Russian supermodel, philanthropist and campaigner, Natalia Vodianova, will lead a global initiative with special guests this week to get women talking about their health.
The event aims to break down the stigma surrounding women's health taboos
The ‘LET’S TALK!’ campaign aims to create sustainable solutions and tackle the taboos surrounding women’s health around the world.
The event will kick off tomorrow and spread over two days, at the Maxx Royal Resorts Kemer, in Antalya, Turkey. It is powered by the charitable giving platform ELBI - which Vodianova co-founded - and in partnership with UNFBA and the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency.
Speaking about the event, Natalia said: “A year ago, I began holding conversations with friends and colleagues about the taboos around periods and am so excited to broaden this conversation and bring it to a global level.
“Too often women’s health issues go unheard and unnoticed because of unwarranted stigmas and taboos which have let far too many women down for generations. Now is the time to take a stand and begin to make strides in liberating women around the world, opening new doors and providing fresh opportunities. The changes we make now can help shape the destiny of future generations.”
Let’s talk will convene thought leaders, influencers, activists and global policymakers who are challenging women’s health taboos with the goal of galvanizing further progress on women’s health and gender equality.
These health issues cover sexual, reproductive and mental health issues. The occasion will also celebrate and support the people and companies who are at the forefront of changing social norms based on rights, equality and inclusiveness.
In the style of a panel, which audience members can get involved by asking questions and sharing their views, it is a huge step in breaking down barriers surrounding the stigmas of women’s health.
Alanna Armitage is UNFPA’s Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. She said: “We are excited to partner with Natalia and ELBI on breaking the stigma and taboos that still surround women’s health. Any lasting change requires a cultural shift, and this is why engaging influencers and innovators is so important.
The “Let’s Talk!” initiative provides an excellent platform to bring together change makers from across society -- governments, private sector, civil society, celebrities -- and share and celebrate their successes in creating a world where women can exercise their right to health and well-being without discrimination, stigma or taboo.”
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