Natan

In a vibrant community in Addis Ababa resides a remarkable 13-year-old named Natan.

Natan, a resilient and determined seventh grader, finds joy in her family and friends. She loves spending time with them, whether it's finding books at the library or just goofing around and making memories. "We laugh so hard that sometimes I feel like I'm going to burst!" Natan says.

Natan's friends and family commend her skills in various areas. They praise her for her academic performance, her athletic abilities in football and running, as well as her talent for poetry. Natan enjoys challenging herself academically by reading books, solving math problems, and expanding her knowledge. On the field, Natan excels in football, showcasing her dribbling and shooting skills, along with her speed and endurance in running. Through regular training, she has honed her abilities to a point where she can outperform anyone in her class. Additionally, Natan has a passion for poetry, and she often shares her creations with her loved ones, who find them beautiful and inspiring.

Natan is also deeply committed to her studies. Excelling in subjects like English and General Science, she embraces the opportunity to expand her knowledge and understanding of the world. Her dreams of becoming a doctor reflect her compassionate nature and desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. She envisions a future where she can alleviate the suffering of those in need and bring healing to her community.

When introduced to the Splash program at her school, she eagerly embraced the opportunity to learn about water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health. Under the guidance of her teacher, Natan and her classmates received training sessions on menstrual hygiene. They learned about the significance of using clean and safe materials, maintaining regular hand and body hygiene, and ensuring proper disposal of waste. Their teacher also provided insights on managing the pain and discomfort associated with periods, as well as coping mechanisms for any stigma or discrimination they might encounter. Encouraging an open dialogue, she urged them to ask questions, share experiences, and support each other through this journey. As a result, Natan and her peers gained confidence and comfort in understanding their bodies and maintaining good health. Through this knowledge, she strives to educate her family and friends, bridging the gap between awareness and action.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Natan is passionate about advocating for gender equity and social justice. She recognizes the importance of creating a world where every child has access to love, safety, and education. Her aspirations extend beyond the confines of her own life, as she envisions a future where poverty and inequality are eradicated, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.