As someone who published my first book at the age of nine and was called to speak before audiences of all sizes at an early age, I know firsthand the courage and confidence it takes to use your voice—and the resulting power that comes when you dare to do so.
Months before Vice President Kamala Harris announced her historic run for the presidency—as the first woman, first Black woman, first Indian-American, and first person of Asian-American descent to do so—I launched the VOICE Program (“Helping Girls Leverage Their Voices to Achieve Impact”). This signature initiative cultivates confidence in pre-teen and teen girls, offering tools and resources to support them in becoming dynamic leaders and competent communicators.
Regardless of political affiliation, there isn’t a woman or girl alive whose smiles are not a bit brighter or whose dreams are not bigger after witnessing the courage and fortitude of a remarkable woman redefining what’s possible. Vice President Harris’s trailblazing journey reminds us of the power of using our voices as instruments to erode systemic barriers and shatter glass ceilings at the highest levels of leadership. Her example inspires other girls and women to do the same—creating a ripple effect of action that propels society forward.
Now, more than ever, it is critical to invest in adolescent girls, encouraging them to use their voices as agents of change in their communities and on national and global stages. Girls are not only the future of our movements but integral to the present. Whether advocating for climate justice, challenging racial and socioeconomic inequality, pursuing the right to education, or dismantling gender inequity, girl-led activism is transformative.
As our world grapples with unprecedented crises that will have lasting generational impacts, inspiring and uplifting girls who are already using their voices for social change is essential. This collective work is urgent, and the timing couldn’t be more fortuitous. A unique window has opened where girls and women can expand their aspirations, elevate their voices, and exercise greater choice—leading to outcomes where they wield more influence over their lives and the world.
As a youth advocate and champion for girls, my pledge is to continue advancing their rights and voices, reshaping narratives that suppress their capabilities, reducing the systemic barriers they face, and reforming systems that hinder their growth and success. Girls have a pivotal role to play in creating a world where everyone can lead a healthy and productive life. It’s our collective responsibility to encourage and nurture them to do this work well.
Here are some practical ways to encourage the girl in your life to use their voice for change:
- Instill in Her That Her Voice Matters: Dispel the misperception that children and adolescents—especially girls—do not have valuable contributions to make. There is widespread evidence of girls using their voices to tackle issues of social significance. We should embrace and encourage girls to use their voices at home, in school, and within their communities.
- Press for Progress: Speak up, step out, and organize social movements for change. By advancing gender equality in our lifetime, we help girls and women realize their full potential.
- Be an Example: Advocate for power and leadership opportunities for girls by serving as a role model. Show them the diverse ways they can use their voices to contribute to important dialogues on issues that matter to them.
- Support Initiatives That Celebrate Girls’ Power: The potential of girls is immeasurable. When we work collectively to eliminate barriers that hold them back, incredible things happen. Support initiatives that celebrate their power and foster growth and community.
- Share Opportunities for Girls to Use Their Voices: Help girls explore avenues where they can make an impact. For example, my program the VOICE program (Helping Girls Leverage their Voices to Achieve Impact) provides public speaking and confidence-building opportunities, equipping girls to share their perspectives on issues that are meaningful to them.
About Dr. Erica Austin
Dr. Erica Austin is a visionary social entrepreneur, motivational speaker, humanitarian, and advocate with over 20 years of experience championing entrepreneurship, leadership, and social justice. As the Founder and Executive Director of ECRA Growth & Educational Services, she has transformed a social innovation initiative into a thriving social enterprise, helping individuals reach their highest potential by tapping into their purpose.
Her award-winning work has garnered national media attention and highlights critical social issues. Dr. Austin is the author of two books and a contributing writer for Medium and other publications, where she shares her insights on living a purpose-driven life. Her latest book, Poised for Greatness, is an inspirational guide empowering girls and young women to discover their passions and achieve success with courage, faith, and determination.
Visit her website and stay connected with Dr. Erica Austin on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates, stories, and exclusive announcements.
Dr. Erica Austin is a guest contributor for Washington Area Women’s Foundation.
