Aadvik Jain, an 18-year-old from Delhi, India, has been recognized with the prestigious Diana Award for his efforts to challenge menstrual stigma and improve access to menstrual products. Jain, who leads Team Period, an initiative he started in 2024 with three close friends, was among 198 young people from 44 countries honored with the award. The Diana Award, established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, recognizes young people aged 16 to 25 for their social action and humanitarian efforts.
Jain's journey began when he witnessed a close friend struggle with debilitating menstrual pain that wasn't being taken seriously. The friend, who had been experiencing severe cramps for six to eight months, was initially met with skepticism by her parents, who thought she was trying to get out of her examinations. Jain's concern and empathy led him to start Team Period, which aims to challenge menstrual stigma through workshops, street performances, awareness campaigns, and efforts to improve access to menstrual pads and products.
Team Period, which began as a school project, has continued to grow and make a impact at the grassroots level. Jain and his team of three friends - Shivansh Arora, Aaratrika Jha Anand, and Navya Manglik - approached the issue as learners, not experts, and worked to create change in their community. Jain's experience has also sparked a passion for public health, and he plans to study medicine and public health at the University of Bologna in Italy in February.
Jain faced some resistance when he began talking about menstruation, with some people surprised that a teenage boy wanted to tackle the issue. However, his friends were supportive, and he approached the issue with sensitivity and humility. Jain never claimed to be an expert, but rather a learner, and worked to amplify the voices of young women and girls.
The Diana Award is a significant recognition of Jain's efforts, and he is one of 49 Indian recipients this year. Other Indian recipients include Shiv Mandlik, who invented a bendable pole to help construction workers avoid working at dangerous heights, and Krish Aggarwal, who created an inexpensive filter to reduce indoor air pollution. Kushal Sachdeva, who began feeding stray dogs at the age of 11, was also recognized for his work.
Jain's work with Team Period has shown that even small actions can make a big difference. By challenging menstrual stigma and improving access to menstrual products, Jain and his team are working to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for young women and girls. The Diana Award is a testament to the impact that young people can have when they work towards creating positive change.
Jain's achievement is an inspiration to young people around the world, showing that anyone can make a difference, regardless of their age or background. His work with Team Period is a reminder that menstruation is a normal and natural part of life, and that it should be treated with dignity and respect. As Jain continues his studies and work in public health, his experience and recognition will undoubtedly have a lasting impact.
Key points
- Aadvik Jain, 18, was recognized with the Diana Award for his efforts to challenge menstrual stigma and improve access to menstrual products.
- Jain leads Team Period, an initiative he started in 2024 with three close friends to challenge menstrual stigma through workshops, street performances, awareness campaigns, and efforts to improve access to menstrual pads and products.
- The Diana Award recognizes young people aged 16 to 25 for their social action and humanitarian efforts, and Jain was one of 198 young people from 44 countries honored with the award.
