My First Time Stories

S3:E14 - POETIC REVOLUTION, REVOLUTIONARY SPITTER

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Step into the world of spoken word with Janet Mbugua as she hosts Norris Kabembe, a poet known as the "Revolutionary spitter." Inspired by his grandfather's activism and fueled by the spirit of figures like Thomas Sankara, Norris uses poetry as a powerful tool for social change. From addressing gender-based violence to advocating for community involvement in societal transformation, Norris's words resonate with passion and urgency. Join us as we explore the intersection of art and activism, and discover how poetry serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and collective action.

S3:E13 - MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY, ZAHRA NJOKI

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Janet Mbugua in a heartfelt conversation with Zahra, "A Wounded Healer" and a mental health advocate dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding mental health in Kenya. Zahra shares her journey of overcoming mental health challenges and finding purpose in advocating for others. Explore her innovative approach to mental health through workshops and her belief in the transformative power of nature and self-care. From addressing the link between reproductive health and mental well-being to championing men's mental health awareness, Zahra's message resonates with compassion and hope. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on the importance of destigmatizing mental health and fostering a culture of self-care and empathy

S3:E12 - VOICES ON WALLS, NDEREVA MUTUA

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Janet Mbugua in a captivating episode of "My First Time Stories" as she hosts Ndereva Mutua, an artist whose work transcends canvas to become a powerful voice for human rights activism. From humble beginnings as a portrait artist in Mathare, Mutua shares his journey of using art as a tool for social change. Delve into his experiences with graffiti, his involvement in addressing police brutality and gender-based violence, and his passionate commitment to advocating for marginalized communities. Explore his challenges, including arrests for his art, and his proudest moments, like showcasing his work in the Netherlands. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about the transformative power of art in sparking social justice movements

S3:E11 - ENDOMETRIOSIS UNTOLD!, DORIS MURIMI

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Janet Mbugua in a powerful conversation with Doris, an advocate for menstrual health and endometriosis awareness. Doris shares her personal journey of living with menstrual disorders for 33 years before receiving a proper diagnosis. From misdiagnosis to advocacy, she reveals the challenges and triumphs of her journey. Dive into her efforts to raise awareness, create support networks, and advocate for inclusion of menstrual disorders in healthcare policies. Explore the importance of education, empowerment, and involving men in conversations about menstrual health. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on breaking taboos and promoting understanding around menstrual disorders

S3:E10- INTERGENERATIONAL PERIOD TALK

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we delve into the rich and varied experiences of menstruation across different generations. With guests Prof.Myriam Sidibe, Dr. Claire Kinuthia, and Keziah Ouma, we discuss the journey from the onset of periods, through middle age, to menopause. Our conversation highlights the misinformation and myths surrounding menstruation, addressing the critical need for accurate knowledge and robust support systems. This episode provides valuable insights into what every woman needs to know about periods at every stage of life. Join us for an enlightening discussion to bridge the generational gap and promote menstrual health education.

S3:E9- ANITA`S PATH TO INFLUENCE

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Step into the dynamic world of content creation with Janet Mbugua as she introduces Anita, a banker and content creator. Discover how Anita's passion for reviewing public Transport vehicles in Kenya transcends stereotypes and empowers others to embrace their interests fearlessly. From challenging male-dominated spaces to fostering community through her show "Nyanga Culture," Anita embodies resilience and determination. Join us as we celebrate her journey, advocate for agency, and envision a future where passion and advocacy collide

S3:E8 - TEMINA SEMO, SISTERHOOD AND SELF-CARE

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Janet Mbugua in a captivating dialogue with Temina Semo, a lawyer by profession and advocate for women's self-care and empowerment. Temina shares her journey from aspiring filmmaker to passionate advocate for human rights and menstrual equity. Delve into her experiences as a content creator and her commitment to fostering positive conversations on social media. Explore Temina's insights on navigating womanhood, dismantling period shame, and promoting intentional self-care. Temina emphasizes embracing femininity and championing change in society.

S3:E7- ARYANA RAJ, EARTH`S YOUNG GUARDIAN

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Janet Mbugua in a thought-provoking discussion with Aryana Raj, Pinky Ghelani's daughter, a passionate advocate for climate action and youth empowerment. Aryana shares her insights on the urgency of addressing climate change and the importance of staying committed to impactful projects. Delve into her aspirations for acting, her observations on humanity's relationship with the Earth, and her growing interest in issues like period poverty. Discover how Aryana is using her voice to inspire change and challenge the status quo.

S3:E6 - YOUTH AND RIGHTS;IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 23:00:00 GMT

Amidst Kenya's vibrant youth movement demanding recognition in politics and development, young advocates are championing inclusivity and highlighting the transformative power of youth participation in decision-making processes. This video showcases the compelling voices of young leaders advocating for their rightful place in policy-making and societal conversations. I had the opportunity to converse with these inspiring individuals at the RHNK Conference in Mombasa, where they emphasized the importance of sexual health and rights. Featuring insightful discussions with both male and female youth, the video highlights their commitment to addressing key issues such as sexual reproductive rights and menstrual justice. Their stories demonstrate a strong dedication to creating an environment where youth-centered approaches are prioritized and valued.

S3:E5-PERIOD POVERTY,TAX OR NOT!

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:08:00 GMT

This new development (concession?) is overshadowed by the heartbreaking reality: innocent lives lost, many injured, and others still abducted. Before that, gaslighting and a lack of empathy.

This is still far cry from #TheKenyaWeWant.

An mchanga account is asking for donations to support the families of those affected during the protests. Please contribute.

We face a long road to economic, psychological, and political freedom.

We still have a long way to go as well, in achieving Menstrual Equity, with 65% of women and girls in Kenya still not able to access menstrual products.

A few of us connected ahead of Tuesday's protests to highlight the journey of Menstrual Justice in Kenya.

Full video on my YouTube and at the link in my bio.

Follow these handles below, to learn about the incredible work of Menstrual Champions in Kenya (and add more if any are missing):

@bintipads_ke (who were not able to make it to us in time)

@nyaaruai

@the_grace_cup

@keepingagirlinschol_usikuemshy

@niayanguke

@heels4pads

@mwiqsr

@ari_pad_atm

@inuadada

@padmad_ke

#stoptaxingmyperiod

#menstruationmatters

#endperiodpoverty

#endperiodstigma

#periodrightsarehumanrights

S3:E4- NORAH ZAWADI, MINDFUL TRANSFORMATION

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Temina in a heartfelt conversation with Norah, a former school president and advocate for positive change. Norah shares her journey of advocating for school reforms, promoting online safety, and embracing self-care amidst social pressures. Dive into Norah's world as she discusses her passion for art, her aspirations for supernatural abilities, and her vision for impactful social media conversations. Discover how Norah navigates life while championing important causes like period positivity and childhood advocacy.

S3:E3 - CHILD ADVOCACY AWAKENING, DAN MOSE

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Anita Ndete hosts Daniel Mose , a passionate young advocate for child rights and football enthusiast. Daniel discusses the need to establish football clubs for girls to fight period poverty, support peers facing educational challenges, and combat child oppression. He emphasizes the importance of social media advocacy, talent shows, and government involvement in promoting child welfare. Join us as Daniel shares his inspiring journey and unwavering commitment to supporting marginalized children.

S3:E2 - TUMI MATHENGE,VOICES OF CHANGE

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Janet Mbugua chats with Tumi Mathenge, a teenage advocate for climate change and social justice. Tumi shares her insights on period poverty, her passion for conservation, and the wisdom imparted by her supportive parents. Discover her inspiring journey and dedication to creating a better world for women and the environment.

S3:E1- BREAKING THE SILENCEON MENSTRUAL HYGIENE

Thu, 30 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In our season relaunch, we dive into the pressing issue of menstrual hygiene policies in Kenya and Africa. Joined by our insightful guests, Megan Mukuria , Innocent Indenje , and Lucy Wambui we explore the persistent period stigma and the harsh realities some girls face, including Sex for pads - sexual exchange just to obtain sanitary pads. Despite the openness of Gen Z to discuss menstrual hygiene significant gaps in health and menstrual policies remain. This episode sheds light on these critical issues and emphasizes the urgent need for change. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that aims to break the silence and push for progress.

Listen now on Spotify, Afripods, and Apple Podcasts. #MyFirstTimePodcast #MenstrualHygiene #EndPeriodStigma

S2:E14 - Safe Space - Part 2

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 06:38:01 GMT

We continue with our conversation on Safe Spaces with University of Nairobi, UNESCO and the #O3plus campaign and learn about the RADA app, available for students on campus to be able to access information on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, as part of a larger conversation on students safety and agency. Here is part 2

S2:E13 - Safe Space - Part 1

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 06:29:49 GMT

Creating Safe Spaces on Campuses, for students to talk about their reproductive health and rights as well as violence, is important. But what happens when they feel like they've been seeking safe spaces for a long time and don't feel heard? We spoke with students at the University of Nairobi, I collaboration with UNESCO as part of their #O3plus campaign, and learnt about their struggle to balance their studies with Social issues that keep them from thriving at their full potential. Here is Part 1 of that conversation on My First Time Stories.

S2:E12 - The Flow Of Life

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 02:00:00 GMT

Abby was continuously bothered by girls in her community missing school, and the inconsistently of providing school girls with sanitary products. While on campus, she formed a group with her friends, to raise funds to mentor young girls and she's gone on to publish a book, which details the lengths to which undeserved girls and women have to go, to manage their period. It's called The Flow of Life. Here is our conversation.

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S2:E11 - Acting and Activism

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 02:03:00 GMT

Sheila Munyiva is a formidable actress who stunned on the screens in the critically acclaimed Kenyan movie, Rafiki. She continues to use her advocate for inclusion, whether that means diversity on screen or inclusivity and equity in Menstrual Justice. We spoke with her about how she hopes more of us can uplift those whose stories are often shrouded in stigma and shame.

Her latest series, Country Queen, is currently on Netflix!

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S2:E10 - At the Frontlines; And Why We Should Never Judge What We Don't Fully Know

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:34:45 GMT

When I met Fenny, I was drawn by her passion for social impact as much as her passion and enthusiasm for the flute! Fenny has grown up surrounded by the injustices she now spends a lot of her time working towards ending, as a core part of the Inua Dada Foundation team, at our centre in Korogocho. I spoke to her about how deep the issue of Period Poverty goes, what she's witnessed and why we should all have empathy and not judge things on the surface. Here's our conversation.

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S2:E9 - My First Time Stories latest

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 02:00:00 GMT

I've been up and down, out and about but that's no excuse

My travels and engagements have however allowed me to begin to see the urgency in ensuring that access to reproductive health and rights information, is made available, NOW!

I also talk about the Day of the Girl and how much more progress we need to push for, plus a highlight on World Mental Health Day.

Listen in as I encourage YOU to take action, take up space, and share your story or be involved in Social Justice.

Thank you for continuing to follow My First Time Stories - more soon

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Instagram: @myfirsttimestories

S2: E8 - Catching You Up!

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 02:00:00 GMT

Hey folks! Thank you for walking with our podcast and winning an APVA award with us! I'm truly inspired by the stories we've highlighted and your own passion to address matters to do with Social Justice. In this episode, I catch up with you all and tease what's to come, as we continue to push for Menstrual Justice and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, one story at a time!

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S2: E7 - My First Period Was Marked by Lots of Celebration! A conversation with Nadia Abdalla, Kenya's Youngest Deputy Minister, Global Youth Speaker and Author

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 02:00:00 GMT

'When a girl gets her first period, the family throws a big party because the girl becomes a woman ' - Testimonial from Greece

." You need to lick a teaspoon of honey to make the future periods easier." - Testimonial from Israel

"I called my grandma over the toilet and told her what I saw on my panties. When she saw the blood she SLAPPED ME." - Testimonial from Turkey

All of these reactions are ways in which a girl's first period is met with. They vary from country to community and while often time first periods are met with shame, stigma, shock, and other largely negative reactions, more and more we're seeing a more positive outlook when it comes to this normal biological function.

Chief Administrative Secretary in the Government of Kenya, Author and Global Speaker Nadia Abdalla is among those whose transition was marked with song, dance, and celebration. She talks to me about how this allowed her to embrace not just her period, but her self-esteem as well.

Here's that conversation.

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S2:E6 - I Lied About My Period and Thought That Tampons We're Sweets! Conversation with Karen Kaz Lucas

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 23:51:00 GMT

According to Huck Magazine, in their article 'Why Do So Many Girls Lie About Starting Their Period', girls are getting their period post-millennium averages at 12.5 years, making way for puberty to hit at the earliest stage since the 1800's. At the same time, young women today are under immense pressure to adhere to societal expectations of womanhood. It's a toxic combination.

So when Kaz, an activist and Ted Fellow from Kenya, told me she lied about starting her period, she's in plenty of company, among the countless other girls who feel 'out of place' if they haven't began menstruating like their peers and often time, this can lead to feelings of anxiety.

Kaz and I laughed about her story in this conversation and thankfully she can look back at it with humor, but let's continue to do away with the stigma of girls starting or in this case, not starting their period. Because everyone's journey and cycle is different!

Listen in to our conversation…

Follow Kaz's work on kazentertainment.com

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Instagram: @myfirsttimestories

S2: E5 - What I Wish I Knew About Periods

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 03:00:00 GMT

'I wish I knew how uncomfortable they could be'

'I wish I knew how moody I would be'

'I just wish someone had told me!'

What do you wish you knew about periods?

According to healthpartner.com, over 50% of people who menstruate experience some pain with their period. In fact, pain is the most common problem that people complain of during their menstrual cycles.

That honest conversation forms our latest podcast episode, where we speak to our #InuaDadaVoices advocates, Lilian and Rose.

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S2:E4 - Myths And Misconceptions Continued

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 06:54:24 GMT

According to the International Journal of Social Science and Humanity, All religions of the world have placed restrictions on menstruating women. Be it Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism. Sikhism is the only religion where the scriptures condemn sexism and don't impose any restrictions on menstruating women.

While we were honored to feature progressive religious leaders in our book My First Time (currently available at Text Book Centre stores in Nairobi), in reality, many religions perpetuate stigma related to Menstruation.

We spoke to our #InuaDadaVoices advocates on this and more; here's a continuation of our conversation on Myths and Misconceptions around Menstrual Health.

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S2:E3- Period Myths and Misconceptions with our Inua Dada Voices Advocates

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 05:36:10 GMT

Studies report that many girls have lots of misconceptions about Menstruation. Most of this information is acquired from their mothers, television, friends, and teachers. Such taboos affect girls' and women's emotional state, mentality, lifestyle, and most importantly health.

We sat with Inua Dada Foundation youth advocates, including a Doctor (Sharon), to debunk some of these misconceptions, in a sometimes funny, sometimes concerning a conversation with podcast host Janet Mbugua.

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S2:E2- Menstruation and PCOS…Ciku Shares Her Lived Experience

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 06:20:00 GMT

"Please don't call it Pee-Coz! It's PCOS!" Ciiku insists, rightfully so as she discusses her condition and normalizing the conversation.

PCOS or Polycystic ovary syndrome is described as a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges.

Symptoms include menstrual irregularity, excess hair growth, acne, and obesity.

Ciiku popularly known as Ciiku Wa Soxxy talks to us about the condition that affects up to 20% of women worldwide.

Listen to the conversation.

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S2:E1- Male Allyship in the push for Menstrual Justice.

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 06:00:04 GMT

Welcome to Season 2 of our Podcast! I can't believe we're here! To kick off this next phase of conversations, I sat down with Alfred Muli to hone in on just how critical male allyship is in addressing issues around Menstrual Health.

He's a Menstrual Health Champion and continues to host conversations as well as distribute Menstrual products, in a bid to mobilize more men to support the push for Menstrual Justice.

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S1:E10- Periods and Frequently Asked Questions: A Conversation with A Gynecologist

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 16:33:00 GMT

Dr. Claire Kinuthia extends her passion for the field of Gynecology, to mainstreaming less talked about reproductive health matters by using her social media platforms to amplify key information. We went over a few frequently asked questions that we picked from our My First Time social media platforms. Dr. Claire also talks about the role she feels medics can play, in pushing for Menstrual Justice and access to information on our bodies and rights. Here's that conversation…

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S1:E9- Activism Towards Menstrual Justice in Kenya

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

For Yasmin, Period Poverty is something she has witnessed since she was a little girl growing up in Kibra. Over the last few years, she has continued to lend her voice to speaking out against Menstrual Injustice and lead efforts to lobby for increased budgetary allocation. The Kenyan Parliament slashed the current budget for allocation of sanitary pads from Sh470 million to Sh260 million. Yasmin continues to push back against this through her SUPERB CBO initiative, saying that there is far too much to lose if we continue to de-prioritize Menstrual Health and have an inclusive approach to empowering girls and women.

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S1:E8- Periods and Disability

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Over 1 billion people – about 15% of the global population – currently experience disability and according to the World Health Organization (WHO), women and girls with disabilities may experience menarche and menstruation differently—and more negatively—compared to non-disabled women.

I sat down with Josephine Muturi, teacher living with disability who continues to empower many women and girls to live to their best abilities, more-during their Menstruation and has an important call to action for the government.

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S1:E7- Periods And Adolescence, Homabay Stories

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 02:54:00 GMT

For a lot of teen girls, the onset of their periods comes with trauma and the ever familiar statement from their mother; do not play with boys! But how do they internalize the information across counties in Kenya? We learnt about experiences in Homabay County, which hosts the valuable Lake Victoria which is a source of livelihood for many residents and also heard from boys, some of whom are pushing normalize the conversation in their communities.

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S1:E6- My First Time, Voices From The Book: Adelle Onyango

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 02:57:00 GMT

She's one of the most recognizable voices in advocacy in Kenya and is a global champion for human rights, an author, a podcaster and a style icon! We spoke with Adelle Onyango about her thoughts on legislation and empathy for Menstruators, many of whom continue to struggle to access sanitary products and information on their sexual and reproductive health and rights.

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S1:E5- My First Time: In Their Words

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 05:57:00 GMT

When the book My First Time was published, some of the diverse voices that were represented in text, came to life through a series of audio conversations that continue to hold true just two years later. Legendary Kenyan Sports Commentator Carol Radull, talked to My First Time about period poverty, myths and the power to do so much more.

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S1:E4- Periods through Generations

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 01:35:00 GMT

In many communities, family, especially the mother, has the most important role in the education and health behaviors of girls, in order for them to have a healthy transition during their puberty. Madhvi, who is a Menstrual Health Champion and founder of the progressive platform, PadMad, has been empowering girls across Kenya and is now often time joined by her 12 year old daughter, Neeyati. Not only has this allowed Neeyati to become comfortable in her own transition, but she's also developed a period starter kit for girls. On today's episode I spoke to the mother-daughter duo about how they're fighting period poverty and period stigma.

Find and support PadMad here:

www.padmadkenya.com

Email: padmadkenya@gmail.com

Facebook: PadMad

Instagram: padmad_ke

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S1:E3- Period Poverty

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

According to UNICEF, more than 1.2 million primary school-age children in Kenya, which has a population of 50 million, do not attend school at all.

Research shows that 65% of Kenyan women and girls are unable to afford basic sanitary pads. As a consequence, girls often rely on the men in their lives for period products and some girls engage in transactional sex in order to secure sanitary products, perpetuating a patriarchal cycle of reliance and exploitation. In this episode I spoke to Benazir Omotto and Lavender Akinyi of Umande Trust, a rights based agency based in Kenya, on the work Benna does to highlight gaps in Menstrual health in informal settlements such as Kibra where they're based, and their collective call to action for their to be more monitoring and evaluation regarding distribution of sanitary pads.

Follow and support Umande Trust through their social media pages:

@Umande_Trust on Twitter and Umande Trust Facebook page

and mine

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S1:E2- Periods and Advocacy

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Talking openly about Menstruation has often been deemed taboo. Although this is beginning to change as we see more members of society speaking up against stigma and poverty, myths, misconceptions, and misinformation about periods feed into stigma which can be hugely damaging for many girls, women, and people who menstruate around the world. On this episode I spoke to Angela and Mo, two thirds of the trio Sister Speaks Global, who are Menstrual Champions and Podcast hosts, on matters women, health and more. We also learn about how they are providing access to products for girls across Kenya, one pas dispenser at a time.

Sister Speaks Global information:

Instagram and TikTok @sisterspeaks254

Facebook: Sisterspeaks254 'Dada Ongea'

LinkedIn: Sisterspeaks Global & Heels4Pads Foundation

Email: info@sisterspeaksglobal.org

Internationally:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/heels4pads-initiative

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S1:E1- Periods Behind Bars

Thu, 26 May 2022 06:00:00 GMT

Access to tampons and pads for incarcerated people is a right, not a privilege. Yet the world over, inmates have to beg for what they need to manage their period. On today's episode, we speak to Teresa Njoroge, the fonder of Clean Start who has also made her story global on TED Talks. She currently runs an organization that helps former inmates across Africa re-integrate in to society. A former inmate herself, she describes her experience when menstruating behind bars and appeals to policymakers to implement existing policies that protect inmates while asking for the public to extend empathy and donate products, where possible. For any inquiries about Clean Start or to learn how to donate, find their contacts here: +254 735 535 164 or via email at support@cleanstartkenya.org Follow My First Time across social media here: Instagram: @MyFirstTimeStories Facebook: My First Time Stories

Trailer: Welcome to My First Time Stories

Thu, 19 May 2022 16:44:44 GMT

Welcome to my first time stories