As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Zonta Club I of Colombo, Sri Lanka, held its fitness fundraiser, “Walk for Dignity! End Period Poverty,” on 15 November. The event aimed to raise funds and awareness for menstrual health and hygiene while advancing the global call to end period poverty.

The walk supports the club’s partnership with the Selyn Foundation’s BleedGood program, which promotes menstrual health, sustainable practices and access to eco-friendly, reusable menstrual products for women and girls across Sri Lanka. Through the initiative, Zonta advocates for dignity, education and sustainable solutions that directly impact women’s health and environmental wellbeing.

According to the club, 40–60% of women and girls in Sri Lanka face period poverty, while households spend an estimated 3.5% of their income monthly on menstrual products. 60% of girls miss school during their periods, and approximately 963 million single-use products are discarded each year, underscoring the urgency for sustainable and accessible alternatives.

More than 95 participants, including women, men and supporters from corporate and media partners, joined the walk. Funds raised will support community workshops and the provision of reusable menstrual solutions to women and girls in need.

Learn more here.