Rebecca, a Girls Inc. of Alameda County alumna, had parents who encouraged her to get involved and pursue what she wanted out of life. However, as young Latina girls often experience, she faced obstacles and received limiting messages. Her school had little science and technology curriculum, no comprehensive sexual health education, and no space to ask bigger questions and as she describes it “think outside the box.”
Girls Inc. provided that opportunity for her. Her elementary school served as a pilot for Girls Inc. STEM programming. She received hands-on learning and was inspired by the female scientists and engineers she met through Girls Inc.. Learning about healthy sexuality and relationships was also something she really enjoyed. Rebecca was amazed at how open and educated the instructors were; she felt empowered about her body and decisions. In fact, it motivated her to return to Girls Inc. as a Health & Sexuality Instructor years later. Girls Inc. mentors pushed her and allowed her to ask those bigger questions. She was able to find her voice and discover what motivated her. So much so, that she created her own major at the University of California, Berkeley: Women’s Health and Sexuality.
Girls Inc. definitely made an impression in Rebecca’s life. An entrepreneur, she is currently developing her own line of women’s health products and when she enters rooms full of CEOs to present her work, she says she can “literally feel the Girls Inc. spirit.” The support, education, and opportunities she experienced not only educated but motivated her to achieve. A mother to a young girl herself, Rebecca, knows what it means to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold.
Are you a Girls Inc. alumna? Share how Girls Inc. impacted your life and shaped who you are today on the Alumnae Group Facebook page or via email. Tell us about your latest accomplishments and how you are inspiring other girls.