HerMentorUg

This project seeks to address the lack of comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) knowledge and services for girls in Uganda, particularly those in marginalized areas. In Uganda, and globally, millions of girls lack access to accurate information and resources related to SRHR. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), approximately 800 million women and girls between the ages of 15 and 49 menstruate each day, and a significant portion of them face barriers to proper menstrual hygiene management. In Uganda, these challenges are pronounced, particularly in rural communities, where limited access to education and healthcare exacerbates the issue. Approximately 57% of girls in Uganda do not have access to sanitary pads, making it a significant challenge for them to manage menstruation safely and hygienically. This issue has wide-reaching implications, impacting not only the educational and personal development of girls but also their overall health and well-being.

Some of the factors that contribute to this problem include lack of comprehensive SRHR Education, Inadequate Access to Sanitary Products, and predominantly, Stigma and Taboos. There is limited SRHR education in Ugandan schools, which often fails to cover menstrual hygiene, contraception, and other essential topics. Also deep-seated cultural and social stigmas around menstruation often discourage girls from seeking information and support, leading to a lack of knowledge and self-confidence. Moreso, limited access to affordable menstrual products prevents girls from effectively managing their menstruation, leading to health risks and absenteeism from school.

Our solution, HerMentorUg,  addresses these problems comprehensively by offering a platform for girls to access accurate SRHR information, filling the knowledge gap. Through online curriculum, resources and offline outreach, we provide girls with information on safe menstrual hygiene practices. Our personalized mentorship helps to break down the stigma and create a supportive environment by connecting girls in underserved areas with essential mentors while also educating them on alternatives and best practices.

Our program recognizes the severe consequences of this problem, including high school dropout rates due to lack of menstrual hygiene knowledge and inadequate access to SRHR information and services. We aim to empower girls in Uganda with the knowledge, support, and skills they need to overcome these challenges, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

In the communities we target, which include rural and remote areas in Uganda, thousands of girls are affected by the lack of SRHR information and support. By providing comprehensive mentorship and education, we aim to positively impact the lives of these girls, potentially reducing dropout rates, improving overall health, and fostering personal development. Our program's scope is adaptable, and our ambition extends to other regions facing similar issues globally. 

By bridging the gap in SRHR information and support, HerMentorUg seeks to empower young girls to take control of their health and futures, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more informed, and more empowered generation of women.

Our solution, HerMentorUg, is a comprehensive online platform designed to empower girls in Uganda about their Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). This innovative initiative provides an easily accessible space where girls can gain accurate information, guidance, and support on SRHR topics, particularly focusing on menstrual hygiene, contraception, and general health education. The platform leverages mentorship from older university students and recent graduates who serve as mentors, sharing their experience and offering guidance and support to young girls.

At its core, HerMentorUg connects girls with vital SRHR information from experts. It is a user-friendly platform that can be accessed from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The platform provides a rich array of educational resources, including articles, videos, forums, and interactive tools that cover a wide range of SRHR topics. This content is tailored to be both informative and engaging, allowing Ugandan girls to acquire knowledge at their own pace and according to their specific needs.

The heart of this initiative is the network of skilled mentorship . Here, girls are matched with mentors who guide, educate, and inspire them. These mentors are older university students and recent graduates who understand the unique challenges and questions that young girls may face. Through personalized mentorship, girls receive support and encouragement, helping them build confidence and make informed decisions about their SRHR. Our platform is built using web development technologies to ensure accessibility. We also employ a customized mentor-mentee matching algorithm to ensure compatibility between mentors and mentees. Interactive educational tools and content are designed to engage and educate girls effectively, making learning both informative and enjoyable.

In areas where digital access is limited, our initiative does not stop at the online platform. Dedicated volunteers from Girls Alive Uganda (our non-profit initiative addressing menstrual needs of vulnerable girls in rural areas in Uganda)  personally reach out to these communities, ensuring that no girl is left behind. These volunteers provide girls with essential SRHR information and resources, bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive access. To further empower the girls, we also organize skill-building workshops. These workshops are designed to equip girls with life skills and guidance on career development. By offering comprehensive support beyond SRHR knowledge, we aim to foster holistic personal development and help girls realize their full potential.

HerMenterUg serves as a beacon of hope to Ugandan girls, by offering a safe and supportive environment where girls can access knowledge, receive mentorship, and build essential life skills. By bridging the gap in SRHR information and support, our initiative empowers young girls to take control of their health and futures. We envision a future where HerMentorUg is an integral part of the journey for Ugandan girls, enabling them to make informed decisions, stay in school, and pursue their dreams. With your support, we can make this vision a reality, guiding and inspiring the next generation of women in Uganda towards a brighter, more empowered future. 

HerMentorUg is aimed at serving girls in Uganda, with a particular emphasis on those residing in underserved areas. These young girls face unique challenges related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and often lack access to comprehensive information, mentorship, and support. Many of them are in the formative stages of their lives, grappling with the transitions of adolescence and puberty. However, their journey is often marked by obstacles stemming from societal norms, cultural taboos, and limited access to essential information and services.

Menstrual hygiene is another critical area where girls in Uganda face challenges. Access to sanitary products is limited, and many are unaware of proper menstrual hygiene practices. This leads to potential health risks and social stigma, as some girls may be forced to miss school during their menstrual cycles. Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive SRHR education in schools can lead to school absenteeism and even dropout rates. Girls may miss classes due to menstruation or struggle with the consequences of not having access to accurate information about SRHR.

Our solution, HerMentorUg is designed to bridge these significant gaps in support and resources for these underserved girls. The online platform serves as a knowledge hub, offering a wealth of resources and information on a range of SRHR topics. It provides a safe and accessible space for girls to gain accurate knowledge and fill the existing gaps in their understanding. The mentorship component of our initiative connects girls with mentors who understand their unique challenges. These mentors who are older university students and recent graduates serve as role models, guiding and inspiring the girls. They provide the support and encouragement that might be lacking in their communities, fostering self-confidence and self-assured decision-making.

HerMentorUg offers more than just knowledge; it provides practical life skills and guidance on career development. These workshops empower girls to make informed choices, build self-esteem, and set ambitious goals for their future. We ensure that girls are educated about safe menstrual hygiene practices through both the online platform and offline outreach. This education reduces the risk of health problems and promotes self-assurance in girls. HerMentorUg is committed to working directly and meaningfully to improve the lives of girls in Uganda, especially those residing in underserved areas. Our goal is to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and make informed decisions about their health, education, and personal development. By addressing these pressing needs, we aspire to foster a brighter, healthier, and more empowered future for these young girls. Our solution is a beacon of hope, offering a path toward a future filled with knowledge, confidence, and endless possibilities for girls across Uganda.

Our team at Girls Alive Uganda (our outreach initiative)  is uniquely positioned to design and deliver the HerMentorUg platform because we are deeply rooted in the communities we serve. Founded with a mission to empower and uplift young girls in Uganda, Girls Alive Uganda has been working closely with these communities for years. Our organization has established trust, understanding, and rapport with the girls, their families, and the community leaders, giving us invaluable insight into their needs, challenges, and aspirations.

Our Team Lead, who has been an integral part of Girls Alive Uganda since its inception, hails from the very communities we aim to serve. Growing up in similar circumstances as the girls we support, she intimately understands the challenges they face. Her personal experience provides a unique perspective that drives our initiatives, ensuring they are not just well-intentioned but also deeply empathetic and relevant. To truly understand the needs of our target population, we employ a participatory approach. We conduct extensive community engagement sessions, open dialogues, and focus group discussions. These interactions serve as a foundation for our project design, allowing us to tailor the HerMentorUg platform to meet the specific challenges faced by girls in Uganda.

Importantly, our team actively involves community members, including girls, parents, teachers, and local leaders, in the co-creation process. We listen intently to their insights, ideas, and concerns. Regular town hall meetings and consultations are held to ensure that the platform's design is guided by the community's input. From the choice of topics covered on the platform to the structure of mentorship programs, every aspect is shaped by their feedback.

Moreover, we have established strong partnerships with local NGOs, schools, and community organizations, ensuring a collaborative effort that is deeply embedded in the communities we serve. By working hand-in-hand with these local entities, we ensure that our initiatives align with the existing community resources and support networks, creating a sustainable and impactful solution. The design and implementation of HerMentorUg is not just community-informed but community-driven. Through our ongoing dialogue, we empower the girls to express their needs and desires openly, ensuring that the platform is not only a source of information but also a reflection of their dreams and aspirations. By placing the community at the heart of our solution, we are confident that our approach will resonate deeply, fostering meaningful change and empowerment for girls in Uganda.

Girls Alive Uganda has actively reached out to vulnerable communities in Ggaba, Mbuya, and Bweyogerere. Their outreach initiatives involve engaging directly with girls in these areas, offering crucial information and support related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Volunteers visit these communities to provide educational resources, conduct workshops, and create a safe space for open discussions about SRHR. These outreach efforts have not only filled knowledge gaps but have also helped break down social stigmas surrounding these topics.

In partnership with institutions like Kisoko High School, Girls Alive Uganda has extended its mentorship programs to girls within the school system. University students and recent graduates serve as mentors, providing one-on-one guidance, sharing knowledge, and inspiring girls to pursue their educational and personal goals. These mentorship programs have proven instrumental in building the confidence and self-esteem of girls, encouraging them to stay in school, and equipping them with valuable life skills.

Our platform offers a safe space where girls can access vital information on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). In a society where stigmas and taboos often shroud these topics, HerMentorUg provides a refuge where girls can seek answers without fear or judgment. It's not just a website; it's a haven for girls to explore, learn, and connect with mentors who understand their unique challenges.What truly sets HerMentorUg apart is its capacity to change the narrative for girls in Uganda. By harnessing the power of digital technology, it shatters geographical barriers. Girls in remote areas and underserved communities can now access mentorship and SRHR information that was previously out of reach. This inclusivity is a game-changer, widening the horizons for countless young girls.

Underpinning this innovation is cutting-edge tech. Algorithms power the mentor-mentee matching process, ensuring that the mentorship is personalized and effective. The online platform is user-friendly, accessible from various devices, and offers a wealth of resources, including articles, videos, and interactive tools. The use of technology not only enhances accessibility but also tracks progress and gathers data for continuous improvement.

We have set ambitious impact goals that are tightly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over the next two - five years, HerMentorUg, a 

Girls Alive Uganda’s goals represent a comprehensive approach to uplift the lives of girls in Uganda and create lasting change. 

HerMentorUg aims to equip 50,000 girls with comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) knowledge. Achieving this goal involves a commitment to providing accessible online resources and organizing offline workshops. The platform will also focus on continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure that knowledge is not only disseminated but also comprehended and applied effectively.

The goal is to match 10,000 girls with experienced mentors who provide guidance and support. HerMentorUg recognizes that mentorship is a pivotal component of empowering girls. By employing technology to personalize mentor-mentee matches, the platform ensures that mentors are well-suited to address the specific needs and aspirations of each girl. It will also actively involve the community in the recruitment and mentorship process.

To contribute to a 20% reduction in school dropout rates among girls, HerMentorUg focuses on fostering confidence and self-esteem through mentorship. Keeping girls in school is vital for their long-term well-being. The platform will engage with schools, parents, and local communities to advocate for the value of education and support for girls.

HerMentorUg is committed to ensuring that 80% of the girls have access to proper menstrual hygiene practices. By leveraging both online resources and offline outreach, the platform will educate girls on safe menstrual hygiene practices, ultimately striving to provide menstrual products to those in need.

HerMentorUg aims to establish partnerships with 10 local NGOs and community organizations. Recognizing the power of collaboration, the platform will actively engage with local NGOs, educational institutions, and government bodies. These partnerships will serve to amplify the reach and impact of HerMentorUg, promoting girls' empowerment on a larger scale.

To ensure long-term sustainability, HerMentorUg's goal is to raise $100,000 in funds. This is a crucial element to secure the future of the initiative. The platform will actively seek grants, donations, and community support while showcasing the tangible impact it is making to secure financial contributions.

10 people work on the innovation, 4 full time staff including CEO, Finance, Project Coordinator, and Volunteer Lead. We have 2 part time including Website Developer and Communications Lead, 2 Contractors including Legal person and Administrator and other workers Mentorship Coordinator and Curriculum Developer. 

2019 - Present

We recognize the importance of not only educating girls but also involving boys in the process. By fostering awareness and understanding among both genders, the platform strives to break down gender stereotypes, encourage mutual respect, and promote healthy relationships. This approach is aligned with SDG 4, Quality Education, which emphasizes inclusivity in the learning process.

The initiative actively involves parents and local communities in its efforts. By engaging with parents, HerMentorUg aims to bridge the gap between generations, fostering conversations on SRHR and gender equality within families. These discussions encourage parents to support their children's education and personal development, breaking down traditional barriers. Involving the broader community not only ensures the sustainability of the initiative but also promotes a collective sense of responsibility for girls' well-being.

By collaborating with community leaders, HerMentorUg gains local insights and support. These leaders play a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality and breaking down societal norms that may be barriers to girls' education and empowerment. This approach aligns with SDG 5, Gender Equality, by working with local leaders to promote gender equity and women's empowerment.

Through educating both boys and girls in schools, fostering open dialogues with parents and communities, and collaborating with local leaders, the platform is addressing the root causes of gender inequality. It's not just about empowering girls; it's about changing mindsets, promoting inclusivity, and driving social transformation in pursuit of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. HerMentorUg recognizes that a truly equitable and inclusive society can only be achieved through comprehensive and collaborative efforts.