Project Red Van: Hey People, Let's Talk Periods! (And Yes, It's Actually Fun!)

In this blog we hear directly from Project Red Van - a revolutionary youth-led period positive initiative based in Canada.

Okay, we know what you're thinking... Periods? Fun? Are you serious? But hear us out!

We’re here to tell you that talking about periods doesn't have to be weird, embarrassing, or something we whisper about in the bathroom. In fact, it can be pretty awesome when we do it right!

Why Your Voice Matters SO Much

Here's the thing that adults sometimes forget: WE are the ones going through this stuff! We're the ones dealing with cramps during math class, wondering if we have enough pads in our backpack, or feeling confused about what's happening to our bodies. So why shouldn't WE be the ones leading the conversation?

That's exactly what Project Red Van believes, and it's why we're doing something totally revolutionary – letting us kids take charge of changing how people talk about periods with kids.

Because honestly? Adults can be pretty awkward about this stuff, but when we talk to each other, it just makes sense.

What Are ‘peer-iod talks’?

Get it? PEER-iod? I love that name! These aren't your typical health class lectures where everyone stares at their desks and tries not to giggle. peer-iod talks are all about us talking to each other – sharing real experiences, asking the questions we actually want answered, and learning about our bodies in a way that feels normal and

natural.

When we talk to our friends about periods now, it's like talking about any other part of life. We share tips about which products work best, laugh about funny period moments (yes, they exist!), and support each other when things get tough. It's amazing how much shame disappears when you realize literally half the population goes through this!

We’ve even started our own podcast on Spotify- you guessed it- ‘peer-iod talks’ and here’s the link: peer-iod talks Podcast on Spotify

Learning About Our Bodies Should Be Exciting!

Our bodies are incredible! Think about it – our bodies are literally bleeding every month, and we aren’t dying! That's like having a superpower! But for too long, we've been taught to feel embarrassed about something that's actually pretty amazing.

Through Project Red Van, we've learned so much cool stuff about periods that I never knew before. Like did you know that period blood isn't actually just blood, and it can also reveal how healthy our bodies are (modern research is discovering so much about it, and how to test it for so many things!)? Or that every persons cycle is different and that's totally normal? When you start learning the real science behind it all, periods become way less mysterious and scary.

Canadas First Youth-Led Period Symposium – We Made History!

Here's something super exciting – on May 3, 2025, Project Red Van hosted Canada's very first Period Symposium that was completely planned BY youth FOR youth right here in Vancouver!

We literally made history, people!

It was incredible seeing so many young people come together to talk openly about periods, share their stories, and learn from each other. We had workshops, discussions, and even some pretty fun activities (yes, period education can involve games- think Period Party!). The energy was amazing – everyone was so excited to finally have a space where we could talk about this stuff without any adults making it weird.

Ending Shame and Celebrating Out Loud

The best part about all of this? We're not just talking about periods anymore – we're CELEBRATING them! We're throwing period parties, creating art about menstruation, and making jokes that actually make people laugh instead of cringe.

When we stop treating periods like some dark secret, incredible things happen. People feel more confident asking for help when they need it. Friends support each other better. And maybe most importantly, nobody has to feel alone or ashamed about something that's completely natural.

Want to Join the Movement?

If you're reading this and thinking "YES! I want to be part of changing how we talk about periods!" – you totally can! Check out the video from our amazing event on YouTube at Project Red Van's Period Symposium. You'll see exactly what we're all about and get inspired to start your own peer-iod talks with your friends. 

Project Red Van is all about empowering young people like us to take control of these conversations. Because when we speak up, when we share our experiences, and when we refuse to be embarrassed about our bodies – that's when real change happens.

The Future is Period-Positive!

We’re excited about where this movement is going. Imagine a world where no young person ever has to feel ashamed about getting their period, where everyone knows the facts about menstruation, and where periods are just another normal part of life we talk about openly.

That world is possible, and it starts with us. So let's keep talking, keep learning, and keep celebrating our amazing bodies. Because periods aren't just something that happens to us – they're part of what makes us strong, resilient, and absolutely incredible.

Who's ready to join the peer-iod talks revolution? 🩸✊

Want to learn more about Project Red Van and how you can get involved? Check out our Period Symposium video and see how young people across Canada are changing the conversation, one peer-iod talk at a time!

www.ProjectRedVan.com