Brown Don't Frown Podcast

Season 6: Ep 45 - Neelam Heera Shergill on advocating for better reproductive health outcomes in marginalised communities

Listen on

Episode notes

Neelam founded Cysters in 2015 as a way to challenge some of the misconceptions and stigma around reproductive health, particularly for marginalised and racialised groups. It started off as a Facebook group and has evolved to become a community-led charity which aims to address some of the systemic barriers to better health outcomes.

In this episode, Neelam's fierce dedication to improving reproductive health outcomes alongside her own lived experience come through poignantly as she shares the journey of Cysters, including its challenges and successes, as well as the significance of its core values of community, collaboration, care, and confidence. We also explore taboos in our communities, notably among South Asian women, discussing progress made and hopes for the next generation.

I ask Neelam about Cysters' mobilisation initiatives and outreach campaigns to raise awareness and empower harder to reach communities to speak openly about their health and have a seat at the decision-making table, such as "Chai and Chat" and "Cysters Smear," including its work to influence public health policy.

To join the Cysterhood, visit @cystersgroup on Instagram or www.cysters.org.