Lorna Macleod is the Founder and Executive Director of Huru International, an international nonprofit based in New York and Nairobi, Kenya, whose vision is a world where no girl is limited by her period. Huru produces and distributes high-quality, reusable menstrual pads to girls and women in Africa who need them. In conjunction with menstrual health products, Huru provides sexual and reproductive health sessions to girls and their communities to ensure girls grow up in supportive, informed environments. In addition to her work with Huru, Lorna is also the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Huru’s sister organization, AmericaShare, which provides quality education to disadvantaged youth in Kenya. Lorna received her Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Advertising from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and a Master of Social Work from New York University.

What are some of your favorite self-care practices?

I box 2-3 times a week, and every morning around 6AM I take my dog, Buns, on a long walk with my mom who lives nearby. We love walking through the woods and seeing the seasons change, and  it’s also a great way to prepare for the day. I view my mornings as an opportunity for personal growth. I also really enjoy reading books that stimulate my mind as part of my meditation routine. If you don’t meditate, I highly recommend it. 

What is your favorite healthy food and/or recipe?

Indonesian Halibut is one of my favorite go-to recipes. It is so delicious. The recipe is by Ina Garten. She uses swordfish, though I’m sure any fish would be great in it. I typically serve it with jasmine rice and an arugula salad. Yum!

Who has taught you the most in life so far?

Mostly my parents and dearest friends, but also my personal heroes that I have studied throughout the years, Thomas Edison, Shakespeare, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Amazing teachers! I learn a lot from the books that I study in the morning as well – a favorite of mine is Ernest Holmes’ The Art of Life.

What are your healthy living goals?

My top healthy living goal is to be better with finding a suitable work-life balance. I think when working in the nonprofit industry, it’s easy to get carried away with work. I’d like to be more intentional with my away-from-the-office time, so I can make sure I’m taking care of my all-around health and having fun. 

What drives you to do the work that you do?

Hearing stories from the girls that we serve is a great reminder of the importance of this work. When you see someone’s life improve because of something you were a part of, it inspires  and propels you to continue. It’s like a driving force from within that can’t be stopped. Having a positive impact in this world means everything to me. Watching joy in action is amazing. Our work doesn’t just change the life of the girl. It changes the future of the girl’s family and her entire community.