International Day of the Girl: Stories of Health, Hope, and Change
Celebrate International Day of the Girl with EngenderHealth
This International Day of the Girl (October 11), we honor the voices of adolescents in Bihar, India. Through EngenderHealth’s TARUNYA project, young leaders are tackling menstrual stigma, delaying early marriage, and reshaping their futures.
Their journeys are captured in Tarunya’s Legacy: 14 Portraits of Health, Hope, and Change for Bihar’s Adolescents—a powerful collection of portraits and stories that highlight what’s possible when girls and boys have knowledge, care, and community behind them.
14 Portraits of Health, Hope, and Change
Rupa Kumari — “Pad Bank” Pioneer
Rupa started a community Pad Bank to make menstrual products affordable and accessible. She has provided over 230 pads and opened conversations that dismantle stigma, while also sharing neonatal care guidance with families of newborn girls. Read Rupa’s full story.
Muskaan Priya — From Peer Educator to Youth Trainer
Initially reluctant to serve, Muskaan became a confident Peer Educator, then a Youth Trainer. Today she trains peer educators, ASHAs, and ANMs, and in 2023 represented Bihar at the G20 National Event. Read Muskaan’s full story.
Nitu & Prashant — Peer-Led Duo Shifting Norms
This dynamic pair model respectful, fact-based conversations about reproductive health. Together, they create safe spaces where girls and boys learn side by side and reduce stigma in their community. Read Nitu and Prashant’s full story.
Rahul Kumar — A Community Leader’s Journey
Rahul became a trusted mentor to adolescents in his community, guiding peers to youth-friendly services and advocating for health and rights. His leadership shows how boys and young men can champion change. Read Rahul’s full story.
Usha Kumari — Holding the Line Against Early Marriage
Despite family pressure and financial constraints, Usha delayed early marriage and pursued higher education. She now mentors other girls, showing them that school can remain within reach. Read Usha’s full story.
Chandni Kumari — From Student to Career Woman
Chandni overcame community barriers to education and now inspires younger girls to dream beyond traditional expectations by pursuing her own professional career path. Read Chadni’s full story.
Pankaj “Bhaiyya” — The Heartbeat of Adolescent Health in Gaya
Known affectionately as “Bhaiyya” (big brother), Pankaj has been a constant presence in adolescent health programs, ensuring that youth in Gaya access accurate information and supportive services. Read Pankaj’s full story.
Achal Kumar Singh — Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty
Achal’s journey reflects the challenges many young people face—balancing family responsibilities with health needs—yet his resilience demonstrates the strength of Bihar’s adolescents. Read Achal’s full story.
Divya Singh — A Trailblazer for Adolescent Health
Divya committed herself to championing adolescent health in her school and community, ensuring peers received accurate information on nutrition, reproductive health, and well-being. Read Divya’s full story.
Sujeet Kumar Verma — Transforming Wellness in the Classroom
Sujeet used his role as a teacher to bring health education into classrooms, encouraging open conversations and helping his students seek care. Read Sujeet’s full story.
Manju Devi — Shaping Minds One Slogan at a Time
With creativity and determination, Manju uses slogans and local campaigns to spark conversations about adolescent health and rights, showing how communication can change culture. Read Manju’s full story.
Sushila Kumari — An ASHA Worker’s Lasting Impact
As a frontline health worker, Sushila became a vital link between adolescents and the healthcare system, ensuring accurate information, respectful care, and support for families. Read Sushila’s full story.
Dr. Jha — Pioneering Government Progress
Dr. Jha played a key role in embedding adolescent health into government systems, ensuring policies and resources supported long-term change for youth in Bihar. Read Dr. Jha’s full story.
Vibha — Bringing Empathy to Adolescent Health
Through her work in the community, Vibha helps young people feel seen, heard, and supported while improving access to essential health services. Read Vibha’s full story.
Explore the full collection of stories in Tarunya’s Legacy: 14 Portraits of Health, Hope and Change for Bihar’s Adolescents and meet the champions transforming adolescent health in Bihar, India.