A k i n y i

Supporting menstruation through community-centered research, holistic education, and advocacy for dignified menstruation across the globe.

Current Project: Peru

In November 2025, we will be conducting research in Peru! This is our first location in South America, expanding our project beyond North America and Africa! Understanding the realities of menstruation for women and girls globally will be the foundation for implementing sustainable solutions.

Painting of a mountain landscape integrated with a woman's face and hair, with a waterfall, trees, and flowers in vibrant colors.

Learn More on Instagram @for.akinyi

View fullsize Discussing period care in Maasai Mara, Kenya -- how do you manage #menstrualblood without access to pads, tampons, or reusable period products? Many Maasai women sit on holes in the ground of their homes while they bleed. Sometimes they will sit f
View fullsize Learning about the first period in Zukuma, Malawi! 🇲🇼 The Tumbuka tribe makes up 10% of the population in Malawi. Their beliefs and traditions surrounding menstruation have significant impacts in the monthly patterns of how women and girls interac
View fullsize Mamas brining their babies to talk about #periods in Malawi, Eswatini, and Kenya ❤️❤️
View fullsize A shout of dignity for menstruation in Mzimba, Malawi 🇲🇼 We asked women what their greatest needs are for managing their periods and made sure to follow through with what they wanted: pads, underwear, soap, and @couldyoucup menstrual cups 💗💗 #e
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P a s t P r o j e c t s

A woman standing outdoors in front of a makeshift metal shed, wearing a long blue and white patterned dress, a black cardigan, and a light green headscarf, with some trash and green grass along the ground.

Kenya 2022

A woman in traditional African attire stands in front of a classroom, holding a piece of chalk and gesturing, with female students sitting at wooden desks and looking attentive.

Kenya 2023

Two women smiling and holding food items, standing outdoors against a plain wall. The woman on the left wears a headscarf, a patterned scarf, and a black top, while the woman on the right wears sunglasses, a headwrap, and a patterned dress.

Eswatini 2024

Group of six women and children sitting and standing indoors, smiling, holding small plastic bags with items, with a worn, beige wall in the background.

Malawi 2024

W h y i t m a t t e r s