The Fihri Foundation was born out of a deep desire to make a difference. It all began when our founder, Ceylan Rowe, heard a heartbreaking story as a Commissioner for the MetroWest Commission on the Status of Women: eighth graders in Massachusetts were teaching sixth graders how to use toilet paper as makeshift period pads. As a mother and advocate for women’s health, Ceylan knew she had to act.

But the inspiration for Fihri runs even deeper. Ceylan’s own life experiences shaped the foundation’s mission. As a teenager, she survived the 1999 earthquake in Turkey, a tragedy that claimed thousands of lives and left countless people without basic necessities. That moment taught her the critical importance of providing essential resources during times of crisis.

Since its inception, the Fihri Foundation has focused on addressing period poverty in underserved communities and crisis-affected areas around the world. From distributing sustainable period kits to earthquake survivors in Türkiye and Syria, to supporting women impacted by natural disasters in Bangladesh, Mexico, and the United States, Fihri has worked tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind.

To date, we’ve reached women and girls in over 17 countries by partnering with organizations, universities, and communities to deliver period kits when and where they are needed most. Our work is about more than just providing products—it’s about offering comfort, dignity, and hope to those facing unimaginable challenges.

At Fihri, we believe that no one should have to choose between managing their period and living their life. By addressing this basic need, we empower women and girls to rise above the barriers that hold them back. Together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the dignity and resources they deserve.

Join us in our mission to end period poverty, one kit at a time.