Even in the post-pandemic "new normal," the world continues to face significant challenges, especially on gender inequality and children's rights. Young girls, in particular, are consistently the first to suffer and the last to be supported in times of conflict, economic crisis and other difficult situations.

To address these challenges, spark conversations and influence change, World Vision, a global humanitarian organization devoted to improving the lives of children, is holding the #GirlsCan anniversary celebration, together with its advocacy partner Special Olympics Pilipinas and corporate partner Linya-Linya, on 24 September 2023, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Ayala Malls-Manila Bay, the event's official venue partner. The celebration is open to the public.

Now on its fifth year, #GirlsCan aims to recognize the unique struggles faced by girls in the country and globally, promote their rights and foster their empowerment. The celebration will bring together advocates, stakeholders and experts to share their knowledge, foster networking opportunities and discuss World Vision's #GirlsCan achievements and future goals.

Hosted by Janina Vela, the anniversary celebration will feature panel discussions and inspirational talks from empowered Filipinas including Bianca Umali, Ayn Bernos, Joyce Pring-Triviño and many more.

The #GirlsCan anniversary celebration is also a lead up to the International Day of the Girl on 11 October 2023. To sustain the campaign, World Vision Philippines is seeking to help at least 1,000 young Filipinas through its Child Sponsorship program by providing them the right tools to overcome adversity so they can reach their full potential.

Anyone can join the cause by becoming a child sponsor and donating for as low as P25 a day or P750 per month. Through this amount, the sponsor can help provide life-changing essentials for kids such as education, clean water, health and nutrition.

Sponsors can also build a relationship with the child through letters, photos and updates. Ultimately, the goal is to help the sponsored child and her family break free from poverty and build a sustainable community.

"We believe that no girl should be denied the experience of God's love, no matter the circumstances she's in. If provided with the right tools and opportunities, girls can overcome any adversity," said World Vision's executive director Rommel V. Fuerte.

To learn more about how you can make a difference in a young girl's life, visit the #GirlsCan page at https://www.worldvision.org.ph/1000girls/.

For more updates, visit https://www.worldvision.org.ph.