Reasons to Smile: Nurturing Hope and Empowerment for the Girl Child

Empowering Girls: A Conversation with the Founder of a Menstrual Health  Charity in Kenya

In a bid to uplift vulnerable segments of the community, Reasons to Smile emerged in 2018 as a grassroots community-based organisation. Its formal registration in 2020 marked a steadfast commitment to guide and support the youth, particularly the girl child, recognising their inherent vulnerability in society.

Firmly rooted in community development principles, Reasons to Smile focuses on empowering and mentoring young individuals, striving for sustainable progress among youths, children, young women, and individuals with disabilities.

Central to its mission is the establishment of a secure haven within the community. Functioning as a pivotal resource centre, it disseminates crucial information on Sexual Reproductive Health Rights, combats substance abuse, and advocates for a society free from gender-based violence through forums, dialogues, and literature.

A comprehensive baseline survey conducted by the organisation highlighted concerning neglect faced by girl children, especially concerning menstrual health and hygiene management. Recognizing the transformative impact of restoring hope and confidence in these girls, Reasons to Smile embarked on destigmatizing menstruation. Encouraging girls to embrace menstruation as a natural part of life, the organisation aims to give them a reason to smile.

Their profound research underscored the urgency of addressing menstrual hygiene management within their Advocacy for Sexual Reproductive Health Rights objective. Alarming stigmas and cultural norms surrounding menstruation led to exploitative situations where girls exchanged sex for sanitary pads, contributing to a surge in teenage pregnancies.

Reasons to Smile strives to equip teenagers with life skills to make informed decisions, aiming to prevent risky behaviours such as exchanging sexual relationships for money to purchase sanitary towels.

Founder Biata initiated a menstrual health training charity, driven by her childhood experience of lacking guidance about menstruation. Focused primarily on Kilifi and Mombasa counties, the organisation has impacted over 1000 girls through educational programs, distributing washable pads, and engaging vulnerable communities. Challenges arise in taboo communities, but through engagement with local leaders, they navigate these obstacles.

Despite limited resources, the organisation conducts training sessions and plans to expand its reach across the entire coastal community. Future strategies include forging partnerships for wider impact and introducing economic empowerment programs to support underprivileged communities in affording sanitary towels.
To witness the impactful work of Reasons to Smile, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RTScboKenya. Join the initiative empowering girls, transforming communities, and bringing smiles to young faces.