My Dearest Girl Up Community,
Over the last almost 15 years, Girl Up, an initiative dedicated to achieving a more equitable and just world for girls and women. has evolved from a U.S.-focused fundraising campaign to a global youth movement for gender justice. It has been the privilege of my life to grow and lead the movement in partnership with all of you and, after an incredible 13.5 years, I am ready to step down and welcome a bold new chapter for our movement.
I have been profoundly shaped and inspired by everything I’ve learned from each of you – from the staff who have served Girl Up over the years, to the partners, donors, and board members who have supported this critical work, and most importantly, to every Girl Up leader I’ve met – and even those I haven’t – who still left a mark on my heart. We have built something truly incredible together – something not the result of any one person, but the collective power of this community. I’m endlessly proud to have stood alongside you. As I prepare to say goodbye to Girl Up later this month, I am so excited for what’s ahead – for fresh direction, a more localized (and thus more feminist!) approach, deeper partnership with youth leaders, and the continued evolution of Girl Up as a global force for change.
As I prepare to say goodbye to Girl Up later this month, I am so excited for what’s ahead – for fresh direction, a more localized (and thus more feminist!) approach, deeper partnership with youth leaders, and the continued evolution of Girl Up as a global force for change.
My transition is a strategic part of this growth and evolution and has been carefully considered, looking at what Girl Up is today and where it is headed next.
Girl Up’s most powerful contribution to a more just, peaceful, and equitable world is our unique youth-centered leadership model. As we move forward, the organization must continue evolving into a global institution that reflects the diversity of our community. That means continuing to center intergenerational power-sharing, inclusivity, and regional equity in everything we do. You will see this come to life even more in the months ahead.
I am thrilled that Julie Willig, our current COO and longtime teammate, and My Lo Cook, our Chief Program Officer and newest member of the Girl Up leadership team, will devote their considerable skills and expertise to leading Girl Up together. I have seen their complementary strengths firsthand – Julie brings operational excellence and deep historical knowledge, while My brings thoughtful programmatic leadership and vision for how we do this important work in the world. Together, they are uniquely equipped to steward this next chapter and bring our new, dynamic vision to life. I can’t wait to see how they guide our organization into its next era – and beyond – as well as continuing to support our Girl Up leaders and this broader community.
Girl Up’s vital work continues, powered by the leadership of our community. Our mission is unchanged and our vision for a more gender just world is unwavering. The programs, values, and community that make Girl Up so powerful will continue to grow and evolve with the intrepid leadership of Julie, My, and our global team. The brilliance, power, resilience and impact of the young people leading this change every day will continue. And it must. The world needs Girl Up more than ever!
The brilliance, power, resilience and impact of the young people leading this change every day will continue. And it must. The world needs Girl Up now more than ever!
I am so grateful to have been part of Girl Up’s journey and to have grown up alongside it, learning lessons and making memories at every turn. I’ve traveled the world and met incredible girls and youth who have inspired me in countless ways.
Girl Up leaders, you’ve all shown me what’s possible when young people lead – and I know you’ll keep pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and driving change. I’m hopeful for the future of our world because each of you has shown me the true potential of young people.
Please join me in standing with and beside the Girl Up team – in championing this next era and ensuring our movement continues to thrive. I’ll be cheering you on, now as your biggest supporter.
As many of our Girl Up leaders have heard me say, and I now take forward with me in my own alum status… it really is “Girl Up for Life!”
XOXO,
Melissa
