In the latest episode of "Sustainable Solutions with Planet Aid," hosts Monica Johnson and Haley Chitty welcome Christine Garde-Denning, founder and CEO of CouldYou?, a New York-based nonprofit organization addressing issues such as period poverty.
You can read the conversation highlights below, or listen to the podcast in full on Apple, Spotify, Substack, YouTube, or Planet Aid's website.
The first part of the discussion delves into the impactful work of CouldYou?, particularly focusing on its efforts to combat period poverty and mosquito-borne illnesses in Africa. Christine explains the origins of Could You?, which began in 2008, to connect people of integrity from the West with those in Africa to foster meaningful partnerships.
The organization initially focused on facilitating meetings and conversations between African leaders and individuals from America and Europe. This evolved into working in Mozambique, where they addressed the high illiteracy rate by partnering with local teachers to create a program that significantly improved literacy rates.
A pivotal moment for CouldYou? was when they were introduced to the issue of period poverty, which affects 500 million women and girls worldwide. Christine learned about the menstrual cup —a 10-year solution —and was driven to address this problem. She states, "I care about justice and I care about solutions and I care about common sense." The organization pivoted to focus on ending period poverty by distributing menstrual cups, which are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the role of local empowerment in achieving sustainability. Garde-Denning elaborated on how "CouldYou?" collaborates with local leaders and communities to understand their unique challenges and opportunities. By focusing on local solutions, the organization ensures that initiatives are culturally relevant and impactful.
The episode also addressed the challenges involved in implementing sustainable solutions. Christine also acknowledged the complexities of working in diverse environments and the importance of adaptability. “Sustainability is not a one-size-fits-all approach,” she explained, highlighting the need for tailored strategies that respect local customs and ecosystems.
Christine also highlights the challenges faced in scaling their solutions, particularly the misconception that menstrual cups are not suitable for the developing world. She emphasizes the importance of partnering with local communities and listening to their needs. "It's vital that before you do anything, you are in a community listening," she asserts.
CouldYou? has been working to publish data to prove the effectiveness of menstrual cups and has received support from organizations like the Gates Foundation.
The conversation also touches on the broader impact of menstrual equity. Christine notes that keeping girls in school can significantly boost local economies and improve community health. "When you educate a girl, actually, the women who are educated or the women who end up getting more empowered, women spend their money back in the community," she explains.
Christine's optimism shines through as she shares stories of young girls whose lives have been transformed by the menstrual cup. She remains hopeful about the future. "I want to end period poverty by 2040, and it's achievable," she declares.
The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to support Could You's? mission. Christine encourages people to follow the organization on social media, donate, and spread awareness about the issue and the solution. Sustainable Solutions host, Monica Johnson, emphasizes, "The more you talk about it, the more it'll be out there and somebody's going to connect with the purpose."
Christine's passion and dedication to making a difference are evident throughout the conversation. Her work with Could You? is a testament to the power of sustainable solutions and the impact they can have on communities around the world.
Watch the full episode of Sustainable Solutions with Planet Aid featuring Christine Garde-Denning, and stay tuned for our monthly podcast with other sustainable leaders.
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Finding your closest yellow donation bin
Joining Planet Aid’s School Program
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