Girls Talk Back 2025: Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers

Written by: Leela Bilmes-Goldstein

Girls Talk Back ends with a Showcase

This summer, Girls Talk Back (GTB) welcomed 13 young women from Hawai‘i public schools to participate in its sixth annual leadership and peacebuilding program. Designed for girls ages 14–18, GTB provides a safe, empowering space where students explore identity, leadership, social justice, and community engagement, culminating in youth-led action plans to address real-world issues.

Throughout the four-week program, participants met four times per week, engaging in dynamic workshops led by a dedicated teaching team, 16 guest speakers, and f

our community mentors. Speakers included Rep. Amy Perruso, Officer Jasmine Marzo-Lum of HPD, journalist Ashley Mizuo, and many others. The curriculum, created by educator Daniela Goddard and grounded in Ceeds of Peace’s youth-centered action planning framework, encourages participants to reflect deeply on their values, strengthen their leadership skills, and apply what they’ve learned through project-based learning. The program is offered free of charge, including healthy meals at every session, to ensure access and equity.

This year’s action plans were bold and inspiring. Topics ranged from period equity in schools and culturally relevant Hawaiian studies curricula to youth-led college readiness resources and community literacy initiatives. Participants presented their work at a culminating community forum, using the event to pitch ideas, build momentum, and connect with supporters. This year, original slam poetry by the participants was an exciting addition to the final showcase.

Beyond the projects themselves, the program’s impact was evident in the confidence, voice, and clarity with which each student spoke. Pre- and post-program surveys revealed marked growth in leadership, community engagement, peer mentorship, and comfort with public speaking. As one participant shared, “I now feel more confident, more connected, and more committed to making change.”

This program taught me how to use my voice to speak up for what matters—to lead

with confidence and compassion. I feel like I finally know who I am and what I can do.

— GTB 2025 Participant

As a previous mentor and speaker, I’ve seen firsthand how Girls Talk Back empowers

young women to get involved, think critically, and boldly take on real-world issues with

creativity and purpose. The program doesn’t just inspire; it equips the next generation of

changemakers to find their voice and lead with impact. Every time I engage with these

incredible girls, I walk away inspired by their heart, insight, and the hope they bring to

our future.

— GTB 2025 Speaker, Alicia Griep

GTB was originally developed in 2019 by a partnership of AAUW – Honolulu Branch, Women’s Fund of Hawai‘i, and Ceeds of Peace to address the persistent underrepresentation of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women in leadership. Now an independent nonprofit, Girls Talk Back continues to invest in Hawai‘i’s future by empowering the young women who will lead it.

When you support Girls Talk Back, you're investing in the next generation of women leaders—young people who are already creating change in their communities. Your donation helps us keep the program free, accessible, and impactful. We also welcome mentors, guest speakers, and partners who can walk alongside our students as they grow.

Donate today or volunteer with GTB:

Email: info@girlstalkbackhawaii.org

Visit: www.girlstalkbackhawaii.org