Skills Development
Leadership and skills development
Since 2012 · Freetown
Girls leading change in Sierra Leone
A holistic girl-driven organization that nurtures and transforms girls into effective leaders and social change agents in their communities — so they can realize their dreams.
Our vision
“A world with a new generation of powerful young women leaders and change makers who are well positioned and equipped to change their societies.”
What we focus on
Four pillars, with self-development at the core
Activism
Advocacy and social change
Well-being
Physical and mental wellness education
Academic Enrichment
Academic support and learning
Year-round, not one-off
Six years alongside every girl
Girls join GESL in JSS1 at 11–13 and graduate at SS2. In between come the triennial Summit, mentorship circles led by Sierra Leonean women, community development projects, and emergency assistance that keeps families — and girls' education — standing through crisis.
Explore the journeyIGNITE Series
Ending violence against women and girls
A blended series of local events, podcasts, videos and print that sharpens the advocacy and activism skills of the girls who take part.
See the impact