Matilda, Mexico
Entering college was like stepping into a new world. I didn’t know anyone and felt completely
alone. In my search for connection, I found Girl Up, and it became the spark that helped me
discover a strength within me I didn’t know I had, a space where I truly belonged.
I joined Girl Up Borregas León hoping to make friends, but I discovered something much more
meaningful. I found a community of girls and young women who weren’t just supportive, they
were powerful. We shared a vision, faced challenges, and celebrated our wins, creating a space
where each of us could shine in our own unique ways. Through our shared experiences, I saw
girlhood not just as a stage of life, but as strength, resilience, and the power we hold when we
unite.
As I grew within Girl Up, I realized the true potential of our collective energy. One of the most
significant moments in my journey was leading Juega como Niña, a sports event designed to
help girls to develop athletic skills, both on and off the playfield. From my first year as a staff
member to leading the project, this year we saw the biggest turnout ever, with more participants
and sponsors than before. I feel an incredible sense of pride knowing that we are part of
something bigger than ourselves. It wasn’t just an event, it was about showing the girls in our
community the power they hold within them.
Before Girl Up, I had a sense of what I wanted to achieve, but it was through this community that
I found the confidence to pursue it. Girl Up sparked a fire within me, a fire that had always been
there, but I didn’t know how to fuel. It didn’t just push me toward my goals, it helped me
understand my purpose is to serve my community. Whether through leading events, mentoring,
or creating spaces for growth, I know that my journey is about giving back.
The most important lesson I’ve learned as a member of this community is that together, we are unstoppable.
For me, leadership is about nurturing what came before and helping others take the next step
forward. Leadership isn’t about standing at the front, it’s about knowing when to take charge and
when to step back. It’s about listening, understanding and helping others rise. The true power of
leadership lies in community, because when we come together, we can accomplish anything.
I’m deeply grateful to the young women who funded Girl up Borregas León before I became a
student. They welcomed me with open arms and gave me space to grow. When they graduated,
they trusted me with the leadership of the club. I’m thankful to all the girls that trusted me to
lead, even when none of us knew exactly how to achieve all we set out to do. These women and
girls have shaped who I am today. Some I met briefly, while others became my close friends. I
hope to be that same guiding force for others, just as they were for me.
Looking ahead, I hope Girl Up continues to grow, reaching more girls and helping them realize
their potential. The next generation of leaders will build on what we’ve started, just as we’ve built
on what came before us. That’s the true power of Girl Up, it’s about girlhood creating a legacy
that grows stronger with each generation.
The most important lesson I’ve learned as a member of this community is that together, we are
unstoppable. We, as girls, have the power to change the world, one step at a time.
