Meet Ana Victoria, a young leader proving that when girls are empowered, they transform their futures and their communities.
What does leadership look like for girls in Guatemala? Many face obstacles like early marriage, limited education and gender discrimination, making leadership seem out of reach. But young women like 19-year-old Ana Victoria are proving that, when given the chance, girls can lead change in their communities.
Watch Ana Victoria’s story here.
Ana Victoria grew up in rural Guatemala, where girls’ voices often go unheard. Many struggle to stay in school, are pressured into early marriage and have little opportunity to participate in decision-making.
For years, Ana Victoria felt she had to stay silent.
“I was always afraid of being in public,” she says. “I couldn’t speak in front of others.”
That changed when she joined Plan International’s leadership school, where girls build confidence, learn advocacy skills and challenge gender discrimination together.
“When people started listening, I realized I had a talent for public speaking,” Ana Victoria shares. “Leadership empowered me.”
Today, Ana Victoria fights for girls’ rights across Guatemala. She and other young women in the program are speaking out against gender-based violence, advocating for policies that protect girls and proving that young people have the power to lead.
How leadership schools are making a difference
Ana Victoria’s story is just one example of how leadership schools are helping girls step into their power. Across Guatemala, young women who once felt unheard are now standing up for their rights, challenging gender norms and shaping the future.
These schools are not just about education — they are about giving girls the space and support to lead.
1. Developing leadership and advocacy skills.
2. Helping girls build confidence to speak out.
3. Challenging expectations and showing what young women can achieve.
How you can help
These programs thrive because people like you believe in the power of girls. Through our Gifts of Hope catalog, you can help young women gain the education and leadership skills they need to change their futures.
Give a girl the tools to lead her own future:
— Scholarships for girls: Help young women stay in school and develop leadership skills.
— School essentials: Provide books and supplies so girls can focus on learning.
— Menstrual health kits: Help ensure periods don’t stop girls from going to school.
Your support can help more emerging leaders to raise their voices and step into their power. Explore the Gifts of Hope catalog today.
