The 6-6-12 journey: belonging, skills, and leadership in action
The program begins with identity and belonging work to establish a foundation of confidence, voice, and healing-centered support.
Stage 1: Building Her Foundation
Purpose: Create safety and belonging by strengthening identity and wellbeing as the foundation for leadership.
Experience: Weekly circles (60–90 minutes) covering identity (“Who am I?”), values, boundaries, consent, emotional literacy, basic healing practices, and Girls Lead Change values.
Tracking: Simple self-checks at entry and exit (three to five questions on confidence and wellbeing) and facilitator notes (engagement and safeguarding flags).
Recognition: “I Am” ceremony where each girl shares an “I am…” statement and receives a Stage 1 badge or certificate and pledge invitation to the next stage.
Stage 2: Equipping Her for Leadership
Purpose: Build core skills and allow girls to explore leadership focus areas through tracks.
Core skills: communication, collaboration, problem-solving, planning, time management.
Track exploration: girls explore track areas through mini-presentations and group challenges (for example, Entrepreneurship, Political Leadership, Technology; plus Community).
Measuring progress: skill rubric (for example, speaking up, teamwork) with self and facilitator ratings mid-point and end; short reflections; attendance tracked with context.
Showcasing: mid-point “Micro-Showcase” where tracks demonstrate learning (pitches, debates). Girls earn track certificates and are selected for leadership roles for Stage 3.
Stage 3: Putting Leadership into Action
Purpose: Translate identity and skills into Sustainable Development Goals-aligned impact through girl-led projects.
Sustainable Development Goals action cycle: teams choose a community issue linked to a Sustainable Development Goal and build a simple project charter (problem, actions, roles, timeline).
Check-ins: regular project check-ins and reflection circles.
Reflection: mid-point review; end-of-cycle reflection on Me (growth), My Team (collaboration), My Community (what changed). Mentors and mentees provide brief feedback.
Recognition: Annual Impact Showcase with values-based awards (for example, Courage, Community, Innovation) and an 18-month completion certificate, plus invitation into the Alumnae and Big Sister track.
Global Trek (Optional Capstone)
Purpose: deepen global identity, build cross-country relationships, and create official Girls Lead Change ambassadors.
Timing: 7–14 days, occurring after or late in Stage 3 (standard blueprint).
Selection: merit-based; nominations and girl reflection reviewed by country and regional panels.
Criteria: leadership, values, Sustainable Development Goals contribution, personal growth, diversity.
Access: mix of scholarship, co-funded, and self-funded seats with regional allocations.
Give Back: each trekker must run at least one sharing or give-back activity upon return.
Recognition: “Girls Lead Change Global Trek Ambassador” title and certificate and visible symbol.
Alumnae Path
The journey evolves after completion: alumnae become the next generation of mentors (“Big Sisters”), provide proof of impact, receive speaking opportunities, and form a lifelong network of support and leadership.
