Make Me Smile - School Participation Program
Breaking Barriers to Education
At REMO, we believe that education is the foundation for empowerment and equality. Yet, for many girls in Tanzania, a lack of access to basic sanitary products continues to be a major barrier to education. When girls miss school because of their menstrual cycle, their academic performance and confidence suffer. The Make Me Smile project was created to change that — ensuring that every girl can attend school without issues.
How We're Making a Change
Phase 1 (2025): With the generous support from our Australian team member Jasmin Cockram (Founding Member & Volunteer) and her family, Make Me Smile was launched in 2025 to support girls in public secondary schools, including Manyara Secondary School in Monduli and Dr. Philip Mpango Secondary School in Msomera, Handeni Tanga. In this phase, over 100 reusable sanitary pads were distributed to students, providing them with a sustainable and hygienic solution that lasts for years. Beyond menstrual health, this phase included support for youth development. By providing sports gear such as footballs and handballs, we encourage teamwork, confidence, and a healthy, active lifestyle among students. This helps to create a more inclusive and supportive school environment.
Phase 2 (2026): This phase, conducted in early 2026, was mainly an expansion of phase 1. It included the same schools as well as new schools (e.g. Mama Samia Primary School). Again, over 100 reusable sanitary pads were distributed. Most importantly, this phase was also marked by 4 health education sessions (held in Swahili) covering menstrual hygiene management, body changes and self-care, breaking cultural taboos and the proper use and maintenance of reusable pads. Beyond this, a total of over 150 pupils received exercice books and pencils. Sports gear, including footballs, netballs and pumps, was also handed out.
Impact on the Community
The Make Me Smile initiative has already made a visible difference. Girls can now attend school regularly without the fear or stigma associated with menstruation. This leads to improved attendance and academic engagement. Sports activities have helped strengthen bonds between students and fostered a spirit of cooperation and resilience. Our analysis has shown that the project reduced monthly absenteeism by 68% and a 100% increase in school sports participation among supported girls. Together, these efforts contribute to better education outcomes and a stronger sense of community.
Together for Every Girl's Right to Learn
Our goal is to expand Make Me Smile to reach more schools across Tanzania — continuing to supply reusable sanitary pads and providing sports equipment to encourage both physical and emotional well-being. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly supports students in need and helps ensure that education is not a privilege, but a right for every child. Your support directly reaches the students, creating immediate and lasting change in their lives.
