I never expected that a calendar I designed would launch my Girl Up journey. What began as hand-drawn illustrations celebrating women quickly evolved into a way to turn my art into action for gender equality. When I decided to donate the proceeds to Girl Up, I was drawn to an organization that actively invests in young women as leaders, equipping us with skills and opportunities to dismantle the barriers placed before us.
I experienced that mission firsthand at my first online summit. Even through a screen, I felt the power of connection with girls from across the globe who understood my passion for gender equality, because they were there for the same reason. That moment wasn’t just a meeting, it was a movement, and I was part of it.
Through Girl Up, I discovered not only who I am, but what I’m capable of achieving.
This sense of belonging deepened when I joined the Global Teen Advisory Board. Suddenly, I was engaging with women’s issues globally, hearing perspectives from countries like Bangladesh, Australia, and Brazil. Each conversation revealed that gender equality is deeply rooted in the unique realities of each culture. This experience shifted my lens from local to global and taught me that authentic leadership begins with listening. When I later became Co-Chair of the Board, it felt like completing a meaningful circle, from mentee to mentor, supporting others as they stepped into their own power. This taught me leadership’s most profound truth: it’s not about commanding the spotlight or having all the answers, but about asking the right questions, listening deeply, and thoughtfully creating space for others to lead.
Through Girl Up, I discovered not only who I am, but what I’m capable of achieving. I learned to understand leadership in layers: leading myself with intention, leading my peers with empathy, and leading change with persistence. This mindset gave me the courage to create AskEve, an AI-powered tool designed to break the stigma surrounding menstruation. My vision is to make menstrual justice a global conversation where shame and silence have no place. Girl Up provided more than support—they gave me community.
Ultimately, Girl Up taught me that my voice matters not because it’s mine alone, but because it’s part of something bigger: a movement that grows with every girl who steps forward to lead. I’m honored to be part of a generation that refuses to accept the status quo, and I’m committed to ensuring this work continues with passion and purpose.
