Game-Changing Merger to Empower Girls Worldwide
Two dynamic international nonprofits are coming together to ignite change and improve girls' education and opportunities globally. Girl Rising and She's the First have announced their plans to merge, creating a powerful alliance on International Day of the Girl. This merger aims to unite school-based life-skills education, community mentoring, and girls' leadership platforms, providing a more substantial impact that resonates across communities.
The Vision Behind the Merger
The merger marks a pivotal moment for both organizations. By combining Girl Rising's impactful RISE program, which utilizes storytelling to build girls' awareness of gender equality, with She's the First's extensive network of women-led partners and leadership programs, they are poised to reach over 500,000 young people in-person. Additionally, they plan to extend their online resources to impact a staggering 7 million adolescents across different regions over the next three years.
Leaders Voices on the Merger
"In light of widening funding gaps and increasing backlash against girls' rights, this merger allows us to create a seamless transition from classrooms to communities, ensuring that every girl has access to learning and leadership resources," said Nidhi Shukla, President of Girl Rising.
Kate Kiama, co-CEO of She's the First, emphasized, "Our integrated model embodies the lessons learned in the field about fostering profound, durable change. Achieving lasting impact requires shifting deeply rooted mindsets and promoting local leadership while ensuring girls are at the forefront of discussions."
Leadership Structure and Future Initiatives
As part of the merger, She's the First will be incorporated into Girl Rising's 501(c)(3). The Girl Rising name will carry on, evolving to encompass the broader mission the unified organization will adopt. Notably, both organizations will maintain their legacies, including She's the First name and contributions in programming and storytelling.
The new structure will see Christina Lowery and Nidhi Shukla serve as co-CEOs, overseeing a new phase of growth. Kate Kiama will transition into the role of VP of Global Programs while Tammy Tibbetts, co-founder of She's the First, will become Chief Advisor. Moreover, a new Board of Directors, featuring members from both organizations, will guide the strategic direction of the merged entity.
Launching Programs and Expanding Reach
In their initial collaborative effort, Girl Rising plans to launch a pioneering program in Kenya, melding the government-accredited RISE curriculum with community mentoring and girl leadership activities from She's the First. This pilot aims to enhance learning and provide insights for future regional integrations in Latin America and South Asia.
Furthermore, both organizations have created a seamless process for girls worldwide to engage in their initiatives. Applications for the Girl Rising Fellowship and the Girls Advisory Council are open and encourage global participation.
Voices of Experience
Allison Choong, a young member of the She's the First Board of Directors, highlighted the importance of incorporating girls' voices throughout the merger process. She remarked, "Girls in upcoming programs will benefit not just at home but in their schools as well. Having the backing of She's the First alongside the Girl Rising RISE curriculum amplifies the support and education accessible to more girls, which fills me with hope."
This announcement is accompanied by an op-ed exploring the strategic significance of nonprofit mergers to create stronger organizations and improve outcomes for girls. Leaders from both organizations will also feature on platforms discussing the benefits and insights gained from this merger.
The merger is supported by generous funders including Diana Barrett for The Fledgling Fund and others, who have contributed towards ensuring the seamless integration without interrupting resources allocated to existing programs. The merger's completion is subject to regulatory approvals, marking an exciting new chapter in the collective mission of Girl Rising and She's the First.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the merger between Girl Rising and She's the First?
The merger combines the strengths of both organizations to enhance girls' education and leadership opportunities globally.
Who will lead the new organization formed by the merger?
Christina Lowery and Nidhi Shukla will serve as co-CEOs of the merged organization.
What programs will be initiated post-merger?
The first initiative will be a pilot program in Kenya combining RISE's curriculum with community mentoring from She's the First.
How will the merger impact girls globally?
The merger aims to reach over 500,000 young individuals in-person and 7 million online through shared resources.
Why are mergers like this important for girls’ rights?
Strategic mergers can amplify resources and advocacy efforts, creating a stronger platform for girls' rights and education.
