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Climate Change
Overview
As we work towards achieving gender equality, let’s recognise the power of economic empowerment for women. When women are given the tools and resources to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential, we can eradicate period poverty and create a better world for all. Together, we can empower women to overcome the limitations society has placed upon them and achieve great things. Let’s work towards a future where every woman has the opportunity to be financially independent and fulfill her dreams.
Young Women Menstrual Health Entrepreneurs
Irise Institute East Africa (IIEA), with support from the Kulczyk Foundation through Irise International, empowers secondary school girls with entrepreneurship and business skills so they can meet their needs, support others, and stay at school to realise their full potential.
Rise Up Entrepreneurs
Rise Up Entrepreneurs is an initiative that focuses on creating opportunities for under-served entrepreneurs. They offer various programs and resources to support individuals from diverse backgrounds in achieving their business goals. Rise Up Entrepreneurs also works to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and investors, helping entrepreneurs secure funding for their businesses.
The Pad Project
IIEA is empowering small-scale female entrepreneurs, including Direct Hand Foundation and Twekonyere Foundation, to increase access to affordable and sustainable menstrual health products in Uganda. In 2025, two women-led enterprises were supported to scale up production of reusable sanitary pads in Hoima and Wakiso Districts, improving product access for girls and women in their communities. Capacity building on standards and certification: Partners were supported to meet quality and compliance requirements, resulting in Twekonyere Foundation being certified as a recognised brand. Business development support: IIEA trained Direct Hand Foundation and Twekonyere Foundation in packaging, branding, and marketing of reusable sanitary pads, strengthening their visibility, competitiveness, and overall business growth.