In many communities, girls are often confined to household responsibilities, limiting their opportunities to explore their potential. They are expected to take care of siblings, fetch water, and perform domestic chores, leaving little room for education, self-development, or even play. The Shakti Girls Leadership Program is changing this narrative by creating safe spaces where girls can learn, play, and develop leadership skills.

The program focuses on raising awareness and educating girls on Menstrual Health Management (MHM), Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). These topics are rarely discussed in their communities, leading to significant challenges such as early marriages, limited autonomy, and exposure to STIs and early pregnancies. The program provides essential education, equipping girls with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their health and future.

Another key objective is building confident community leaders. Through leadership training, girls develop skills that help them act as role models in their local communities. The program encourages them to take initiative, voice their opinions, and challenge societal norms that restrict their opportunities. By empowering them with leadership skills, they gain the ability to influence stakeholders and advocate for change.

Football is at the heart of the Shakti Girls Leadership Program. Beyond being a sport, it is a powerful tool for teamwork, confidence-building, and leadership development. Through structured football sessions, girls not only learn the game but also gain important life skills such as communication, resilience, and problem-solving. Playing in a team helps them build friendships, foster unity, and break barriers that have traditionally kept them away from sports.

Workshops are an integral part of the program, covering essential topics such as menstrual hygiene management, SRHR, and GBV awareness. These interactive sessions break taboos and ensure that girls have access to proper knowledge and resources. Confidence and leadership training sessions further encourage them to stand up for their rights, develop self-worth, and prepare for leadership roles in various aspects of life.

The Shakti Girls Leadership Program was conducted across three locations: Chennai from January 11th to 12th, Delhi on January 13th and 14th, and Pune from January 18th to 19th, 2025. These sessions brought together young girls from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to share experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen their leadership capabilities.

At the end of the program, the girls were encouraged and recognized for their participation by receiving certificates of participation. This acknowledgment not only celebrated their commitment and efforts but also motivated them to continue their journey of leadership and empowerment.

During the Pune session, participants were asked what leadership meant to them. They expressed that women in leadership signify progress not just for themselves but for their communities and the nation. They shared examples of Rani Lakshmibai and Savitribai Phule, who fought for the freedom of rights, and reflected on how they too could demonstrate leadership by creating change and using their voices to achieve their goals.

The impact of the Shakti Girls Leadership Program extends beyond the individual participants. It is about creating a ripple effect in the community. When these girls gain knowledge and leadership skills, they inspire and educate others around them. They challenge existing societal structures, influence their communities, and advocate for greater opportunities and autonomy for women and girls.

The vision of the Shakti Girls Leadership Program is to build a generation of strong, informed, and confident young women who can stand up for themselves and others. By providing a platform for learning, leadership, and play, the program is shaping a future where girls are seen, heard, and respected.

Together, we can create a world where every girl has the opportunity to lead, thrive, and make a difference.