MYNA’s NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER

Dear Readers,

At Myna Mahila Foundation, I’ve seen the transformative power of a positive organizational culture. It is the invisible thread binding us together, shaping how we work, relate, and create impact. In our nonprofit, driven by passion and purpose, cultivating a thriving culture isn’t optional—it’s essential. Our culture directly influences how we empower women, advocate for change, and foster a workplace where every team member feels valued. A strong culture translates to higher morale, deeper engagement, and a collective sense of purpose. However, it doesn’t happen overnight. It requires effort and
commitment from leadership and every individual.

Leading by Example: Leadership sets the tone by modeling open communication and embodying values like respect and inclusivity.

Encouraging Open Dialogue: We prioritize feedback and ensure everyone feels heard, creating a space for innovation and growth.

Celebrating Diversity: While predominantly women-led, we welcome diverse talents who align with our mission, embracing unique backgrounds and perspectives.

Recognizing Effort: Celebrating achievements, big or small, fosters belonging and motivation, reinforcing that every contribution matters.

Providing Growth Opportunities: Offering skill-building and career development shows our investment in team members’ success, fueling their commitment.

Ultimately, building and sustaining a positive culture is a shared responsibility. It’s reflected in everyday actions, fostering empathy, collaboration, and accountability. Together, we strengthen not just our organization but our impact on the communities we serve—a collective journey we’re all part of.

Warm regards,
Aayushi Darshana
Head of Human Resources

Highlights of the Month

Impactful Community and College Outreach:

Through our Teach Menses India (TMI) Community intervention, we engaged 457 women in aspiration-building sessions, 430 women in physical health sessions, and 830 in mental health sessions. Our Myna Champs were instrumental in inspiring behavior change through personal storytelling.

Through Teach Menses India (TMI) College sessions, we reached 2,480 students despite challenges like Diwali vacations, elections, and exams. We’re excited to have also secured permission to begin sessions with more colleges in the coming months.

Enhanced Health Access through Myna Clinic:

Through our Myna Clinic, we treated 443 patients in November, including 258 new ones. From follow-ups to addressing gynecological conditions such as abnormal vaginal discharge and irregular periods, we ensured comprehensive care that continues to transform lives.

Hear Our Beneficiaries

I found out I was getting irregular periods….

Raza Khan* is a 22 year old unmarried girl living with her parents in Gautam Nagar a slum in Govandi, dropped out of school when she was 14 years old and has studied only till the 8th standard. She lives in a big family with her parents and 5 siblings.

When she first joined the Myna sessions about physical health awareness, she had no idea what periods really meant or their connection to reproduction. It was after attending the session and watching the videos on Myna’s M-Health application, she realized that her own periods are irregular. She was surprised to know that this isn’t common and it’s a sign of some underlying health issue. So far she had just assumed that this is what happened to all women around her.

“I had no one to talk about this, my own mother and sisters were also not much aware. I was always shy and I didn’t feel like telling my father that I wanted to see a doctor. It was a difficult topic to talk about. I was afraid that the doctor will tell there is some problem with me.”

She decided to schedule an appointment and consult a doctor to understand more about her problems. She booked a telehealth appointment through our M-Health app and received relevant advice.

And that’s how a shy and reserved Raza, became a chatty Myna and took charge of her own physical health breaking all bounds of shame and fear.

*name changed for privacy reasons

Our Cheerleaders!

“Learning how many young girls in India miss or leave school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products or awareness, I was shocked—I knew I had to help,” says Laurie Schermbrucker, who chose to support Myna Mahila Foundation with a 3,000 km virtual cycling challenge across India.

Joined by her friends Sarah and Reuben, Laurie raised over €3,000 (~2.6 Lakhs), tripling their initial goal while sparking conversations about menstrual health. “One of the greatest parts of this journey was the conversations it started with friends and colleagues who were unaware of this issue,” Laurie shared.

We’re deeply grateful for their dedication and are glad to have them as part of the Myna family. Thank you, Laurie, for pedaling towards change!

Expanding the Myna Family

This month, we are thrilled to welcome exceptional new members to our team, each poised to enrich our diverse initiatives with their unique talents and expertise:

Shrestha Deb Roy: Joining as the Partnerships and Philanthropic Engagement Manager, Shrestha is committed to fostering meaningful collaborations and driving impactful funding partnerships for our foundation.

Rasika Tadas: As our new Research Associate (Data), Rasika will play a pivotal role in analyzing program outcomes and supporting evidence-based decision-making to enhance our impact.

Amreen Mirza: Returning to Myna as a Nurse, Amreen is dedicated to providing compassionate care and critical medical support, ensuring the success of our health-focused programs.