Kabul, Afghanistan — At 17, Shamila faced a challenge that was both deeply personal and widely shared: the silence surrounding menstrual hygiene. As one of nine children in the family, much of her daily life revolved around helping at home after her formal education ended at grade 9 as a result of the closure of schools for girls beyond secondary education.

Despite the challenges, she remained determined to build a better future for herself. “I always wanted to improve my knowledge and continue learning,” she says.

A fundamental aspect of her health was also left unaddressed.

Shamila struggled with her menstrual cycle. She had little access to reliable information or open discussion about menstrual health management (MHM) and women’s health, a taboo topic in her community. The closure of schools further limited her access to reliable information and education.

As a result, managing her menstrual cycle became a source of confusion and discomfort. Without proper awareness or guidance, she often felt unsupported and unsure how to care for her health during menstruation. The lack of information affected both her confidence and her daily life.

Everything began to change after a friend introduced her to the Multi-purpose Youth Centre (MYC) in Kabul supported by UNFPA with funding from the European Union.

After visiting the centre, Shamila joined learning sessions such as healthy lifestyle and MHM awareness sessions. The activities gave her access to crucial, life-changing information.

The MHM sessions provided the essential knowledge she was missing. Through the menstrual health and hygiene sessions, she learned how to manage her period more safely and better understand her health. She also received a hygiene kit with essential supplies that helped her manage her menstrual needs more comfortably.

“Before visiting the MYC, I did not have enough knowledge or confidence to manage these challenges properly,” Shamila said. “Now I feel more aware and comfortable caring for my health.”

The changes gradually affected other parts of her life as well. With greater awareness and confidence, Shamila became more comfortable discussing menstrual health and sharing information with others around her. The centre also helped her regain a sense of direction after her education was interrupted.

Today, Shamila continues attending classes and awareness sessions at the centre. She hopes to share what she has learned with other girls in her community.

The MYC helps adolescent girls access health information, life-skills education, and safe learning spaces where they can continue building confidence and knowledge.