She saw a woman without money for tampons — and created a business that has already earned R$ 700,000
Three entrepreneurs in Brazil created a company to tackle menstrual poverty, inspired by witnessing a woman unable to afford tampons.
In Brazil, the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products remains a significant issue affecting millions of women and girls. This pressing problem inspired three entrepreneurs to launch a business focused on innovation, sustainability, and social impact. Hellen Nzinga, one of the co-founders, recounts a poignant experience in a supermarket where she saw a woman counting coins to buy tampons, which ultimately led her to confront the challenges of menstrual poverty.
Motivated to make a change, Hellen, who was participating in a leadership development program at the time, channeled her efforts towards addressing menstrual poverty—defined as the lack of access to adequate products and basic conditions during menstruation. Alongside her co-founders, Adriele Menezes and Patrícia Zanella, they established a company with the goal of addressing this issue and improving the lives of those affected by it.
The business has since made significant strides, generating R$ 700,000 in revenue and demonstrating that the intersection of entrepreneurship and social responsibility can be a powerful force for good. Their initiative not only provides essential products but also raises awareness about the broader implications of menstrual poverty on women's health and social equity in Brazil.