From silence to strength
How young South Sudanese are leading menstrual health advocacy in South Sudan
At the forefront of this powerful movement is Viola Onesimus, a 23-year-old youth advocate, a member of UNICEF Young Reporters Programme and studies law at Stafford International University. Deeply passionate about children’s rights, education, and reproductive and mental health, Viola is boldly raising awareness about menstrual hygiene among young people in her community and beyond.
Menstruation remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatised topics in South Sudan. For many girls, it is wrapped in silence, myths, and misinformation, barriers that often prevent them from fully participating in school and community life. However, a new generation of youth leaders is challenging that reality. They are breaking taboos, opening conversations, and advocating for dignity, health, and the rights of girls and women.
Viola’s Journey: From shy student to peer educator
“I didn’t have anyone to talk to about menstruation when I was younger. That made me shy and scared. Now, through the Young Reporters Programme, I have gained the confidence and knowledge to change that for others,” Viola recalls.
Her dedication to breaking menstrual stigma recently led her to Excellence Secondary School in Lologo 2, Juba, where she facilitated a peer education session attended by more than 40 students, including over 35 girls and 5 boys. When asked about the importance of involving boys in these discussions, Viola emphasised that their inclusion is essential in combating stigma and building support systems for girls.
Boys often have misinformation about menstruation. Including them in these conversations is vital. When boys understand, they become allies who help reduce stigma and support girls.
During the session, Viola addressed not only the practical aspects of menstrual hygiene but also focused on building self-esteem and confidence among the girls. She encouraged them to engage fully in class and school activities without fear or shame.
“Many girls miss school during their periods because they feel embarrassed. This must change because every girl has the right to education and dignity, every day of the month,” she stressed.
What makes Viola’s story especially inspiring is how she has used the skills gained from the Young Reporters Programme, such as public speaking and confidence, to spark important conversations in unexpected places. She recalls striking up a conversation about menstrual hygiene with a female teacher from Excellence Secondary School while taking public transport. That discussion led to a formal meeting with the school’s management, who recognised the importance of the issue and organised the peer education session as a result.
The rising voices of South Sudan’s young reporters
Viola is part of a growing movement of UNICEF Young Reporters across South Sudan who are using their voices, experiences, and creativity to challenge societal norms and promote menstrual health advocacy in their communities.
One of these changemakers is Tom Baptist, a 17-year-old senior three student at Juba Day Secondary School. Tom’s journey into advocacy began with confusion and fear. He remembers a classmate’s first period and mistaking it for an illness.
“I thought my classmate had cholera. I was scared and confused. But after learning more, I became proud to advocate for menstrual hygiene and help others understand it’s normal.” He recalls.
Tom’s story underscores the importance of including boys and young men in menstrual health education. His experience shows that when given accurate information, boys can grow into advocates who challenge stigma and support the rights of girls.
Another Young Reporter, Esther Keji, a 16-year-old student at Juba Diocesan Model Secondary School, channels her advocacy through poetry. In her powerful poem “A Stain of Blood,” Esther speaks truth to the silence surrounding menstruation and challenges the cultural taboos that often leave girls feeling ashamed and isolated.
A stain of blood upon my cloth, I feared I had done something wrong.
No one told me, no one said, This is normal, not to dread.A pad was placed into my hand, A quiet strength to help me stand.
With every flow, I came to see, There’s power pulsing inside me.Not shame, but pride in what I face, Each cycle held with strength and grace.
No more whispers, no more fear, Let every girl feel safe and clear.Break the silence, speak it loud, Menstrual health should make us proud.
A right for all, not hidden away, With dignity, we make our way.Clean and safe, where all belong, Strong together, proud and strong.
Esther’s words offer a deeply moving reminder that menstruation is not something to be hidden, it is a sign of strength, growth, and resilience. Her poetry invites girls to embrace their bodies with pride and encourages open, stigma-free conversations.
Yar Ajak, also 16 and a student at Juba Diocesan Model Secondary School, brings attention to the urgent, practical challenges girls face when managing their periods. Her message is direct and powerful.
Without sanitary pads, girls miss school and feel ashamed. Menstrual hygiene is a right, and the government must priortise access to products.
Her statement reflects the reality for many girls in South Sudan. It highlights the need for both community and policy-level interventions to ensure access to menstrual hygiene products and supportive environments.
Changing the Narrative Together
Together, these Young Reporters are making menstrual health a topic no longer hidden or taboo. Through education, advocacy, and storytelling, they are shifting cultural norms and creating space for honest, empowering conversations. Their work emphasises the importance of engaging boys in menstrual health education, increasing access to affordable sanitary products, and helping girls develop confidence and pride in themselves.
These stories are powerful reminders of why menstrual health education and access matter. Myths must be replaced with facts. Shame must be replaced with support. And silence must be broken with courageous voices.
Menstruation is not a secret, it is a sign of strength, development, and resilience. When we listen to the voices of young people, we hear the truth: that every girl deserves dignity, health, and a safe, supportive environment every day of the month.
If we talk about it, we can change it. Every girl deserves to feel proud, prepared, and powerful, every day of the month
UNICEF, through its Young Reporters programme, reiterates its commitment to support these inspiring young leaders through the available platform, offering mentorship and the opportunity to use their skills, talents, and gifts to advocate issues that are relevant to all children and young people. Their stories demonstrate that menstrual health is not just a girls’ issue, it’s a human rights issue, and it requires the commitment and participation of everyone.
