Hello! My name is Meg, and I’m the Senior Manager of Leadership here at Girl Up. One of my favorite parts of my job is managing our Global Teen Advisor program and I’m so thrilled to announce that the application for our 2026-2027 Global Teen Advisor class is NOW OPEN! Apply by August 1!
There are a few changes to the application this year:
- Girl Up leaders up to age 19 can apply (formerly 17)
- The cohort will now begin in September 2026 and run through August 2027
Don’t forget, to apply you must:
- Be comfortable with English (fluent or advanced, as the program is only offered in English)
- Have participated in Girl Up programming before. Global Teen Advisors will be selected from youth who already have familiarity and experience with Girl Up programs
For more details, check out our guide on how to apply, including Frequently Asked Questions
Now…let’s get to the meat of things! How do you know if you’re ready to apply? Here are five signs you’re ready to be a Global Teen Advisor:
1. You are already leading gender justice movements or social impact projects in your own community.
Global Teen Advisors don’t just think about change; they are already acting. Whether you’ve organized a school initiative, led conversations about equality, volunteered with a local organization, or advocated for issues you care about, your experience matters. We are looking for young leaders who are actively creating impact in their own communities and are excited to bring that same energy to a global network. You do not need to have everything figured out — just a demonstrated commitment to making a difference. Bonus points if you did this with an already existing Girl Up club or initiative!
2. You like collaborating across global borders and are interested in turning local knowledge into a global movement.
One of the most exciting parts of being a Global Teen Advisor is connecting with young leaders from around the world. The issues impacting girls can look different across countries and communities, which is why global collaboration is so important. If you are curious about other perspectives, excited to learn from peers internationally, and interested in sharing your own experiences to strengthen a larger movement, you may be a great fit. We believe local knowledge has the power to inspire global change when shared.
3. You love working in teams.
Positive change rarely happens alone. Global Teen Advisors work closely with other young leaders to brainstorm ideas, solve problems, support campaigns, and bring projects to life together. Being a strong team member means listening to others, communicating openly, and valuing collaboration even when perspectives differ. If you enjoy building ideas with others and contributing to a supportive, mission-driven group, you will likely thrive in this role.
4. You have unique skills and experiences that could contribute new ideas and perspectives to Girl Up.
There is no single “type” of Global Teen Advisor. Some advisors are strong public speakers, while others excel in design, organizing, writing, research, social media, community outreach, or creative problem-solving. Your personal and unique experiences, culture, identity, and perspective all shape the ideas you bring to the table. We are looking for diverse voices and fresh perspectives that will help strengthen Girl Up’s work and make our movement more inclusive and innovative.
5. You are ready to grow as a leader.
Being a Global Teen Advisor is not just about what you already know; it is also about your willingness to grow. This role offers opportunities to strengthen your leadership skills, collaborate with inspiring peers, and gain experience in advocacy and global organizing. You do not need to be the loudest person in the room or have years of experience to make an impact. If you are excited to challenge yourself, learn new skills, and grow into a stronger leader, this opportunity may be for you.
Now above all, the #1 most important thing is that you are excited and can take the time to apply!
Don’t forget, we receive hundreds of applications but can only hire 10-12 Girl Up leaders. If you aren’t hired this time around, we encourage you to keep getting involved across Girl Up programs and making a change in your community.
Ready? Apply by August 1!
