a difference. Her journey from identifying a problem to creating a women-led business shows that solutions don’t always have to come from large corporations or governments—sometimes, they start at home.
She encourages others to step forward, take action, and create change in their own communities. Whether it’s menstrual hygiene, education, or women’s empowerment, every small effort contributes to a bigger transformation.
Conclusion: Women Empowering Women
Sakhi is more than a brand—it’s a movement. Swati’s determination has not only improved menstrual health in her village but has also given countless women a chance at a better future.
By providing affordable sanitary pads, creating jobs, and ensuring sustainable waste disposal, Swati is proving that #SheIsTheChange.
