In a world where access to basic necessities is often taken for granted, period poverty remains a pressing issue affecting women and girls globally. In Australia, one woman decided to take a stand and make a difference. Rochelle Courtenay, the visionary founder of “Share the Dignity,” is on a mission to eradicate period poverty in Australia and restore dignity to those in need.
The inception of Share the Dignity dates back to 2015 when Rochelle came across a sobering reality – many women and girls in Australia were unable to afford menstrual products and were resorting to using makeshift solutions during their periods. This harsh revelation inspired her to break down the barriers that perpetuated this widespread problem.
The guiding principle of Share the Dignity is that access to sanitary items should be a basic right for all individuals, irrespective of their socioeconomic status. The organisation operates on a simple yet impactful model: collect sanitary products and distribute them to those in need through community partnerships, shelters, and organisations that support vulnerable women and girls.
One of the organisation’s key initiatives, “It’s in the Bag,” gained immense popularity during the holiday season. Launching in 2015, the campaign encourages people to donate handbags filled with essential items, including menstrual products, toiletries, and personal care items. These “bags of love” not only provide practical support but also send a powerful message of compassion and solidarity.
What sets Share the Dignity apart is its commitment to empowering local communities to address period poverty on a grassroots level. Rochelle recognised that sustainable change requires engaging the public, businesses, and government agencies to join the cause.
The organisation’s incredible growth and success can be attributed to the power of social media and community engagement. Leveraging platforms like Facebook and lnstagram, Share the Dignity raises awareness about period poverty, educates the public on the issue, and encourages people to take action. Rochelle’s unwavering dedication and authenticity have resonated with thousands, fostering a vibrant and committed community of supporters and volunteers.
Rochelle Courtenay’s efforts have not gone unnoticed on numerous occasions and was recently recognised at the 2023 Australian Awards for Excellence in Women’s Leadership for her outstanding contributions to society. This recognition further bolstered Share the Dignity’s reach and influence, sparking a nationwide conversation about period poverty and destigmatising menstruation.
As a result of Share the Dignity’s tireless work, they have donated over 4 million period products through multiple initiatives across Australia allowing girls and women to manage their periods with dignity and confidence. Beyond providing immediate relief, the organisation’s advocacy has also influenced policy changes at both the state and federal levels. Rochelle and her team have been vocal advocates for the elimination of the “tampon tax” and for ensuring that menstrual products are accessible in schools and public spaces.
Looking ahead, Rochelle Courtenay and Share the Dignity show no signs of slowing down. With a firm belief in the power of collective action, they continue to inspire and mobilise communities to combat period poverty, inching closer to their vision of a nation where no one has to experience the indignity of not being able to access menstrual products.
Share the Dignity stands as a testament to the incredible impact one individual can make when driven by compassion and a commitment to change. Through Rochelle’s vision and the dedication of countless supporters, Share the Dignity is transforming the lives of women and girls across Australia, proving that every small act of kindness can ripple into a wave of positive change.
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