When I first heard about the Simply Period Facilitator program, I was in the middle of completing my master’s degree. To say I was hesitant would be an understatement. I wasn’t confident, I didn’t have any experience in facilitation, and my knowledge of India’s sports ecosystem was practically non-existent. Still, something about the program resonated deeply with me. The fact that it focused on female athletes, a group often overlooked, lit a spark in me. I knew I wanted to be part of it, even if I wasn’t entirely sure of what lay ahead.
The program started with a thoughtfully designed training phase, combining online modules, interactive group activities, and in-person training sessions. This structure didn’t just teach us the technical aspects of menstruation; it was also focused on building our confidence and understanding of the cultural nuances.
I’ll admit, the beginning was tough. Initial sessions often left me questioning if I was cut out for this. But the consistent encouragement made all the difference. The team emphasized that we didn’t need to be experts, just empathetic and willing to learn. That supportive environment pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, one small step at a time.
The program also ensured we were well-equipped, providing us with resources, real-time feedback, and a network of like-minded facilitators. These tools gave us a foundation to engage meaningfully with participants and tailor our workshops to their specific needs.
My First Workshop: Stepping Into Reality
After months of preparation, I finally found myself in Assam for my first workshop, alongside other facilitators. I got a firsthand look at the grassroots sports world, with all its challenges, opportunities, and the incredible resilience of the people involved. I had the chance to sit down with female athletes, hear their stories, and really understand the struggles they face. Looking back, those early workshops were so much more than just teaching, they were a time of growth for me, both as a facilitator and as a person.
Workshops Across India: A Tapestry of Stories
The program took me across the country, conducting workshops in Bihar, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Jamshedpur. Each region presented its own challenges and learning opportunities.
In Bihar, the participants were curious and eager to absorb everything we had to share. In Maharashtra, the athletes stood out for their confidence and openness, diving into discussions without hesitation. Uttar Pradesh, however, left the deepest impression.
The need for support and education about menstruation among female athletes in India isn’t something that is often recognized as critical. That’s why the places I visited during my first year as a Simply Period facilitator were such eye-openers. Each workshop, one session at a time, made me realize just how essential this work is.
When we conduct workshops, we see athletes becoming curious, engaging in discussions, and gradually understanding the importance of menstrual health in their lives. One athlete’s words deeply resonated with me: “At least there is someone who is thinking about us.”
That simple yet powerful statement served as a reminder of why initiatives like Simply Period exist to create a space where female athletes feel acknowledged, valued, and empowered to speak openly about their challenges. It reaffirmed the significance of our efforts and the change we are striving to bring.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, this journey has taught me invaluable lessons:
- Growth happens outside your comfort zone: Standing in front of a group of strangers felt daunting at first, but every session taught me that I was capable of more than I had ever imagined.
- Real learning comes from experience: No amount of theoretical knowledge could prepare me for the raw, unfiltered stories I encountered. Those interactions shaped my perspective in ways no textbook ever could.
- Small actions create big impacts: It’s the simple moments, a smile, a thank-you, or a question asked with curiosity that create lasting ripples of change.
- Support systems make all the difference: The program’s resources, mentorship, and peer network were instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and grow as a facilitator.
- Adaptability is key: Each workshop was different. Understanding the cultural and individual nuances of the participants was crucial to creating meaningful connections.
A Transformative Journey
This year wasn’t just about facilitating workshops; it was about being part of a movement that seeks to empower and uplift. The Simply Period Initiative gave me the chance to contribute to something far greater than myself, while also helping me discover my own strengths and purpose.
Today, as I reflect on this journey, I feel immense gratitude. I’ve grown in ways I never thought possible, and I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the resilience and determination of India’s female athletes.
There’s still so much work to be done, but I’m proud to be part of this journey. Here’s to continuing this mission, one workshop at a time, and to create a brighter, more supportive future for female athletes across the country.
Author Renu Yadav Currently diving deep into sports nutrition and management in Mysuru, Renu is preparing to bring fresh insights into women’s sports. She is keen on understanding the real-world challenges faced by female athletes to help them reach their pinnacle. Driven by the desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of female athletes through nutrition and education, Renu is excited to be a part of this.