1. What is this program?

Navchetna is a transformative 5-month initiative designed to empower and build the capacities of enterprising individuals based in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and towns passionate about advocating for menstrual health within their communities.

The program offers a holistic, immersive learning experience to create deep, lasting change. Through expert-led sessions, hands-on projects, and real-world applications, participants will enhance their knowledge of menstrual health and grow as community leaders and change agents. 

2. What’s in it for you?

1. Gain a deep understanding of menstrual health and hygiene, including the latest research, best practices, and effective strategies for education and outreach.
2. Develop key skills in facilitation and advocacy, enabling you to lead impactful discussions, workshops, and community initiatives with confidence and expertise.
3. Foster a strong belief in your ability to drive change and view challenges as opportunities for growth in menstrual health advocacy.

3. What will we cover in the modules?

1. Orientation and Induction: Share experiences, get to know each other and learn about the program.
2. Exploring Realities: Debrief a film and delve into menstrual health data, statistics, policies, and environmental connections.
3. Understanding the Cycle: Study the menstrual cycle in-depth, from onset to menopause, and how it varies among individuals.
4. Addressing Pain Points: Examine menstrual disorders, environmental impacts, and the need for reusable products.
5. Workshop Design: Learn to design and facilitate engaging and effective workshops.
6. Rights and Taboos: Explore sexual health, human rights, policies, and taboo topics.
7. Art of Advocacy: Develop skills in effective advocacy and campaigning.

Additionally, you will:

1. Enjoy circle times for reflection, debriefing, progress reviews, and celebrating milestones.
2. Benefit from a cohort of passionate advocates, expert guidance, mentorship, and project logistics compensation.
3. Receive a certificate recognizing your achievements and contributions upon program completion.

4. What are the timelines?

• Application Form Deadline(Extended Deadline) - 24th September, Tuesday
• Interactive Discussion - 23rd September - 26th September
• Program Orientation and Induction - 05th - 06th October, Saturday and Sunday

*Further dates will be either weekdays/weekends decided by consensus once participants are recruited

• Program End Date - 28th Feb, 2025

5. Why do we need this program?

We are confronted with alarming statistics and gaps in menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) that highlight the urgent need for change. The lack of awareness, inadequate resources, and persistent stigmas around menstruation continues to affect millions, making it clear that programs like this are not just necessary—they are essential.

At the heart of this transformation is the belief that "you are the change you wish to see in the world." Empowering individuals to take charge of their health, hygiene, and rights is the first step toward creating lasting change. By advocating for yourself and your community, you become a catalyst for progress.

We hope that this program enables young people in rural and sensitive communities to understand bodily autonomy, demand better sanitation and healthcare facilities, and drive systemic change by engaging local stakeholders—whether at the municipal, institutional, or community level. Together, we can dismantle barriers around menstrual health and build a future where everyone thrives.

6. So, what’s next?

Check for the eligibility criteria shared below - if you meet all the criteria - click on the application form and fill it out by 23rd September 2024.

To apply for this program, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: You must be 18 years or older.
2. Location: Applicants should not be based in any of the following metropolitan cities: Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, or Kolkata. 
3. Language Proficiency: You should be comfortable with Hindi, specifically reading Hindi written in English script (e.g., humari koshish hogi ki jyada se jyada logo tak reach ho paye).
4. A working knowledge of English is also required (you should be able to read and write in English).

7. Please note-

1. Irrespective of the application status you will be notified via email. 
2. People of all genders are encouraged to apply, including non-menstruators. We appreciate diversity in all forms. If you are in doubt about applying - please don't censor yourself and give it a shot. 
3. Due to the diversity of the candidates, this program is currently being offered in a combination of Hindi and English languages only. 
4. For more details contact - suhani@boondh.co