Meet Gifty, an alumna from Girls Inc. of Worcester. She always knew she wanted to make a difference and today, she’s not only building a successful career in engineering, but also reshaping what wellness looks like for her community. She credits much of her journey to the impact Girls Inc. had on her life. 

Gifty’s relationship with Girls Inc. began in 2012 and would go on to shape much of her adolescence. One moment in particular stands out: July 21, 2017, when 15-year-old Gifty, then shy and timid, got to connect with her local Senator. “She asked me what I wanted to do in the future, I said, ‘I want to be an engineer,’ and ‘Eureka! was the inspiration behind that.’” It wasn’t just a bold statement; it was a declaration of intent. And it turned out to be true. 

After graduating from the University of Massachusetts Lowell with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering in 2023, Gifty continued to earn her Master’s in Engineering Management in 2024. Today, she’s thriving in her role as a Quality Engineer I at Avantor. 

Engineering may be Gifty’s profession, but her passion for wellness and culture runs just as deep. In May 2025, she became a Certified Personal Trainer and launched AfroFit Fusion, a high-energy fitness experience that combines Afrobeats, African-inspired dance, and strength training. 

“AfroFit Fusion is about celebrating culture, movement, and wellness,” she explains. “As a Ghanaian American, I wanted to create something joyful and inclusive especially for women of color. It’s more than a workout; it’s a space where people feel seen and connected.” 

When asked about her favorite Girls Inc. moments, Gifty has more than a few: winning the $5,000 Girls Inc. National Scholarship in 2019, being named the Valerie S. Loring Girl of the Year, and presenting Senator Chandler with the inaugural trailblazer award at the 2022 Eureka! College Shower. 

But one of her most meaningful experiences came when she was invited to become an inaugural member of the Girls Inc. Alumnae Association. 

“At the time, I was feeling a little lost and wanted a sense of community back in my life,” she recalls. “When the opportunity came to rejoin Girls Inc. in that way, I didn’t hesitate. “Now, as a role model and mentor to younger girls, Gifty is full of insight. Her advice? 

“Be proactive about your goals. Don’t wait for opportunities to find you; go find them. Pursue something you love, something that doesn’t feel like work. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. The worst they can say is no.” 

She also emphasizes balance: “Find a positive distraction outside your job, a hobby or passion that keeps you grounded and brings you joy.” 

For Gifty, Girls Inc. wasn’t just an after-school program; it was a foundation for growth. Through Girls Inc. she learned financial literacy, developed communication skills, and discovered how to use her voice to make change. 

“Financial literacy was something I never got in school,” she says. “Girls Inc. gave me knowledge and tools that were essential, not just for my career, but for life.” 

It also gave her something less tangible, but equally important: a sense of belonging. “I was basically raised as an only child, so my social life was limited. But at Girls Inc., I was able to come out of my shell. People saw potential in me and encouraged me to use it.” 

Through storytelling, leadership, and community engagement, Gifty continues to pay it forward. “As you get older at Girls Inc., you’ve made your friends, but you’re also leaving an impact on the younger girls. That’s the kind of change that lasts.” 

To the supporters of Girls Inc., Gifty shares a heartfelt message; “Thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do. Girls Inc. has been a part of my life since 2012, and I still feel that support today.” 

Gifty’s story is a vibrant reminder of the power of community, the strength found in culture, and the beauty of forging your own path while lifting others along the way.