In this episode, host Andrea Putting talks to Tina Murray, who is passionate about improving access to toilets and sanitation in developing countries. Tina, nicknamed “Toilet Tina”, shares how her experiences in Ghana opened her eyes to the major impact that lack of access to toilets and clean water can have on education, especially for young girls.

Tina discusses how something as basic as not having a toilet at school can lead to girls dropping out, as they often miss school during their menstrual cycles when there are no private facilities available. She also shares stories of the challenges people in Ghana face, like having to travel 20 minutes just to use a toilet, or young girls having to collect water from rivers infested with crocodiles.

Despite the daunting scale of the global sanitation crisis, Tina emphasizes that even making a difference for one person can have a ripple effect that lasts for generations. She encourages listeners to find the social cause they are most passionate about and take action, no matter how small, to make a positive impact.

Key Takeaways:

• Lack of access to basic sanitation and clean water has a huge impact on education, especially for girls, in many parts of the world
• Something as simple as providing toilets at schools can significantly improve school attendance and outcomes
• Finding a social cause you’re passionate about and taking action, even in a small way, can make a big difference over time
• Be patient in discovering your purpose – the right path often emerges unexpectedly

If you would like to support Tina’s passion for toilets, please connect with me, and I will pass on her details and those of the Kidman Park Rotary Club, which is collecting funds.