Saheli, meaning “best friend” in Sinhalese, is a nonprofit organization I founded to combat period poverty in Sri Lanka. In our country, deeply rooted cultural attitudes often make menstruation a taboo topic, leaving many women and girls without the proper resources or support to manage their periods with dignity. Saheli aims to break this silence, raise awareness, and provide access to sanitary products and education to those in need. Through our initiatives, we work to break the silence surrounding periods, ensuring that menstruation no longer stands in the way of a girl’s education, health, or personal growth. We also collaborate with local communities to offer workshops and seminars that encourage open discussions, helping to dismantle the stigma and empower women to take control of their health and well-being. As I represent Sri Lanka at Miss World, I am excited to bring Saheli’s mission to a global stage, raising awareness and seeking partnerships to expand our reach. With the support of passionate advocates and organizations, I believe we can create meaningful change, ensuring that menstrual health becomes a priority for women everywhere.
