Rising Stars: Celebrating the Achievements of Young Black Girls in STEM, Writing, and Leadership
In this special LightRay! Media Empowering a Brighter Future: Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child series, we put together a collage of young African teens and adults between the ages of 11 to 25 who are spreading their #BlackGirlMagic across the globe.
October 11th marks the International Day of the Girl Child, a global observance declared by the United Nations in 2012. This day serves as a catalyst for promoting girls’ empowerment, advocating for their rights, and addressing the unique challenges they face. The theme “My Voice, Our Equal Future” emphasizes the importance of listening to girls’ voices as well as boys to create a more equitable world.
The International Day of the Girl Child highlights the disparities and inequalities that girls encounter daily, including:
– Limited access to education and healthcare
– Child marriage and teenage pregnancy
– Gender-based violence and discrimination
– Lack of representation in leadership and decision-making
However, empowering girls is only half the equation. To create a truly inclusive and equitable society, it’s essential to engage and educate boys as well. By involving boys in the conversation, we can:
– Break down harmful gender stereotypes
– Foster healthy relationships and mutual respect
– Promote positive masculinity
– Encourage boys to become allies and advocates for girls’ rights
On this International Day of the Girl Child, we recognize that empowering both girls and boys is crucial for achieving:
– Gender equality
– Social justice
– Economic growth
– Sustainable development
In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, we shine a spotlight on remarkable young Black girls who are breaking barriers and achieving excellence in STEM, writing, speaking, and career achievements. Their stories serve as inspiration and testament to the potential of girls everywhere.
By Ejiro Umukoro
In a world where diversity and representation matter, young Black girls are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings in STEM, writing, speaking, and career achievements. From Nigeria to the United States, these trailblazers, aged 11-25, are redefining what’s possible.
STEM Superstars
- 11-year-old Nigerian coding whiz, Zuri Scrivens, created an educational app teaching kids African languages.
- 17-year-old Ghanaian-American, Maame Biney, became the first Black woman to win an Olympic medal in speed skating.
- 20-year-old Kenyan, Patricia Kameri, developed a solar-powered water purification system.
Literary Leaders
- 12-year-old American, Marley Dias, founded #1000BlackGirlBooks, promoting diversity in children’s literature.
- 19-year-old Nigerian, Tomi Adeyemi, authored the bestselling “Children of Blood and Bone” trilogy.
- 22-year-old South African, Zikho Pali, won the PEN International Poetry Prize.
Oratory Excellence
- 14-year-old American, Greta Thunberg-inspired climate activist, Nadia Nazar, delivered a powerful TEDx Talk.
- 18-year-old Ghanaian, Chantal Kakyere, won the World Schools Debate Championship.
- 21-year-old Nigerian, Olamide Olorunfemi, became a renowned spoken word poet.
Career Achievers
- 15-year-old American, Mikaila Ulmer, founded Me & the Bees Lemonade, a successful social enterprise.
- 20-year-old Kenyan, Angela Wanjiku, developed an innovative agricultural app.
- 24-year-old South African, Zandile Mkwanazi, became a leading fintech entrepreneur.
These remarkable young women are redefining the narrative, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring a generation. Their achievements serve as a testament to the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As we celebrate these rising stars, we must continue to support and empower young Black girls, providing them with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive.
The Future is Bright
The accomplishments of these young Black girls demonstrate that with determination, hard work, and support, anything is possible. They are the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow.
Join us in celebrating these trailblazers and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Share Your Story: Know a young Black girl making waves in STEM, writing, speaking, or career achievements? Share her story with us via WhatsApp: +234803926901
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