HerFlow Foundation proudly participated in the Institute for Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) Research Day Expo, held at the University of the West Indies, Mona (UWI) Undercroft on March 13, 2025. The event, themed “Research for All Women and Girls in Jamaica,” provided a platform for advocates, researchers, and policymakers to explore key gender issues, with a strong focus on menstrual equity and period poverty.
HerFlow’s Executive Director, Shelly-Ann Weeks, shared critical insights from the Foundation’s ongoing research on period poverty in Jamaican public schools, engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with United Nations Resident Coordinator for Jamaica, Dennis Zulu, and Dr. Delea Bean, Head of IGDS, alongside other notable guests.
Weeks emphasized that period poverty continues to be a major barrier to education and well-being for many Jamaican girls. She stressed the importance of research in shaping policies and interventions that address menstrual health inequities, ensuring that no girl is forced to miss school due to lack of access to menstrual products.
“Our research has shown that period poverty is a significant barrier to education and overall well-being for many Jamaican girls,” said Shelly-Ann Weeks. “By bringing this data to forums like the IGDS Research Day Expo, we are ensuring that menstrual equity remains a priority in national conversations on gender and education. Research is the foundation of change, and we are committed to using these findings to drive sustainable solutions.”
Zulu underscored the urgent need to prioritize menstrual equity as a human rights issue, noting that no girl’s education should be disrupted due to limited access to menstrual products. He highlighted the significance of research-driven advocacy in creating effective solutions and ensuring that the necessary policies are in place to support women and girls.
Dr. Delea Bean, IDGS’ Head, reinforced the essential role of research in gender advocacy, pointing out that data-driven insights help to dismantle barriers and inform meaningful policy changes. She noted that by understanding the challenges faced by women and girls, institutions and stakeholders can work collaboratively to create a more equitable society.
HerFlow’s research has examined the impact of period poverty on school attendance, academic performance, and mental health, with a final report set to be published soon. The Foundation remains committed to driving awareness, advocacy, and action to ensure that no girl is held back due to lack of menstrual resources. The expo also featured impactful organizations such as I’m Glad I’m A Girl Foundation, Jamaica AIDS Support for Life, UN Women, UNDP, UNFPA, and the Ministry of Gender, all working towards gender equity through research and advocacy.
Through collaborations like this, HerFlow continues to bridge the gap between research and action, ensuring that menstrual health remains a central issue in Jamaica’s gender development agenda.
