Julie Drakai and her project with Days for Girls
The power of a personal story can illuminate realities that remain invisible to many. This is the case of Julie Drakai, a young woman from Africa who has turned her life experience into a driving force for social, educational, and emotional change for thousands of girls in her community. Her voice has resonated both on international stages and in local projects, combining resilience, leadership, and commitment.
During her speech at the Youth Vision Assembly 2025, Drakai shared a deeply inspiring testimony with delegates and youth leaders:
“I was once a refugee, displaced by conflict, with no certainty about the future. But even in my darkest moments, I believed that adversity does not define us; what defines us is our response to it.”
Today, she works with the United Nations as a peacebuilder to restore stability, volunteers with Days for Girls International, and has led projects that demonstrate that dignity should not be a privilege. In her words, she has seen how economic and social opportunities can transform entire communities.
In an interview with INEEW, Drakai explained more about her work with Days for Girls. There, she works with schoolgirls in South Sudan, teaching them about feminine health and distributing menstrual hygiene products:
“Many girls miss classes because of their menstrual cycles. They can lose up to five days each month. Days for Girls International donates reusable pads, and I took the initiative to teach the girls how to use them, along with health education. With my team, we’ve distributed them to more than seven schools, and both the girls and the schools have been very grateful.”
This initiative not only provides a practical and sustainable solution to a problem that causes many girls to miss up to five days of school each month but also breaks emotional and social barriers:
“The girls who receive these products regain confidence, can actively participate in school activities, and no longer view their menstruation as a source of shame or emotional pain.”
Drakai also recounted the emotional discomfort many girls face:
“One day, during a meeting, I noticed a girl was on her period. She looked very uncomfortable, unable to move from her seat for fear of staining herself. That emotional distress is real. But when we provide education and these materials, they appreciate it greatly. The girls gain confidence and can participate in classes, activities, and games. Without this support, many end up in tears.”
The conversation also highlighted emotional intelligence, a topic Drakai considers essential:
“I think it’s very important because when we introduce girls to emotional intelligence, they communicate better and gain a lot of confidence. I believe it is essential that they engage with it.”
Her story is, at its core, a celebration of survival and perseverance, but also a reminder that true transformation occurs when individual resilience is combined with collective commitment.
Julie Drakai has not only rebuilt her own life — she is helping thousands of girls build theirs with dignity, confidence, and hope.
Julie Drakai