East Lothian, Scotland – June 15, 2024 – We are thrilled to announce that Celia Hodson, the visionary founder of Hey Girls CIC and the PickupMyPeriod App, has been awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her outstanding contributions to promoting period dignity and raising awareness of free period products in Scotland. This prestigious honour was announced in the King’s Birthday Honours List of June 2024, recognising Celia’s tireless dedication to social enterprise and charitable initiatives.
Under Celia’s leadership, Hey Girls CIC has become a leading force in the fight against period poverty and the promotion of menstrual health education. Our innovative “buy one, donate one” model has ensured that for every product sold, another is donated to someone in need, positively impacting countless lives across the UK.
Celia’s groundbreaking My Period App has also revolutionised access to free period products by helping users locate nearby sources of these essential items, thus removing barriers for those who struggle to afford them.
Celia has received numerous accolades for her relentless commitment to social justice and community well-being, including being named the National Great British Entrepreneur of the Year. Her work has not only addressed an often-overlooked issue but has also inspired broader conversations about period dignity and gender equality in the workplace.
Upon receiving news of her OBE, Celia expressed her heartfelt gratitude:
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition. This award is a testament to the incredible support and collaboration from my team at Hey Girls, our Community Partners and our customers, and the users and advocates of the My Period app. Together, we are making strides toward a world where period poverty is a thing of the past, and menstrual health is a fundamental right for all.”
We at Hey Girls are incredibly proud of Celia’s achievements and this well-deserved recognition. Her unwavering dedication and innovative approach continue to pave the way for future generations, ensuring that period products are accessible to everyone and sparking vital conversations about menstrual equity.
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