In celebration of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, we hosted a Fireside Chat titled "Shattering Myths: Redefining Menstrual Health Conversations."

This important discussion tackled myths, stigma, and taboos around menstruation while advocating for Period Justice and strategies to end Period Poverty. It provided a safe and inspiring space to reshape how menstrual health is talked about, especially for youth and marginalized groups.

If you missed this enlightening session, don’t worry, you can still be part of the movement! Share this conversation with your network and encourage others to listen in. Let’s continue pushing for change together and ensure advocacy leads to real transformation.

We recently hosted an empowering Instagram Live event, “My Body, My Boundaries: Rethinking Sexual Freedom, Informed Choices & Consequences,” in commemoration of World Health Day 2025. This event aligned with the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” and created an open, judgment-free space to discuss sexual autonomy in a hypersexualized world.

We empowered young people to understand their sexual boundaries, the risks of uncritical sexual choices, and the power of informed decisions. Through honest dialogue, health education, and storytelling, we challenged harmful social trends, advocated for safer sexual practices, and promoted boundaries as essential to self-respect.

If you missed this enlightening session, don’t worry you can still be part of the movement! Share this conversation with your network and encourage others to listen in. Let’s continue pushing for change together and ensuring that advocacy leads to real transformation.

Our Voices Against Violence (VAV) online conversation returned with yet another powerful and insightful session, bringing together passionate voices to discuss real solutions for gender equality. Held in alignment with the International Women’s Day 2025 theme, “Accelerating Action: Bridging the Gap for Women and Girls' Rights Everywhere,” this discussion went beyond the usual conversations to tackle pressing questions on advocacy and action.

Throughout the session, participants explored critical topics such as:

* Moving beyond discussions to implement tangible change in gender equality.

* Identifying gaps in advocacy and strategies to address them.

* Practical steps individuals can take within their communities, whether in education, activism, or grassroots movements.

The conversation featured bold and inspiring voices at the forefront of gender justice, sharing their lived experiences and the impactful work they are leading. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking dialogue, gaining insights into the challenges and opportunities in advancing women's and girls' rights globally.

If you missed this enlightening session, don’t worry you can still be part of the movement! Share this conversation with your network and encourage others to listen in. Let’s continue pushing for change together and ensuring that advocacy leads to real transformation.

The Smile Outreach Foundation has launched its Youth and Adolescent Lab Fellowship, a groundbreaking program training youth advocates and addressing sexual and reproductive health issues in Nigeria.

The event, led by Emmanuella Imo, brought together experts and fellows from across the country to promote adolescent rights and challenge harmful practices. Keynote speaker Dr. Enow A.G. Stevens emphasized the power of education and digital tools like AMAZE Africa.

Advocates like Morenikejimi Olaniran, Goodness James, Otaria Benjamin, and Sisan Josephine Victor-Woko shared insights on mental health, education, storytelling, and advocacy. The fellowship aims to empower 10,000 adolescents annually, equipping young leaders to drive social change and tackle pressing issues like period poverty, child marriage, and gender-based violence.

This initiative marks a transformative step toward youth empowerment and community impact in Nigeria.

Welcome to the final episode of our three-part series on Tackling Gender Issues in Nigeria. In this powerful conclusion, we dive deep into the challenges and barriers hindering gender equality—and more importantly, the solutions that can drive real change.

In this episode, we are joined by:🎙️ Dorkong Rimdan – Founder of FemPawa, a menstrual hygiene advocate, and radio host.🎙️ Ayobamikale Borisade – Executive Director of The Girls Pride Initiatives for Sustainable Development.🎙️ Bidemi Adedire – Founder of The Smile Outreach, a communications strategist, and women’s empowerment advocate.

Together, we discuss:✨ The key challenges in advancing gender equity and how to overcome them.✨ The impactful programs these changemakers have implemented to promote gender equality.✨ The major outcomes of their work and how it has shaped communities.✨ Final words of encouragement and how listeners can support their initiatives.

Thank you for being part of this insightful journey! This marks the end of our three-part series, and we truly appreciate your time and engagement. If you're looking to partner with The Smile Outreach or support their initiatives, connect with us today!

🎧 Tune in now and let’s keep the conversation going. 🚀💜 #TheGoodCycle #PeriodFriendly #TSOGoodcycleinitiative

Welcome back to our special three-part series on Tackling Gender Issues in Nigeria. In this second episode, we dive deeper into the conversation on gender inequality, period poverty, and community-driven solutions.

We are joined by incredible changemakers:🎙️ Dorkong Rimdan – Founder of FemPawa, menstrual hygiene advocate, and radio host at CoolFM Abuja.🎙️ Ayobamikale Borisade – Executive Director of The Girls Pride Initiatives for Sustainable Development.🎙️ Bidemi Adedire – Founder of The Smile Outreach, communications strategist, and women’s empowerment advocate.

In this episode, we explore:🔹 How the media has influenced policies and community behavior around menstrual health, as emphasized by Dorkong Rimdan.🔹 The impact of the Cycle of Confidence guide by Ayobamikale Borisade, how it has been received in communities, and its role in reducing menstrual stigma.🔹 The link between period poverty and gender inequality, as discussed by Bidemi Adedire, who also sheds light on The Good Cycle initiative and its potential to be adapted globally to tackle period poverty.

It’s a thought-provoking discussion on breaking barriers and ensuring menstrual equity. Don’t miss the final part of this series—stay tuned!

#PeriodFriendly #FriendlyCycle #TheGoodCycle #PeriodGiving #TSOGoodCycleInitiative

Welcome to the first episode of our three-part series, Tackling Gender Issues in Nigeria. Gender inequality remains a significant challenge, affecting various aspects of life, from education and employment to healthcare and leadership. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done.

In this episode, we had an insightful conversation with incredible changemakers working at the grassroots level to bridge the gender gap:

🎙 Speakers:🔹 Dorkong Rimdan – Founder, FemPawa & Radio Host at Cool FM Abuja🔹 Ayobamikale Borisade – Executive Director, The Girls Pride Initiatives for Sustainable Development🔹 Bidemi Adedire – Founder, The Smile Outreach

Together, we explored the question: How have you experienced gender equality or inequality in your field? Our guests shared personal experiences from the media and nonprofit sectors, highlighting the barriers they’ve faced and how they are challenging societal norms.

This is just the beginning! Stay tuned for the next episode. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation using our event hashtags:

#PeriodFriendly #FriendlyCycle #TheGoodCycle #PeriodGiving #TSOGoodCycleInitiative

Let’s keep the dialogue going! See you in the next episode. 🚀✨

Dear Reader,

On October 24th, Bidemi Adedire, the inspiring founder of The Smile Outreach, sat down with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) to discuss the mission behind her organization and the pressing issues it tackles. From gender disparities to menstrual equity and cross-generational relationships, this interview shines a light on topics that rarely get the attention they deserve. Today, we’re sharing some insights from this powerful conversation.

About The Smile Outreach

The Smile Outreach was born out of a desire to empower communities through education and support,” Bidemi shared. Since its humble beginnings in 2018, what started as a small initiative has grown into a movement impacting thousands of young people and women. Through programs like the Hand-to-Mind Project and the Good Cycle Initiative, The Smile Outreach is reshaping the way communities view issues like menstrual health, sexual grooming, and harmful traditional practices.

Why We Fight for Gender Equality

When asked what drove her to address issues like gender inequality, cross-generational relationships, and menstrual inequity, Bidemi’s answer was simple yet powerful. She spoke of seeing firsthand how deeply interconnected these issues are and how they harm vulnerable groups, particularly young girls. Bidemi emphasized that by addressing root issues like sexual grooming, we can break cycles of exploitation and reduce gender-based violence. Education, awareness, and advocacy are at the heart of this fight, and The Smile Outreach is determined to change these narratives.

The Role of Education in Shaping Perspectives

Education is a catalyst for change. Bidemi highlighted how her generation has used education as a tool to challenge outdated gender roles, encouraging everyone to question stereotypes and embrace equality. This wasn’t always the case for older generations, where educational systems often reinforced traditional roles. By exposing young people to diverse perspectives, Bidemi believes that today’s education opens minds and dismantles the rigid gender boundaries of the past.

Empowering Women in Workplaces and Communities

Bidemi acknowledged the existing differences in how men and women are treated in workplaces and communities. She shared that in many workplaces, women face biases that prevent them from advancing as easily as their male counterparts. In rural communities, these gaps are even more pronounced. Men are often decision-makers, while women’s voices are sidelined. That’s why The Smile Outreach works to create spaces where women can lead, speak up, and have their contributions valued. As Bidemi explained, empowering women isn’t just about equity; it benefits the entire community.

The Cultural Impact on Gender Roles

Cultural upbringing plays a massive role in defining gender roles. Bidemi explained that boys and girls are often raised with different expectations, shaping their futures in ways that limit choices based on gender. She shared her optimism, though, noting that change is underway. More women are stepping into leadership roles, and younger generations are questioning harmful traditions. Programs like those at The Smile Outreach encourage both girls and boys to see beyond outdated gender norms, creating a ripple effect of change.

Navigating Generational Differences on Gender Equality

Communicating about gender issues across generations isn’t always easy. Bidemi shared that engaging younger generations is often a hands-on experience. Through the Hand-to-Mind Project, she uses tools like flashcards and role-playing to make learning interactive and memorable. With older generations, she approaches conversations with empathy, acknowledging that beliefs don’t shift overnight. Change takes time, and The Smile Outreach works hard to meet communities where they are, slowly creating spaces for open dialogue.

Technology and Social Media: A New Age of Awareness

Technology and social media have revolutionized how we discuss gender equality. For Bidemi’s generation, platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have created a global stage where gender issues can be discussed openly, uniting people around shared goals. She acknowledges that while older generations may find it challenging to adapt to these rapid shifts, social media has opened dialogues that wouldn’t have been possible before.

Traditional Gender Roles and Modern Views

When asked about the clash between traditional gender roles and modern views on gender equality, Bidemi provided a balanced perspective. She believes that while traditional roles often conflict with the desire for equality, there’s room for harmony if approached thoughtfully. By reframing traditional values in a way that supports mutual respect, she sees a future where roles are defined by individual strengths and choices, not by gender.

Closing Thoughts

Bidemi’s journey with The Smile Outreach is a testament to what can be achieved when we dare to challenge the status quo. Through education, advocacy, and a genuine commitment to change, she’s helping communities rethink gender roles and embrace a more inclusive future. The Smile Outreach’s work reminds us that gender equality isn’t just a goal—it’s a pathway to stronger, healthier communities.

Thank you for being part of this journey. As we continue to share stories of change, let’s remember the power of collective action. Together, we can create a world where every individual is free to reach their full potential.

Warm regards,

The Smile Outreach Team

Menstrual Justice and Period Poverty: A Global Crisis

In today’s episode, we dive into the pressing issue of menstrual injustice and period poverty, exploring how they impact women, girls, and all menstruators around the world.

Menstrual injustice is more than just a lack of access to products. It’s the stigma, shame, and systemic disadvantages that come from simply having a biological function. This issue affects not only women, but also transgender men, boys, and non-binary people who menstruate. And when you intersect this with poverty, race, and gender identity, the effects become even more severe, especially for those already marginalized by society.

Period poverty goes hand in hand with this. It refers to the inability to afford or access menstrual products, sanitation facilities, or even basic education about menstrual health. This isn’t just a problem in developing countries; even in more developed nations, many menstruators struggle to access the products they need.

The consequences of period poverty are far-reaching. Girls miss school because they lack access to pads or tampons, and this absenteeism can lead to them falling behind, or even dropping out altogether. Health risks, such as infections and poor mental health, are also common when menstruation isn’t properly managed. In extreme cases, some girls engage in transactional sex just to afford menstrual products, putting them at risk of exploitation and diseases like HIV.

But how do we tackle this global issue?

First, policy changes are essential. Governments can make a huge difference by removing taxes on menstrual products and providing free supplies in schools, prisons, and public facilities. Integrating menstrual hygiene into national policies can help break the cycle of shame and absenteeism.

Education is also key. We need open conversations about menstruation—breaking down the stigma and making sure both girls and boys understand what menstruation is and why it’s not something to be ashamed of.

One shining example of tackling menstrual injustice is The Good Cycle Initiative by The Smile Outreach. This initiative goes beyond simply providing menstrual products. It establishes Pad Stations, which act as hubs of education, advocacy, and entrepreneurship. These stations provide girls with access to pads, while also empowering them through knowledge and entrepreneurial opportunities, fostering self-reliance and dignity.

As we move toward a more equal world, addressing menstrual justice and period poverty isn’t just about products—it’s about empowerment, education, and dignity. Tackling these issues is a key step toward achieving gender equality and ensuring that no one is held back simply because they menstruate.

Disclaimer: This podcast was AI-generated with the help of NotebookLM.google.com and ChatGPT for podcast notes.

Understanding Sexual Grooming

Sexual grooming is a complicated issue that requires multiple approaches to tackle. It’s not just about strangers; perpetrators can be anyone, even people close to the victim, like family friends, coaches, or relatives. These predators exploit vulnerabilities and manipulate situations to gain control over their victims.

How Groomers Operate

One key aspect of addressing sexual grooming is understanding how groomers operate. They often use specific tactics to gain trust—offering gifts, praise, or filling an emotional void in a child’s life. It’s essential to educate young people about these tactics, help them recognize red flags, and teach them how to protect themselves. Open discussions about body autonomy, consent, and the right to say “no” are crucial steps in this education.

The Role of Parents and Communities

Parents, caregivers, and communities also play a critical role. Education should go beyond biology, covering the emotional and social aspects of relationships. This holistic approach empowers young people to make informed decisions and recognize both healthy and unhealthy behaviors.

Economic Exploitation and the “Sugar Daddy” Phenomenon

A significant challenge in many societies is the “sugar daddy phenomenon,” where economic vulnerability is exploited by predators. In places where poverty is prevalent, young people may enter relationships with older individuals for financial support or gifts. Addressing these economic disparities is key to breaking the cycle of exploitation.

The Long-Lasting Impact of Grooming

The effects of sexual grooming are long-lasting. Victims often deal with emotional trauma, including confusion, guilt, and shame, which can impact their future relationships and overall well-being. This is why intervention is so important.

The Sexual Grooming Solution

One approach to combat sexual grooming is the “Sexual Grooming Solution,” which focuses on education, empowerment, and community involvement. It emphasizes equipping young people and their communities with the tools to recognize grooming tactics, support for survivors, and fostering a vigilant culture within communities.

Goals of the Sexual Grooming Solution

The main goals of this solution are to:

• Increase Awareness: Educating adolescents and trusted adults about grooming tactics.

• Equip for Resistance: Providing the resources and knowledge to help individuals resist grooming.

• Foster Open Discussions: Creating safe spaces where conversations about sexual health and relationships can happen.

• Develop Advocates: Building a network of trained advocates to expand the program’s reach.

Gender Inequality and Sexual Grooming in Nigeria

Gender inequality plays a significant role in the prevalence of sexual grooming in places like Nigeria. In societies where male promiscuity is normalized, while women are held to different standards, older men may feel entitled to relationships with younger women. This power imbalance, coupled with economic vulnerability, often leads to exploitative relationships.

Victim-Blaming and Power Imbalances

Victim-blaming also thrives in these environments, where girls and women are expected to protect themselves rather than focusing on the actions of the perpetrator. This makes it difficult for victims to come forward, allowing predators to continue their abusive behaviors.

The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Education

Additionally, the lack of comprehensive sexual education leaves young people, especially girls, vulnerable to manipulation. Without the proper knowledge about consent and healthy relationships, many fall prey to exploitative individuals. While some policies support sexual health education, many focus on abstinence, neglecting the broader needs of young people, particularly girls.

Cultural Norms and Grooming

Cultural norms can also blur the lines between genuine affection and exploitation. In some cases, the exchange of gifts in romantic relationships is seen as normal, making it harder to distinguish grooming from consensual relationships. Family honor and cultural expectations often silence victims, especially when abuse involves someone close to the family.

A Path Forward: Combating Sexual Grooming

To combat sexual grooming, it’s necessary to promote gender equality, strengthen legal protections for women and girls, and provide comprehensive sexual education that includes consent and bodily autonomy. Engaging men and boys in these conversations is equally important, as it helps dismantle harmful gender norms.

Empowering Communities for Vigilance

Empowering communities to support victims and be vigilant about grooming is another vital step. By fostering open dialogue, we can create environments where it’s easier to recognize and stop grooming before it escalates.

Conclusion: A Collective Effort

In conclusion, fighting sexual grooming requires a collective effort from all levels of society. By addressing the root causes of gender inequality, empowering young people with the right tools, and supporting survivors, we can work toward a safer future for everyone.

Disclaimer: This podcast was AI-generated with the help of NotebookLM.google.com and ChatGPT for podcast notes.