Meet The Grace Cup, first reusable menstrual products company in Kenya
Ebby Weyime is founder of The Grace Cup, Kenya’s first reusable menstrual product company. She is also certified menstrual hygiene management trainer and strong advocate for freedom of choice. In her quest to grow and expand regionally, The Grace Cup had the opportunity to participate in the first cohort of the Next Health Accelerator.
What is the story behind your startup?
I had a problem with heavy bleeding and having to use both pads and tampons during my period. I started using a cup and loved it so much I couldn’t stop talking about it. A few months later, it became my business.
Who are your target customers, and what problem are you solving?
Target customers are urban women for retail and NGOs for bulk purchases.
Period poverty and lack on knowledge on sexual reproductive health is what I’m solving. We now have grace pads as well which are washable pads.
What are your challenges?
The cup is a hard sell. Convincing a woman to insert a cup in her vagina is not easy but they are slowly adopting it. Funds to travel and do training is also not easy to get.
What is your vision for your startup? What does success look like?
My vision is to turn it into a safe hub where women can freely talk about sexual reproductive health without feeling ashamed. Things like contraceptives, abortions, menstruation, sex etc.
Why did you apply for NHA? Why NHA and not another accelerator?
The Next Health Accelerator program (NHA) was very specific with solving Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) matters. It was the perfect union.
What were your expectations, and how was your experience with the program so far?
When I applied for the program, my main expectation was to find new ideas to develop my business. I was fulfilled beyond my expectations, the support of the team was extraordinary and I am very grateful.
Have you met someone who inspires you since participating in NHA?
During the program I met inspiring people in both online offline sessions.
What significant progress have you made in your business since joining NHA?
I have been a one woman show for quite some time, I am on my way to make a team!
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would emancipate the African female body.
Do you have any last comment or advice you would like to share with your fellow entrepreneurs?
Do good while doing well.
