Keep her in school

Peer Mentorship and Life-Skills Sessions provide young people and teenagers with consistent guidance, encouragement, and practical skills to help them navigate the challenges of adolescence. The activity recognizes that young people often listen and relate strongly to individuals who understand their experiences, making peer mentorship an important approach for promoting positive behaviour and healthy decision-making.

Trained mentors and peer educators facilitate small-group sessions focusing on self-esteem, communication, decision-making, goal setting, healthy relationships, managing peer pressure, understanding personal boundaries, and developing confidence to make responsible choices. Sexual and reproductive health issues are integrated into these discussions in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.

Mentorship sessions provide young people with an opportunity to discuss challenges they may be experiencing at school, at home, or within their communities. Participants are encouraged to identify pressures that could negatively affect their education, relationships, health, and future aspirations. Mentors help them explore positive alternatives and develop practical strategies for handling difficult situations.

The program also encourages young people to set personal and educational goals and understand how present decisions can influence their future. Where appropriate, mentors help participants identify trusted adults, health professionals, and other support services they can approach when they require additional assistance.

Particular attention is given to vulnerable adolescents who may experience social exclusion, poverty, family challenges, or limited access to reliable information. Through regular mentorship, young people can develop stronger confidence, communication skills, resilience, and a greater sense of responsibility for their well-being.

For donors, supporting peer mentorship means creating a sustainable support system around young people. Every mentorship session is an opportunity to provide knowledge, strengthen confidence, prevent harmful outcomes, and encourage teenagers to remain focused on education and positive life goals.

Menstrual Health and Hygiene Workshops support adolescent girls with the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to manage menstruation safely, comfortably, and with dignity. Menstruation is a normal part of growing up, yet many girls face challenges caused by inadequate information, limited access to menstrual products, stigma, and cultural misconceptions.

The workshops create a safe and supportive environment where girls can learn about menstruation, puberty, personal hygiene, menstrual cycles, appropriate menstrual hygiene practices, and how to manage their periods while attending school and participating in daily activities. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and discuss concerns openly without embarrassment or fear of judgment.

Mentors also address menstrual stigma and harmful myths that can negatively affect girls' confidence and participation in school and community life. Girls are encouraged to understand that menstruation should not prevent them from pursuing their education, developing friendships, participating in activities, or achieving their personal goals.

Where resources are available, the program complements education with practical support, including menstrual pads and other essential hygiene supplies for girls experiencing menstrual poverty. Mentors also provide guidance on responsible use and hygiene practices associated with menstrual products.

The workshops can additionally create opportunities to identify girls who may require further support and connect them with appropriate health professionals or trusted services when necessary. Sessions may involve interactive discussions, demonstrations, question-and-answer activities, and peer support.

For donors and partners, supporting menstrual health is an investment in dignity, education, confidence, and equality. Providing girls with knowledge and essential resources can help reduce barriers associated with menstruation and strengthen their ability to participate consistently in school and community life. The program seeks to ensure that no girl is held back from her aspirations simply because she cannot safely and confidently manage her menstrual health.