ASHA Foundation for Humanity

2 weeks ago

BREAKING THE SILENCE | Distributing Pads and Changing Lives

As a man who has traveled southeast Asia extensively over the past 20 years, I’ve come to realize how often we remain unaware of the challenges women face, particularly regarding menstrual health. On these journeys, I’m consistently surprised by the profound issues that persist in many communities, issues I had little knowledge of until I witnessed them firsthand. Menstruation, in particular, is still shrouded in silence and stigma, especially in Nepal, where many girls face ostracism during their periods.

Cultural taboos and fears surrounding menstruation often lead to isolation, with many girls unable to access necessary sanitary products. This lack of resources has dire consequences on their health and hygiene, increasing the risk of infections and reinforcing gender inequality. While these struggles may be difficult to comprehend in the western world, initiatives like the one led by advocate Vivien Stang are vital in addressing these critical issues.

Vivien’s dedication inspired a pilot program focused on assessing the needs in remote communities where school systems are often under-resourced. Schools serve as safe havens for girls, providing spaces to come together and learn about their bodies without fear or shame. Our workshops aimed to empower these girls, with local Nepali women working closely to communicate vital information and nurture open dialogue.

Ishor Bajracharya joined us again on this trip, providing invaluable logistics support and ensuring we accomplished more than we could have imagined. He introduced me to Gyan Maharjan, affectionately known as 'The Padman,' a renowned advocate for menstrual health in the area. Gyan facilitates the production of reusable sanitary pads, making these essential products both accessible and affordable. The women crafting these pads work tirelessly behind the scenes, and meeting them was a powerful reminder of the impact community-led initiatives can have. Their efforts not only support menstrual health but also empower women, enhancing their sense of dignity and respect within their community.

Accompanying me was Mai Wilachai of Ban Kung Learning Center, along with top Tintale student Manjuri and Ishor’s marvelous daughter Ipsha. Together, we visited three schools to distribute the reusable pads. Each school visit highlighted the significant challenges these environments face. One school lacked basic facilities like electricity, while another had nearly half of its students affected by recent flooding, leaving many girls without access to sanitary pads or even funds to purchase them.

The eagerness of the students to learn about menstrual health was truly uplifting, revealing the urgent need for open conversations on these topics. Notably, even the men and leaders who spoke at these workshops were also learning, gaining valuable awareness of these crucial issues. This shared learning experience contributes to a growing understanding that we believe will spread throughout the community over time.

One of the core tenets of ASHA is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, bridging the disparities faced by impoverished students. In conversations with the young women and girls, we witnessed a spark of inspiration that can ignite lasting change in the community. These incredible individuals are the future leaders on these critical issues.

Our outreach efforts took us into challenging areas, accessible only by jeep, where we engaged directly with these communities. It became clear that we are fostering a movement and raising awareness that must be sustained, supported, and expanded. This vision for transformative change aligns with the foundation's mission. Early workshops and pilot programs can serve as a powerful stepping stone toward real impact. Together, we can catalyze lasting change and empower these young leaders to shape the future.

I am incredibly grateful to be participate in such an impactful initiative. We invite you to join us in this journey of transformation. Thank you for considering supporting the ASHA Foundation For Humanity as we strive to break barriers and change narratives for future generations. Your involvement is vital as we continue to pave the way for health, dignity, and hope. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved for making a difference in these communities and paving the way for change.

Onward and upward,
William Aura ... See MoreSee Less

ASHA Foundation for Humanity

2 months ago

BACK TO NEPAL | Join Us in Reflecting on Our Achievements and Shaping Our Future Vision

Our journey is underway! From October 6 to 20, our team is heading to Bungamati village in Nepal, on a mission to bring hope to the women of this community.

In Bungamati, the vibrant spirit struggles under the weight of poverty, where inadequate sanitation and personal hygiene, especially for women, pose significant challenges. It’s rare in the world to find places still grappling with such issues.

As representatives of the ASHA Foundation for Humanity, my partner Mai Wilachai and I are dedicated to empowering young women by distributing reusable menstrual pads. Thanks to Vivien Stang’s inspired intention, this essential initiative will improve their health and hygiene, providing them with support in their daily lives.

Menstruation still carries a heavy stigma in Parts of Nepal. We’ve heard heartbreaking accounts of young girls forced to live apart during their periods, feeling “unclean” and isolated. Many lack basic education about menstruation, leaving them frightened.

Providing reusable menstrual pads offers a hygienic and sustainable solution that alleviates financial burdens and fear. More importantly, we aim to educate these girls about their bodies, empowering them to dispel myths and take charge of their health.

We're fortunate to have longtime ASHA supporter Ishor Bajracharya leading us in the field, diligently handling logistics including jeep transportation, making advance arrangements with village leaders, gathering necessary supplies - coordinating all involved. His expertise ensures our work will be impactful and well-organized.

Having spent 25 years in social action, I consider Nepal a second home. Ten years ago, I had the privilege of working with the Musica Music Institute sponsored by the Playing For Change Foundation. They united a busload of students to join ASHA’s push to immediately build shelters for earthquake victims.

I was proud then and continue to be proud now as their beloved program has flourished, through dramatically increased support from PFCF - benefiting countless individuals in the community. This trip allows us to reconnect with those we assisted, sharing their stories and reflecting on the ongoing support they’ve received.

Our time in Kathmandu coincides with vibrant local festivals, enriching our interactions and deepening our understanding of their culture. Together, we will build connections.

Stay tuned as we reveal more about our actions and share stories connecting the past to our current efforts. This work is made possible because of you - our dedicated supporters. If you’d like to help our ongoing efforts, please consider contributing to the ASHA Foundation for Humanity. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

William Aura 
#AshaFoundationForHumanity
#BanKungLearningCenter ... See MoreSee Less