Girls Empowerment Program
Background
The Girls Empowerment Program is our newest project and aims to empower and support girls during the often challenging phase of puberty and transition to adulthood. This stage of life is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Many girls struggle with issues such as identity formation, self-esteem, peer pressure, emotional insecurity, mental health challenges, the influence of social media, relationships, and the transition to adulthood.
In addition, these challenges are often exacerbated by societal taboos and a lack of accessible resources in the area of menstrual health and hygiene.
Our mission is to support young girls so they can navigate these uncertain times and embark on a self-determined and fulfilling adult life feeling empowered, confident, and well-prepared. We are convinced that education and awareness are crucial tools for achieving this goal.
Structure
We aim to work with each group for at least a year. During this time, we ensure a balanced combination of theoretical content, group activities, and practical skills. This longer program duration allows us to build strong relationships with the participants and foster trust. This trust is crucial for creating an atmosphere where the girls feel safe to share their worries, fears, and questions, enabling them to benefit fully from the program.
Each Girls Empowerment Program meeting is carefully structured to combine educational content with engaging group activities. Topics covered include puberty and physical changes, menstruation and menstrual hygiene, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, childbirth, and contraception. We also discuss safe sex and protection against sexually transmitted infections, as well as sensitive topics such as sexual abuse, rape, and the importance of consent. Another focus is on the relevance of education and awareness for a self-determined future, mental health, identity formation, and emotional well-being. The prevention of alcohol and drug abuse, as well as violence, also plays a crucial role. Furthermore, aspects such as family planning and shaping one's own future are addressed.
Why?
The topics addressed in the program are often shrouded in societal taboos, which can make open discussions difficult. A key objective of our program is therefore to break down these taboos by creating a safe and supportive space where girls can talk about sensitive topics without fear or shame.
We want to build close relationships with the girls and develop a relationship of trust. This trust should encourage them to speak openly about their problems, fears, and questions so that we can offer them the best possible support.
By addressing both the practical and emotional aspects of growing up, the Girls Empowerment Program aims to empower girls to shape their own lives and futures. Our vision is not only to equip them with knowledge and skills, but also to give them the confidence to overcome societal stigmas, develop their potential, and enter adulthood strengthened and resilient.
