Unlocking Her Potential: Power, Access, and Opportunity for Girls
Event Description
Across Africa and other regions, more girls are in school than ever before. Yet millions still face structural barriers that limit their ability to learn, lead, and thrive, from early marriage and gender-based violence to economic exclusion and under-resourced systems.
This session explores what it truly takes to unlock the potential of marginalized girls, not just through access to education, but by addressing the deeper systems that shape their opportunities. Why do gains in schooling not always translate into participation in the workforce, leadership, or STEM pathways?
We will examine how to identify and nurture talent early, support girls to build agency, and design solutions that reach those furthest from power, including girls in rural and underserved communities. The conversation will also highlight girl-led models of change, where girls move from being beneficiaries to active leaders shaping their own futures.
Grounded in real-world examples and lived experience, this session will focus on how funding, policy, and practice can align to create pathways for girls to realize their full potential and drive broader societal transformation.
Speakers
Dhirendra Pratap Singh is Founder and CEO of Milaan Foundation, advancing youth development and gender equity through leadership and research-driven initiatives.
Gabby Guerra is Fundraising and Communications Senior Manager at Charmaghz, advancing education access through strategic communications and partnerships.
Jedidah Lemaron is Founder and Executive Director of The Malkia Initiative, advancing agency and rights for adolescent girls and young women in Kenya.
Tushanka Nair is Head of Research and Girls in STEM at Avanti Fellows, advancing gender equity and STEM education for girls.
Discussion Questions
What barriers continue to prevent girls from accessing and benefiting from education and opportunity?
Why do increased education outcomes not always translate into workforce participation and leadership?
What does it take to design solutions that reach girls furthest from power?
How can girls be supported as leaders and changemakers, not just beneficiaries?
Location & access
Accessibility matters deeply to us, and we do our best to choose spaces that reflect that. That said, some of our Oxford venues are in historic buildings without lifts. This room is unfortunately not accessible for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges, or anyone needing step-free access.