The journey to overcome one of the world’s most pervasive taboos is proof that no divide is impossible to bridge.

Written in short, evocative chapters, The Power of Days tells the story of Mergens’s quest to rally a global response to elevate menstrual health, increase universal access to menstrual supplies, shatter stigma through education, and advocate for global policy change. Raised in poverty, Mergens learned early on that building the life she wanted would take equal parts determination and humility, traits that led her to create the kinds of inclusive conversations and solutions she is known for around the globe.

The challenges Mergens faced and the lessons she learned, personally and professionally, and the triumphs and resourcefulness of leaders all over the globe are illuminating to all who wish to make a difference and create a more equitable world.

Today, Days for Girls reaches more than 3 million women and girls in 145 countries. The organization’s impact continues to grow, proving that small changes can create big shifts. This journey to overcome one of the world’s most prevalent taboos is proof that no divide is impossible to bridge.

Learn more about DaysforGirls.org

Every month, millions of girls and women around the world miss school and work during their periods because they don’t have access to menstrual products.

In 2008, Celeste Mergens was working with an overcrowded orphanage on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya, when she learned that menstruating girls sat on cardboard in their rooms for several days each month because they did not have what they needed to manage their periods. This set into motion a simple idea—combining a washable, long-lasting pad with taboo-breaking education, and became an unlikely global movement for equity: The award-winning nonprofit, Days for Girls.