Discover how one young woman’s passion and her mom’s unwavering support are turning big dreams into real-world change.
Back-to-school season means fresh notebooks, new routines, and, for some students, brand-new opportunities to lead. At Plan International, our Youth Advisory Board is where bold ideas meet real impact. This group of passionate teens and young adults from across the U.S. works side by side with Plan’s leadership to ensure young voices are part of the decisions shaping the future for girls everywhere.
One of those changemakers is Byronie, a university student and advocate for educational equity whose passion for global youth policy is matched by her mom Sara’s dedication to empowering women and communities. Together, they offer a rare, dual perspective on leadership — one from a young leader finding her voice, and the other from the parent who has been cheering, guiding and inspiring her every step of the way.
Come meet Byronie and Sara and see how leadership can start at home — and grow to reach the world.
Byronie (right) and her mom, Sara, share how family support can help young leaders thrive — from the kitchen table to the world stage.
“Love” — one word that describes us
Byronie: “As daughter to the best mom in the world, she is undoubtedly my best friend and the person I tell everything to. Whether it’s personal or professional, she gives the best advice, and I constantly think, ‘I want to be her when I grow up!’”
Sara: “For me, love is everything — and my family is at the heart of it all.”
A proud beginning
Sara: “Philanthropy and giving back to the community have always been important to me. Seeing Byronie take on new challenges and find her own path and causes that are meaningful to her has been a highlight of watching her grow up. I am incredibly proud of her commitment to service and can’t wait to see what unfolds for her.”
A global perspective
Sara: “I’ve seen her perspective expand so much since she started working with Plan. At first, her view was shaped mainly by her own experiences and what she observed at home in Portland, Oregon, and in the U.S. However, through her work with Plan, she has connected with young people from across the globe and gained a profound understanding of the challenges they face. It’s been incredible to watch her develop a more global and deeply empathetic outlook — one grounded in a broader awareness of what young people are experiencing around the world versus just within her community.”
A moment that stood out
Sara: “One moment that really stands out for me was when Byronie was invited to attend the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. It was such an incredible opportunity — especially at her age — to be surrounded by powerful voices and global leaders. I could see how much it impacted her. She came home more confident, more thoughtful and with a real sense of purpose. Experiences like that are shaping who she is and who she’s becoming, and I’m just so grateful she’s had the chance to be part of something so meaningful.”
Support every step of the way
Byronie: “My mom has been there, truly, every step of the way in my journey with Plan — both in the Youth Advisory Board and running the London Marathon with Plan. She is my biggest supporter and my biggest advocate. My mother is the most important woman in my life. But more than anything, she is also my inspiration. Growing up, she was always a champion for causes she cares about — a leader focused on humanity and connection. She always led with poise, grace and organization. I aspire to be that kind of leader and that kind of woman. It is her example that I have found most supportive in these last two years at Plan.”
Byronie (right) and Sara know that big change often starts with the people who believe in you most.
Lessons in independence
Sara: “I’m constantly learning from Byronie, but if I had to name one thing that really stands out, it’s independence. This year, she lived abroad in the United Kingdom, and that experience felt even more significant than when she first left for college. So much of my identity has been centered around being a mom, and watching her spread her wings in such a big way — so far from home — was both beautiful and challenging. I’ve had to come to terms with her growing independence, and in doing so, I’ve found myself reevaluating my path as well. As she steps into this exciting chapter of young adulthood, I’m also beginning to explore new opportunities and experiences I hadn’t had the bandwidth for before. It’s been a season of growth for both of us.”
What we admire most
Sara: “It’s hard to choose just one thing I admire most about Byronie, but what stands out is how deeply caring and empathetic she is — it’s just part of who she is. I admire her kindness, her determination and the way she shows up wholeheartedly for the people she loves and the causes she believes in. She has always had a strong inner drive to make a difference, and I know that her passion for creating a better world will carry her far in whatever path she chooses to pursue.”
Advice for other families
Sara: “I’d tell any parent with a child interested in YAB to be supportive and open-minded. For our family, it was incredible to see how Byronie’s eyes were opened to the very real and varied challenges that youth face around the world. It gave her perspective — some of the things she used to worry about started to feel smaller in comparison. Being part of YAB broadened her understanding of global issues and policy in a way that has shaped her view of the world. But even as they step into big ideas and take on the important work of Plan, they’re still young — and they still need our support and guidance. It’s essential to be present to discuss what they’re learning and the emotions associated with this experience.”
Looking ahead
Sara: “I’ve seen her grow so much, both personally and professionally, through her time at YAB. Her view of the world has expanded, and she has acquired critical professional skills, including leadership, communication, working with diverse team members, and managing, motivating and supporting others. I believe this experience is helping to prepare her for whatever challenges she may face in the workplace and life. What matters most to me is how YAB has sparked a deeper curiosity in her and a real desire to connect with people. I hope she always holds on to that empathy and her strong sense of our shared humanity and keeps working toward a kinder, more just world. Change doesn’t always come from big, dramatic moments — it’s often the small, everyday actions rooted in kindness and compassion that really make a difference. She’s already taking those steps, and I’m sure she’ll keep making a difference in everything she puts her heart into.”
Closing reflection
From international conferences to everyday conversations at home, Byronie’s journey with the YAB has been shaped by both her own determination and the steady encouragement of her mom. Sara’s pride in her daughter’s growth is matched by her belief that parents play a vital role in helping young leaders thrive — not by leading for them, but by creating the space and support they need to lead themselves.
Their story is a reminder that leadership isn’t just about the titles we hold but about the people who stand beside us as we learn, grow and take action. Sometimes, the first step toward changing the world starts with someone at home saying, “I believe in you.”
