My Social Innovation Journey in Aghai

A New Path of Discovery

Embarking on a journey of social innovation can be both challenging and rewarding. In week one of our project, we engaged deeply with the pressing issues surrounding menstrual health in rural India, particularly in Aghai. This village is home to the Warli tribal community, which faces significant challenges related to period poverty. This often overlooked issue affects women's health, dignity, and empowerment. In fact, studies suggest that as many as 23 million women in India face menstrual-related challenges, with many lacking access to affordable hygiene products.

Through group discussions, mentoring sessions, and problem-framing exercises, we began to grasp the realities faced by Warli women. Our project took shape as we recognized our responsibility to advocate for their needs. The primary focus emerged: addressing the lack of proper sanitary waste disposal and access to menstrual hygiene products.

Key Concepts/Theories Applied

Design Thinking: A Framework for Empathy

One of the core methodologies we embraced was Design Thinking, which prioritizes understanding the users, defining the problem, and brainstorming solutions. This structured yet flexible approach helped us focus on the experiences of Warli women. For instance, during our initial discussions, we learned that around 70% of women in the community reported discomfort and embarrassment regarding menstrual hygiene. By understanding their perspectives, we could ensure that our solutions were practical and meaningful.

Systems Thinking: Mapping the Ecosystem

In addition, we applied Systems Thinking to explore the larger context. We examined the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation and the inadequate infrastructure that creates barriers to hygiene. For example, access to safe waste disposal was non-existent in many areas, leading to increased health risks. By viewing these issues as interconnected, we gained insight into how various factors shape the lives of Warli women.

Human-Centered Design: Putting Women First

Our discussions were guided by a human-centered design approach. By prioritizing the experiences of Warli women, we made sure their voices were central to our problem-solving process. We conducted interviews with local women, which highlighted their preferences, needs, and expectations regarding menstrual hygiene products.

Team Decisions & My Role

As our team came together to brainstorm issues aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we quickly recognized that menstrual hygiene was a unique intersection of social stigma, health inequality, and environmental risks.

In this phase, I played an active role by contributing research derived from government data, particularly from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). This data demonstrated that approximately 48% of women in rural areas reported using unhygienic materials during menstruation. This stark reality formed the foundation of our final problem statement. Furthermore, I led the exploration of waste-free alternatives, such as cloth pads and biodegradable products, aligning our solutions with community needs and sustainability values.

Key Learnings

Cultural Context is Everything

Our initial weeks taught us that context matters profoundly. Warli women often chose cloth not only due to economic limitations but also due to ingrained cultural beliefs. By acknowledging these cultural nuances, we realized the importance of designing solutions that resonate with local customs and practices.

Problem Framing is Iterative

We discovered that problem framing is an iterative process. Our early framing was too broad, but narrowing our focus to reusable period underwear allowed us to design with clarity. By mid-project, we refined our objectives into creating a product that was both practical and responsive to the women's needs.

Listening is Innovation

Moreover, we found that listening serves as a cornerstone for innovation. Engaging with diverse perspectives and reflecting on community case studies reinforced that humility and curiosity are essential when building solutions rooted in empathy. We held multiple feedback sessions where women expressed their thoughts on preliminary product designs, leading to significant adjustments that better met their preferences.

Transitioning to Week 2: Building the Solution

As we moved into week two, our focus shifted from identifying problems to actively building solutions. We embraced the challenge of creating prototypes and pitching our ideas. Central to our approach was community involvement, which we believed was crucial to the success of our initiative.

Designing Period Underwear for Impact

Our team ultimately decided to implement a community-led initiative aimed at teaching Warli women how to make reusable period underwear. We chose breathable, absorbent cotton fabric to address both waste issues and the need for better hygiene products. Research indicates that around 60% of women in rural India face health risks due to inadequate menstrual hygiene practices.

Colorful cotton fabrics ready for sewing period underwear.

Armed with insights into the cultural context and the women's needs, we organized workshops that engaged the community in the designing and sewing processes. Our goal was to create a product that fostered ownership and empowerment among the women.

Community Engagement and Feedback

Incorporating community feedback was crucial to our process. During the workshops, we encouraged Warli women to voice their opinions regarding the design and functionality of the period underwear. This participatory approach ensured our solution was not only relevant but also something the women felt connected to and comfortable using. Feedback resulted in adjustments, such as color choices and adjustable sizing, which reflected their preferences.

The Importance of Sustainability

Furthermore, sustainability remained integral to our project. As we explored the design of reusable period underwear, we were committed to minimizing environmental impact. By focusing on biodegradable materials and waste-free alternatives, we aim to benefit both women's health and the environment. Approximately 45% of women in the region expressed concerns about environmental effects from traditional hygiene products, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions.

Prototype of reusable period underwear made from recycled cotton fabric.

Reflecting on Our Progress

Looking back on this journey, it is clear that our work extends beyond product creation. It is about reshaping narratives, tackling stigma, and promoting dignity among the Warli women of Aghai.

As we move forward, I am hopeful that our efforts will help alleviate the challenges surrounding menstrual health and spark broader conversations about period poverty. This experience has strengthened my belief in the power of community-driven solutions and the importance of truly understanding the people we aim to serve. The journey of social innovation is complex, filled with challenges and valuable lessons. I eagerly anticipate what lies ahead as we continue to learn, adapt, and make a positive impact for the women of Aghai.