Ensuring Young Girls Develop Into Women Who Change the World

As the mother of three daughters and a woman working in an industry that is dominated by men in the C-Suite, this year’s theme for International Day of the Girl hits home for me. “With Her: A Skilled GirlForce” calls on the global community to rethink how to prepare young women to successfully join the world of work.

In today’s economy, technology continues to break down barriers in business, borders and industries. However, we have yet to break the gender and geography lottery which continues to determine a child's outcome.

When you consider the serious issues facing many girls around the world, the challenge is daunting. Extreme poverty, inconsistent access to healthcare, limited or no education, violence, stereotypes and cultural norms prohibiting women from being full participants in society alter the paths of many girls—often with dire economic consequences. 

But just because it’s not easy to address these complex issues doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do what’s right and tackle them head-on. In order to do this we need the whole population to think differently. We must ensure that girls have equal access to healthcare, education and opportunity. I am certainly committed to do my part and help young girls figure out how to disrupt their status quo and challenge social norms.

If given the right opportunities and support, more young girls will develop into women who lead families, companies and countries. They will develop into women who can—and will—change the world.