Empowering young girls, promoting their rights

NEXTGEN

The world has long been facing significant challenges, especially on gender inequality and children's rights. Young girls, in particular, are consistently the first to suffer, 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, recently held the #GirlsCan Anniversary Celebration, together with its advocacy partner Special Olympics Pilipinas and corporate partner Linya-Linya, at the Ayala Malls–Manila Bay, the event's official venue partner. The celebration was open to the public.

"We believe that when girls are empowered and given the right opportunities and the right tools, they can make a difference in the society," said Jun Godornes, World Vision Resource Development director.

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 brings 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 featured inspirational talks from empowered Filipinas including Bianca Umali, Ayn Bernos and Joyce Pring-Triviño. Renowned singers Christian Bautista and Aicelle Santos also showed their support to the campaign through a sweet serenade and meaningful messages for the attendees.

To sustain the campaign, World Vision Philippines is seeking to help at least 1,000 young Filipinas through its Child Sponsorship program so they can reach their full potential by providing them the right tools to overcome adversity.

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 his/her family break free from poverty and build a sustainable community.