Opportunities for girls and young women
Educated young women rise from poverty and drive positive change
Empowering girls and young women
In many regions of the Global South, girls and young women face unique and significant challenges to accessing quality education. Early marriage, social expectations, economic pressure, and even a lack of essential resources like childcare or period products can keep girls from realising their full potential.
For every boy we select two girls
Pestalozzi International’s focus on girls and young women is woven into every programme we run across Zambia, India, and Nepal. For every boy we select two girls!
Through initiatives like the Future Leaders Programme and Skills Hub, we ensure that girls and young women have the opportunity to pursue education and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Focused outreach and selection
We actively work to identify and support girls from the most disadvantaged and marginalised communities. In regions where girls are often left behind, our selection process ensures that girls receive priority access to education. For example, in the Future Leaders Programme, two-thirds of the selected students are girls. This focus on inclusion ensures that those most at risk of missing out on education are given the tools to thrive.
Holistic support for girls’ education
We recognise that girls face unique barriers to education. Whether it’s access to childcare, transportation, or essential menstrual products, we ensure that these practical needs are met. Our programmes provide holistic support that helps girls overcome obstacles and stay engaged with their studies. For young mothers attending the Skills Hub, we offer essential resources such as childcare services and period products, ensuring they don’t have to choose between caring for their children and pursuing their education.
Vocational training for empowerment
In line with our focus on empowering girls, we provide vocational training designed to equip them with practical skills for economic independence. In the SkillsHub, for example, girls are taught digital literacy, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. These skills are essential for securing sustainable livelihoods and helping girls gain the confidence to pursue community leadership roles.
Pestalozzi International writes success stories
"Pestalozzi Zambia empowered me to give back to my community. The education and values I gained inspired me to help others realize that no matter their challenges, they can still pursue their dreams."
Denise returned to the refugee camp where she grew up, to found the ‘GIRL UP’ group to support girls who have become pregnant, particularly those who have not had an education.
Why Girls’ education matters
When girls are given the chance to complete their education, they become self-reliant young women and agents of change who can break the cycle of poverty.
Breaking the cycle of poverty
According to global research, for every extra year a girl stays in secondary school, her income can increase by 10-20%. Studies show that young women who are educated are more likely to reinvest in their families and communities, contributing to improved health, economic growth, and social development.
Changing lives… and communities!
Across our programmes, over 70% of our alumni give back to their communities, many working in public service, healthcare, and education. These young women, once at risk of dropping out, are now leading social change and helping to create more equitable communities.
Help us reach more children
The girls you support transform their lives and positively impact their communities.