She's the First

December 23, 2024

CBO Training, Activism Programs, Girl-Led Advocacy, Girls First Institute

A Year of Impact: How We Built Girls’ Power Together Across the Globe

She's the First

December 23, 2024

CBO Training, Activism Programs, Girl-Led Advocacy, Girls First Institute

Looking back at 2024: How we empowered girls together

As we approach a new year, we’re looking back at all we accomplished in 2024 with the support of our community.

Our 2024 in a snapshot: building girls’ power in Nairobi, convening practitioners in Uganda, amplifying voices in Liberia, launching the Girls First Institute, and witnessing girls speak truth to power at the UN.

From local communities to global stages, these moments remind us of the unstoppable force of girls and their mentors—and the power we have when we work together as a movement to ensure girls have more agency in their lives.

Below, we shared photos, videos, and stories from our team’s favorite moments in 2024. What was your favorite highlight in 2024? Tell us on Instagram or LinkedIn!

Thank you for being a part of our community this year!

Girls First Summit Kenya

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Kate Kiama speaks during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Kate Kiama speaks during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Girl Hour during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Girl Hour during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girl Hour panelists pose during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girl Hour panelists pose during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Ceci Arriaza works with leaders from community-based organizations during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Ceci Arriaza works with leaders from community-based organizations during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Kate Kiama speaks during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Girl Hour during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girl Hour panelists pose during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Ceci Arriaza works with leaders from community-based organizations during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

The Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

“I’m most proud of our 8th Girls First Summit in Nairobi, Kenya—I got to witness the programs team’s work firsthand. The evaluation data from the trainings show that the participants made changes in their communities to listen to girls, build their power, and protect them.

The highlight of my year was announcing that Kate Kiama will become my co-CEO on Jan 1st!”

—Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder and CEO

Girls First Summit Uganda

Participants interacting at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants interacting at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

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Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would You Do?” is a play-based toolkit by She’s the First for mentors that includes a card game designed for girls in three age groups. Through play and conversation with peers and a mentor, girls learn about healthy relationships and how to create safe personal boundaries.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

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Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would You Do?” is a play-based toolkit by She’s the First for mentors that includes a card game designed for girls in three age groups. Through play and conversation with peers and a mentor, girls learn about healthy relationships and how to create safe personal boundaries. (Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would Y

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would You Do?” is a play-based toolkit by She’s the First for mentors that includes a card game designed for girls in three age groups. Through play and conversation with peers and a mentor, girls learn about healthy relationships and how to create safe personal boundaries.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would Y

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would You Do?” is a play-based toolkit by She’s the First for mentors that includes a card game designed for girls in three age groups. Through play and conversation with peers and a mentor, girls learn about healthy relationships and how to create safe personal boundaries.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

2024_GFS_Uganda_06.JPG

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would You Do?” is a play-based toolkit by She’s the First for mentors that includes a card game designed for girls in three age groups. Through play and conversation with peers and a mentor, girls learn about healthy relationships and how to create safe personal boundaries.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) moderates the Girl Hour expert panel at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.Girl experts discuss questions submitted by participants prior to the sum

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) moderates the Girl Hour expert panel at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.Girl experts discuss questions submitted by participants prior to the summit. This session focuses on amplifying girls' voices to strengthen programming. Girl experts share their insights, suggest solutions, and address issues that impact their peers in their communities.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)(Instagram credit: @zaharaabdulfoto + @candidlocal)

Girl Hour expert panel moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First), in Kampala Uganda, July 2024 where experts address questions submitted by participants before the summit. The session centers girls' voices, strengthens pro

Girl Hour expert panel moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First), in Kampala Uganda, July 2024 where experts address questions submitted by participants before the summit. The session centers girls' voices, strengthens programming, and allows girls to share their insights, suggest solutions, and discuss issues affecting their peers.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)(Instagram credit: @zaharaabdulfoto + @candidlocal)

Girl Hour panel at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Girl Hour panel at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) conducting a session on centering girls' voices in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) programming at the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The trai

Kate Kiama, (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) conducting a session on centering girls' voices in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) programming at the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The training focused on helping organizations integrate girls' voices into effective SRHR programming. Topics included methodologies like focus groups, talking boxes, and peer-to-peer mentoring throughout the program cycle, and introduced the 'What Would You Do' toolkit to assist mentors in navigating sensitive topics.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator) engages with participant at the first Girl’s First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala Uganda July 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator) engages with participant at the first Girl’s First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala Uganda July 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organ

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organizations.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First engages with a participant during Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First engages with a participant during Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organ

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organizations.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024, engage in an icebreaker exercise to get to know each other before the training begins.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024, engage in an icebreaker exercise to get to know each other before the training begins.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Facilitators Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator), Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager), and Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact) addressing attendees at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Phot

Facilitators Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator), Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager), and Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact) addressing attendees at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants of the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.40 women-led grassroot organizations were represented during the training(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants of the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.40 women-led grassroot organizations were represented during the training(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Ceci Arriaza, (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First) facilitating a session on how to build stronger mentorship programs to build girls’ agency during the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The session explored feminist m

Ceci Arriaza, (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First) facilitating a session on how to build stronger mentorship programs to build girls’ agency during the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The session explored feminist mentorship, emphasizing mentors' role in empowering girls to build agency and highlighting the principles outlined in the feminist mentorship manual.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

(Left - Right) Lynda Nakaibale, Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First), Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) and Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) at the Girls First Summit in Kampa

(Left - Right) Lynda Nakaibale, Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First), Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) and Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) at the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Participants interacting at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would Y

Practitioners participate in a trial run of the “What Would You Do?” card game moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) during the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.‘'What Would Y

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) moderates the Girl Hour expert panel at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.Girl experts discuss questions submitted by participants prior to the sum

Girl Hour expert panel moderated by Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First), in Kampala Uganda, July 2024 where experts address questions submitted by participants before the summit. The session centers girls' voices, strengthens pro

Girl Hour panel at Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda July, 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) conducting a session on centering girls' voices in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) programming at the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The trai

Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator) engages with participant at the first Girl’s First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala Uganda July 11th 2024(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organ

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First engages with a participant during Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact, delivers welcoming remarks and introduces the work of She’s the First to participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024. The event saw representation from 40 women-led grassroot organ

Participants at the Girls First Summit in Uganda on July 11th, 2024, engage in an icebreaker exercise to get to know each other before the training begins.(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Facilitators Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator), Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager), and Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact) addressing attendees at the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.(Phot

Participants of the Girls First Summit by She’s the First in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.40 women-led grassroot organizations were represented during the training(Photo by Zahara Abdul/Candid Local)

Ceci Arriaza, (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First) facilitating a session on how to build stronger mentorship programs to build girls’ agency during the Girls First Summit in Kampala, Uganda on July 11th, 2024.The session explored feminist m

(Left - Right) Lynda Nakaibale, Ceci Arriaza (Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First), Kate Kiama (Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First) and Florence Sidi (Programs Coordinator at She’s the First) at the Girls First Summit in Kampa

“Bringing the Girls First Summit to Uganda! We convened 76 practitioners from 42 organizations from all across Uganda. Florence trained the participants to use our “What Would You Do?” card game. Now we have heard amazing stories about how they’re using the game to teach girls about healthy relationships and boundaries!”

—Ceci Arriaza, Incoming Director of Programs

Ellas al Frente

“The highlight of my year was holding Ellas al Frente in person in Guatemala for the second consecutive year! In addition to the training with our cohort, we hosted an open day with leaders from 19 organizations, who brought along 40 girls.

What I am most proud of this year has also been starting the first Girls Advisory Council in Spanish with girls from different Latin American countries.”

—Dania de Léon, Programs Regional Coordinator for Latin America

Activism Programs for Girls

Shila, Mbulwa, and Boke at the Girls First Summit — Three Girl Activist Fellows—Shila, Mbulwa, and Boke—at the 2024 Girls First Summit (photo by Sarah Waiswa).

“This year, I utilized my background in technology to dramatically streamline and automate what were previously hours of administrative tasks, allowing me and my team to spend more time on the most important work: one one-on-one mentorship of girls!”

—Janae Phillips, Advocacy Programs Manager

What Girls Want Campaign

“I’m so proud of the girls in our programs who participated in the What Girls Want Campaign! During the United Nations General Assembly, girls rallied near the UN to demand a voice in future planning. The campaign was a collective effort by an informal coalition of more than 20 girl-centered organizations, institutions, funders, and allies fighting for change around the world.”

—Kate Lord, Director of Advocacy & Communications

Project for Awesome

“Project for Awesome 2024 demonstrated how the She’s the First community shows up for girls everywhere. It’s always so rewarding and heartwarming to watch Chapter members, fellows, council members, donors, and long-time supporters come together to make a direct impact in funding girls’ futures. (We won a $37,000 grant together!)”

—Dani Antonio, Community Engagement Assistant

Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation

From the left, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered I

From the left, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

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Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow and Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Kate Kiama, Director of P

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left,Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First,Ceci Arriaza, Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh C

From the left,Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First,Ceci Arriaza, Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Florence Sidi, Programs Coordinator at She’s the First and Kate Kiama, Director of Programs and Impact at She’s the First during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow and Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered In

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow and Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) and Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) and Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left, Moraa Beryl, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Ausmiita Sarkar, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Peace Tizaru, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator F

From the left, Moraa Beryl, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Ausmiita Sarkar, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Peace Tizaru, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Joan Kembabazi, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow and Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered I

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, and Kate Kiama, Director of P

From the left,Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First,Ceci Arriaza, Senior Programs Manager at She’s the First, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh C

From the left, Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow and Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered In

Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) and Vandana Kumari Pandey, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Tammy Tibbetts, Co-Founder & CEO at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

Cynthia Muhonja, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow (left) and Mary Murigi, Board Treasurer at She’s the First (right) during the Girl-Centered Incubator Graduation in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 5, 2024. (Photo by Sarah Waiswa)

From the left, Moraa Beryl, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Ausmiita Sarkar, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Peace Tizaru, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Aminata Seilloh Conteh, Girl-Centered Incubator Fellow, Isha Godara, Girl-Centered Incubator F

“The highlight of my year was the graduation of the first cohort of the Girl-Centered Incubator! The six fellows are phenomenal young women leaders who run impactful girl-focused organizations in their communities. Collectively, they reached 2,162 girls from five countries. Reading their stories about their three-year fellowship journey validates the She’s the First vision and mission.”

—Emma Mogaka, Training Manager

Race for Equality in Kathmandu on International Women’s Day

Srijana Sing Thakuri touches the finishing line of a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate

Srijana Sing Thakuri touches the finishing line of a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Sirana Singh Thakuri talks on the phone with her colleague before the start of the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated a 5KM race to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for g

Sirana Singh Thakuri talks on the phone with her colleague before the start of the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated a 5KM race to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.Sirjana is a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and is a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Participants from The Small World, before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by S

Participants from The Small World, before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Sanam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, helps marathon participants adjust their race numbers at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and u

Sanam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, helps marathon participants adjust their race numbers at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Participants warm up before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh,

Participants warm up before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Participants run during a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner Blin

Participants run during a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Srijana Sing Thakuri running a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated the 5KM race organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength,

Srijana Sing Thakuri running a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated the 5KM race organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Cheerleaders from The Small World (Pema Choedren on right) during the 5k race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana

Cheerleaders from The Small World (Pema Choedren on right) during the 5k race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Muna Rasili, 21, a student from The Small World, crosses the finish line at the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender eq

Muna Rasili, 21, a student from The Small World, crosses the finish line at the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. Muna came in second for the women.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Sonam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, welcomes Muna Rasili after she finishes her race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity

Sonam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, welcomes Muna Rasili after she finishes her race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Sirjana dances with the girls from The Small World after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race wa

Sirjana dances with the girls from The Small World after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)Participants enjoy dancing after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Girls from The Small World dance after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sir

Girls from The Small World dance after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Sirjana dances. Participants enjoy dancing after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organi

Sirjana dances. Participants enjoy dancing after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Ashta Sharma of Shequal, Sanam Sherpa of The Small World, and Melisha Ghimire from Shequal Foundation at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and un

Ashta Sharma of Shequal, Sanam Sherpa of The Small World, and Melisha Ghimire from Shequal Foundation at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Muna Rasaili from The Small World receives her medal in the award ceremony of the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. She came in second place for the women.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a gradu

Muna Rasaili from The Small World receives her medal in the award ceremony of the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. She came in second place for the women.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

From right: Muna Rasaili, Padam Kumari Sunuwar, Ramesh Limbu, and Nakul Garti after getting their winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM Race is organized to celebrate women's str

From right: Muna Rasaili, Padam Kumari Sunuwar, Ramesh Limbu, and Nakul Garti after getting their winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM Race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for Gender Equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Participants from The Small World, Shequal Foundation, and Srijana Sing Thakuri at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equali

Participants from The Small World, Shequal Foundation, and Srijana Sing Thakuri at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Participants from The Small World celebrating Muna Rasili’s award at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was

Participants from The Small World celebrating Muna Rasili’s award at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The r

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner BlinkNow and a former STF Youth Ambassador.(Photo by Uma Bista for She’s the First)

Srijana Sing Thakuri touches the finishing line of a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate

Sirana Singh Thakuri talks on the phone with her colleague before the start of the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated a 5KM race to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for g

Participants from The Small World, before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by S

Sanam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, helps marathon participants adjust their race numbers at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and u

Participants warm up before the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh,

Participants run during a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a graduate of former STF partner Blin

Srijana Sing Thakuri running a 5km race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. Srijana coordinated the 5KM race organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength,

Cheerleaders from The Small World (Pema Choedren on right) during the 5k race in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was organized by Sirjana

Muna Rasili, 21, a student from The Small World, crosses the finish line at the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender eq

Sonam Sherpa, the co-founder of The Small World, welcomes Muna Rasili after she finishes her race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity

Sirjana dances with the girls from The Small World after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race wa

Girls from The Small World dance after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organized by Sir

Sirjana dances. Participants enjoy dancing after the race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The race was organi

Ashta Sharma of Shequal, Sanam Sherpa of The Small World, and Melisha Ghimire from Shequal Foundation at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and un

Muna Rasaili from The Small World receives her medal in the award ceremony of the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. She came in second place for the women.The race was organized by Sirjana Singh, a gradu

From right: Muna Rasaili, Padam Kumari Sunuwar, Ramesh Limbu, and Nakul Garti after getting their winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM Race is organized to celebrate women's str

Participants from The Small World, Shequal Foundation, and Srijana Sing Thakuri at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equali

Participants from The Small World celebrating Muna Rasili’s award at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The race was

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality. The r

Muna Rasaili from The Small World with her winning medal in the 5K race at Kathmandu College of Management in Lalitpur, Nepal on March 8, 2024. The 5KM race is organized to celebrate women's strength, resilience, and unity for gender equality.The

“Helping Sirjana tell her story for International Women’s Day was the highlight of my year. Sirjana organized a 5K in Kathmandu, Nepal. To see her run in the big city when she had been judged when she was a girl for her athleticism in her hometown was such a powerful moment, especially as she encouraged other women and girls to defy expectations with her.”

—Kayla Pate, Development Manager

Adolescent Girls Summit

A group of women hold books — Florence, far right, stands with mentors that she trained at the Adolescent Girls Summit. They are holding She’s the First resources, including the “Discover Your Power Journal,” “The Global Girls’ Bill of Rights Toolkit,” and the “What Would You Do?” card game.

“Representing She’s the First at the Adolescent Girls Summit in Liberia earlier this year was an incredible experience! I trained both girls and mentors on the “What Would You Do?” card game, an important tool for fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills in navigating real-life challenges.”

—Florence Sidi, Programs Coordinator

Girls First Institute

“In July, She’s the First officially launched the Girls First Institute! This program offers essential and advanced certifications, helping community-based organizations achieve stronger outcomes for girls. Focused on women leaders in the Global South, our girl-centered design certification strengthens our mission to build girls’ power in their communities!”

—Kate Kiama, incoming Co-CEO

Want to be a part of the movement in 2025?

Check out our Get Involved page for ways to contribute your time, funding, or dedication via joining one of our programs!