Training Changemakers,
Fueling Movements Across the U.S.
From classrooms to Capitol Hill, Girl Up USA Country Manager Kristen Clayton is helping a new generation of youth leaders reimagine what leadership looks like. As part of Girl Up’s 15-year global movement for gender justice, Kristen is ensuring that girls in every corner of the United States have the tools, confidence, and community to lead boldly.
Read Kristen’s reflections on her proudest moments, the challenges girls face in the U.S., and the future she envisions for Girl Up.
The future of Girl Up in my region is unapologetic, intersectional, and unstoppable.
Read Kristen’s reflections on her proudest moments, the challenges girls face in the U.S., and the future she envisions for Girl Up.
What is your proudest Girl Up moment?
My proudest Girl Up moment is every time a young person realizes their power — when they go from asking, “What can I do?” to declaring, “Here’s what I’m doing.” One moment that stands out is our 2024 Girl Up USA Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. It was our first fully youth-designed and youth-led summit in the U.S., and it brought together hundreds of changemakers from across the country. Seeing our Teen Advisors and club leaders take the reins — facilitating workshops, leading plenaries, and shaping the narrative — was the clearest example of what it means to center youth leadership.
I also think about the countless local clubs and state-level movements that have grown out of that same spark. From young people launching period equity campaigns in their schools to advocating for mental health resources in their communities, I’m proud every time I see Girl Up leaders take action for justice where they live. That’s the heart of our work — turning inspiration into impact.
What’s one challenge in your region the world should know about?
In the United States, one of the biggest challenges is the growing backlash against gender equity and the erosion of hard-won rights. We’re seeing increased polarization, book bans targeting stories about girls and LGBTQ+ youth, and policies that roll back reproductive and educational freedoms. These challenges send a dangerous message to young people — especially girls — that their voices don’t matter, or that progress isn’t possible.
But the young leaders I work with refuse to accept that. They’re organizing, running for student government, meeting with legislators, and demanding that equity and justice stay at the center of our democracy. They remind me daily that even in moments of regression, resistance is powerful.
The future of girl up in my region is…
The future of Girl Up in my region is unapologetic, intersectional, and unstoppable. It’s led by young people who understand that gender justice is connected to every other issue — from climate change to racial justice to access to education. It’s a future where youth are not waiting for permission to lead; they’re already doing it. My role is to make sure the systems around them catch up.
About Kristen Clayton
Country Manager, Girl Up USA
Based in Washington, D.C., Kristen leads Girl Up’s U.S. programs, supporting youth leaders across the country to advance gender justice, civic engagement, and community organizing through education and advocacy
Support Girl Up’s 15-Year Legacy of Leadership
For 15 years, Girl Up has trained and supported 345,000 youth leaders in 155 countries. Now, we’re charting the next chapter — building a future led by girls, for everyone.
