International Women’s Day, observed on March 8th, commemorates women’s achievements and contributions. To celebrate this day and Women’s History Month, we talked with Brand Ambassadors about this year’s global theme, “Give to Gain”, which highlights the importance of investing in strategies, resources, and actions that advance women’s growth and leadership as a means of supporting communities. 

Brand Ambassadors like Belen from Girls Inc. of San Diego shares her reflections on this year’s theme of “Give to Gain,” “As a first-generation student from an underserved community, I once questioned whether I belonged in rigorous academic environments. It was through Girls Inc. mentors and community programs that I gained the encouragement and resources to grow both personally and professionally. Knowing that someone else believed in me helped build my confidence and encouraged me to apply to competitive universities and internship opportunities. Workshops showed me how to share my voice and recognize my potential. Their support not only helped me but also inspired me to mentor others who are in the same position I was once in. I now strive to embody this year’s theme, “Give to Gain”, by mentoring young girls of color across New York City. The guidance I received inspired me to pay it forward by offering encouragement, sharing resources, and creating encouraging spaces for girls to dream big. Just as my past mentors have invested in me, I am now committed to investing in the new generation of smart, strong, and bold leaders.”  

Lauren, from Girls Inc. of Columbus & Phenix Russell added “This year’s theme, “Give to Gain”, means a lot to me because when you give to others, it builds self-belief and inspires them to motivate others in return. In my journey, the investment of community partners has opened countless doors for me. Whether it was them taking the time to sit with me, understand my goals, and help me create an action plan, or investing in my future to set me up for success, their support has made a lasting difference. 

One specific investment that has shaped my life is being a Girls Inc. National Scholarship recipient. This honor significantly reduced the financial burden of my undergraduate degree and made it possible for me to attend the university of my choice. The guidance and encouragement I’ve received have instilled in me the principles, mindset, and confidence to embody what it means to be strong, smart, and bold.  

Overall, Girls Inc.’s impact shows up in my everyday life through the music I create, when I speak and I strive to carry the motto “Give to Gain” everywhere I go.” “As a Girls Inc. participant, this year’s theme, “Give to Gain”, reminds me that growth is never a solo journey,” says Shreya, from Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region. “Every opportunity I’ve had, from leadership roles to speaking on behalf of girls in my community, exists because someone chose to invest their time and belief in me first. My mentors at Girls Inc. taught me more than just skills. They showed me what confidence looks like and pushed me to always share my voice. 

Through Girls Inc., I’ve gained public speaking experience, advocacy skills, and a strong sense of identity. But those gains came from the patience of staff who helped navigate all my challenges, mentors who checked in on my goals, and community partners who created spaces where girls like me could lead. Their support transformed doubt into determination. 

Because others gave to me, I am now capable of giving back to others. Whether through my nonprofit, GleeBoxx, or representing Girls Inc. as a Brand Ambassador, I try to be the encouragement someone else needs. “Give to Gain” means that when we invest in each other, we all rise stronger, smarter, and bolder.” 

Aisha, from Girls Inc. of Greater Miami says, “This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” really speaks to me as a Girls Inc. participant. Through programs, workshops, and mentorship, I’ve had the support of adults and partners who believed in me even when I doubted myself. For example, Miss Marlena at Girls Inc. helped me develop my communication and leadership skills, giving me the confidence to speak up in school and take on new challenges. Their guidance opened doors I never thought I’d have access to, from leadership opportunities to learning experiences that helped me grow both personally and academically. 

Because of the investment others have made in me, I am inspired to give back. I currently mentor younger Girls Inc. girls, encourage my peers, and help create opportunities for others to build their confidence and skills. “Give to Gain” reminds me that the support we receive is powerful, but the real impact comes when we use it to lift others. By giving what I’ve been given, I can help someone else grow, just like how I was supported.” 

Leila,  from Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis, noted. “Growing up, I’ve come to understand how important it is to be an active and supportive member of one’s community. This belief has been shaped by my friends and family, involvement in service-centered clubs, and especially by my journey with Girls Inc. This year’s theme, Give to Gain, reflects a simple truth I’ve experienced firsthand: everything you give to the world has a way of coming back around.  

Through Girls Inc. programming, such as leadership workshops, mock interviews, professional development opportunities, and community projects, I gained skills that prepared me to lead with confidence. The mentors and community partners who poured into me, providing me with encouragement and assurance that I am capable of greatness. I couldn’t be more grateful for one mentor in particular, Ms. Emily, who consistently encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone, motivating me to pursue various growth opportunities and ultimately inspiring me to become a Brand Ambassador. 

Seeing how others chose to invest in me, I now choose to invest in others. Serving with Girls Inc. allows me to positively impact girls like myself and help build a new generation of strong, smart, and bold leaders. To me, Give to Gain means taking the time to invest in others, for doing so not only strengthens the individual, but our community, for generations to come.” 

“To me, “Give to Gain” means that when we invest our time, energy, and support in others, that effort often comes back in meaningful ways.” says Maya, from Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, “As a Girls Inc. girl, I give my time and effort to each program and activity I participate in. I am able to gain support, knowledge, and opportunities that will help shape my future. The adults and mentors in my life have invested their time and energy into supporting not only my education, but also my growth as a person. At Girls Inc., they have introduced me to new subjects within STEM and also learning about healthy sexuality, giving me the tools and confidence to make informed decisions and build a bright future. Learning and gaining all these tools from Girls Inc., it has inspired me to give back. I now work at my local Girls Inc., where I help teach sports and support younger girls. I strive to be the kind of mentor and role model that others were for me. Just as they helped guide my future, I hope to positively impact the futures of the girls I work with.” 

Our Brand Ambassadors remind us that when we give girls the support, resources, and encouragement they deserve, we all gain stronger leaders, more confident voices, and a better future. Their stories are proof that investing in girls is not just an act of generosity, but a catalyst for lasting change. When girls are encouraged and supported to lead today, they shape a brighter tomorrow for us all.