October 07, 2023

Key Takeaways from Our Period Poverty Fundraiser in Hong Kong

Empowered, Period is not just a campaign; it is an ongoing journey towards change. Through sponsorship from corporates, schools and individuals, the Empowered, Period campaign aims to support 500 underserved women, girls and people with periods in Hong Kong with up to one year of period care, alleviating the financial burden of menstruation, and destigmatizing menstrual health for all.

On June 1st we held an impactful fundraising event that brought together individuals and organizations to combat period poverty in Hong Kong. Here, we share key takeaways from the event, in the hopes these will inspire you to join the movement for menstrual equity.

Key Takeaway 1: Culturally Considerate Approaches to Period Poverty

At the event, representatives from our charity partners, including The Zubin Foundation, Pathfinders, Peduli Kashi, Refugee Union, and Free Periods HK , shed light on the profound impact of period poverty. We discovered the diverse experiences of individuals from various communities, specifically refugees and domestic migrant workers in Hong Kong, emphasizing the importance of considering cultural and background factors when addressing this issue. For instance, some cultures may not accept the use of menstrual cups, rendering reusable products impractical as a solution. Additionally, limited access to hygiene facilities further complicates the implementation of reusable options. It's clear that a one-size-fits-all approach won't suffice in tackling period poverty.

Key Takeaway 2: Empowered Student Ambassadors Driving Change for Menstrual Equity

During the event, our audience was captivated by the remarkable student ambassadors representing schools across Hong Kong, such as King George V School, West Island School, Hong Kong International School and Malvern College. Also in attendance to support the cause were staff and students from Canadian International School, Nord Anglia College and Chinese International School. These young changemakers shared their inspiring initiatives aimed at promoting menstrual equity. Their projects ranged from impactful fundraisers to combat period poverty to advocating for free menstrual products on their school campuses. Witnessing their dedication and creativity left the audience in awe and reinforced the power of youth in driving positive change.

Key Takeaway 3: How Can Hong Kongers Support Communities in Need, Beyond the Event and the Campaign?

As the event drew to a close, Rachael Shek, Partner at HSF law firm in Hong Kong, posed a thought-provoking question to conclude the night: "What is one thing we can all do to better support you?" The responses from the charities highlighted three essential areas: curiosity, compassion, and commitment.

Curiosity: The first step towards supporting marginalized communities is to be curious. Valensia from Peduli Kasih emphasized the importance of looking beyond stereotypes and recognizing the hopes and dreams of domestic migrant workers. By seeking to understand the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds, we can break down barriers and foster empathy.
Compassion: Once we have gained knowledge and understanding, it is crucial to demonstrate compassion. The experiences of individuals from these communities should evoke empathy and a genuine desire to make a difference. By empathizing with their challenges and struggles, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society.
Commitment: The final key to supporting marginalized communities is a commitment to taking action. This commitment can manifest in various forms: dedicating time, offering resources, and, most importantly, providing funding. Financial support is vital in breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to thrive. Consider donating directly to the organizations mentioned earlier in this post to contribute to their impactful work.

Finally, thank you.

Thank you to Soho House for kindly hosting the event at their amazing House Studio. As well as our primary sponsors Schroders and Woolworths, as well as secondary sponsors Herbert Smith Freehills, Mayer Brown, Walkers, and Hong Kong Sports Clinic. These corporate partnerships serve as a testament to our collective effort to address period poverty and ensuring menstrual equity for all. A special thank you to Asher Chan for donating her time to take the wonderful photos featured in this blog.

How to Contribute to #MenstrualEquity: Take Action Today!

Sponsor Change: Make a meaningful impact by supporting our Empowered, Period campaign. You can sponsor one or more individuals in need by visiting this link. Every contribution helps us provide access to essential menstrual care and combat period poverty. Sponsorship ends on July 1st.
Be an Advocate: Help create a sustainable future by advocating for menstrual equity in your workplace or school. Take the initiative by filling out this form to promote the use of environmentally friendly menstrual care products. Your voice can make a difference!
Spread the Word: Amplify our message and raise awareness about menstrual equity by sharing this post on your social media platforms. Tag our Instagram (IG: @luuna.care) or LinkedIn (@luuna) pages to connect with our community and encourage others to join the cause. Together, we can break the stigma and foster a more inclusive society.

Your support and engagement are crucial in achieving menstrual equity for all. Join us in this empowering journey towards a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier to dignity and opportunity. Let's make a difference today!