Empower disadvantaged girls in Indian slums

Yamini, once a reserved and hesitant girl from one of the communities where OSCAR works, has emerged as a powerful voice and changemaker through her participation in OSCAR Foundation’s Life Skills and Leadership programme. Initially uncomfortable discussing sensitive subjects like Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH), she often avoided public speaking and preferred to remain behind the scenes.

Over the past year, regular training, mentorship and community engagement helped her grow into a confident young leader. Today, she heads the Learning Community (LC) initiative in her locality, a platform for adolescent girls in Mumbai to share, learn and build leadership skills through educational activities, empowering them to participate in public life and overcome social barriers.

A defining moment came when she spoke at an event, sharing her MHH experiences with poise and conviction, marking her emergence as an advocate and public speaker. She then collaborated with 14 other girls and mentors to organise three community events and performed a street play on menstrual hygiene, challenging taboos and encouraging dialogue.

Yamini also led an initiative with BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) to install two incinerators in public toilets, offering a lasting menstrual waste solution. With support from Mahila Mandals (Women's Groups in English) and peers, she now addresses wider issues like clean water, drainage, girls’ education and sports. Her dedication was recognised when she emerged as the top scorer during the Annual Day celebration.

Yamini’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential within every young girl when given the opportunity, support and space to lead.