Beyond the Books: An Experience of a Placement Student in the Menstrual Justice Movement

Libby Andrew is a Sociology student at Sheffield Hallam University and has volunteered with Irise International in Sheffield for over a year. As part of her university placement, Libby joined the Irise team in our office, spending three months supporting work across programmes, fundraising, and youth power. In this blog, she reflects on her experience, what she learned, and the power of youth-led menstruabeyond-the-books-an-experience-of-a-placement-student-in-the-menstrual-justice-movementl activism in action.

There is no description that accurately portrays my experience with Irise International. In an attempt, my experience was defined by the supportive and genuine network of individuals, who have extended into familiar faces to which I look to dearly, not only as menstrual justice activists but as people. This warmth was extended into the endless opportunities that I was offered, my presence was welcomed and encouraged loudly. My experience truly embodies Irise’s position in recognising young people as a powerful force. 

To begin, let's cover my experience with the menstrual justice movement. I have always advocated for human rights, covering a plethora of global and local movements. However, I never felt embedded or deeply connected to a cause on a personal level. When I came across casual menstrual justice activism on social media: it immediately felt comfortable and natural. Although I embodied micro-activism most; I deemed it as important to stay informed and spread awareness, ultimately leading me to Irise. I have volunteered for Irise since April 2025, which I mostly conducted at home and with minimal contact to the wider team. This approach was fueled by my lack of self-confidence in my skills and the experience that I had; I was blinded by self-deprecation, prohibiting my ability to recognise the possibilities that this position had in store for me. Gaining the opportunity of a placement was endorsed by the CEO (Chrissy) at an Empower Period Committee meeting, two influential and prestigious figures at Irise, sitting in a room full of active individuals in the movement reminded me of my lack of participation and reputation: something that I now look back on with a heavy heart, as I would now maximise my interaction and network. Being offered this opportunity shifted my outlook, it was the stepping stone to the confidence and experiences that I have today. 

Immediately, I was established as a core team member. I handled responsibilities that covered every corner of Irise: research, fundraising, awareness, operations, programmes, policy, campaign, administration. The chaos of the every day operations of the charity immersed me in the best way possible. There was no room for self-doubt, it encouraged skills that I was not aware that I possessed: resourceful, adaptability, reliability etc. Becoming aware of the features that characterise an organisation in the third sector, it was clear that these features demanded this skillset. Being a part of a small team with high demands, often meant I had to utilise the limited resources around me to adapt to a fast paced and changing environment. This environment highlighted the hard work and dedication that often goes unrecognised, I held a significantly heightened sense of respect for those around me and that truly carry the organisation. The menstrual movement and charity sector is demanding and emotionally heavy, I was lucky enough to have such inspiring mentors that gave me motivation and advice consistently. 

My outlook of menstrual justice has changed, following my placement. I never placed enough emphasis on intersectionality and its impact. At university, my research and assignments often centred around intersectionality and how it shapes individuals' experiences but in regards to menstruation, I truly underestimated it. Gender identity and expression constructs such a unique experience, and I am proud to be rooted in a movement that asserts inclusivity on the highest pedestal. I was truly immersed into the foundations of the movement, my involvement in a range of projects covered characteristics that all inextricably link which reveal distinct systemic inequalities. Hosting workshops and interacting with communities showcased the importance of the work that Irise produces, it is an incredibly rewarding and insightful experience. I had the privilege of conversing with an individual, where we discussed the barriers that marginalised individuals face in healthcare for menstrual health and how it specifically lacks inclusivity. 

Having such exposing conversations highlighted the lived experiences that are connected to the theoretical knowledge taught at university. University prepares you with basic background knowledge but the experiences and opportunities I have accomplished at Irise have equipped me profoundly, academically and professionally. I move forward with an increased social, ethical and global awareness and can apply myself confidently into roles that once felt too ambitious. I write this as a new Empower Period Committee member, where I once felt too inadequate to be in the same room. I will always reflect on this experience with immense gratitude and inspiration: it will always be the roots of my activism. 

I thank everyone involved in this experience intensely, you helped craft the individual I am today.