GirlForward

2024: A Year of Growth, Challenges, and Unwavering Support. 2024 has been a year of transformation—a year of growth through struggles and challenges. From balancing full-time classes, jobs, and supporting my family to making a real impact on others, this year has shown me that strength is built through community. One of the moments that defined this year for me was receiving the Riverbat Bravo Award at ACC, nominated by my amazing supervisor, Marissa Barber. Being recognized for my leadership and commitment to my peers was a humbling experience, reminding me that our work truly matters. It’s not just about the role we play, but the difference we make in each other’s lives. To my supervisor—thank you for your unwavering support, for pushing me to improve, and for inspiring me to give my best every day. In my role as an ACCelerator Operations Assistant, I have the privilege of helping students in a space designed for their success. Whether troubleshooting tech, offering support, or just being there for students, this role is more than a job—it’s a mission. There’s no better feeling than waking up at 4 a.m. to contribute to the success of the students I care so deeply about. Another milestone this year was the Micro Aid Fund Dinner and Reception, where we raised over $25,000 to support students in need. I had the privilege of working alongside incredible people like Kristen Nemain whose vision made this event happen, Elizabeth Maze whose dedication was invaluable, and LaKisha Barrett whose inspiring words touched everyone. A special thanks to Mervin Jones, LPC for recognizing me with an award for my leadership and for helping us secure the Austin Public Library Special Events Center. Your support was crucial to making this event a success. I also want to thank GirlForward, an organization that has been a constant source of support. As both a volunteer and alum. To Johanna Hosking-Pulido and Wajiha Rizvi (she/her), thank you for attending the fundraising dinner and for always believing in me. Your support means the world. As I reflect on this year, I’m filled with gratitude for the people who’ve helped me get here—my mentors, colleagues, and community. It’s been a year of pushing boundaries, achieving the unexpected, and remembering that growth comes from both struggle and support. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey. I’m excited for what’s ahead.

Spending the holidays with our GirlForward family ❤ From Austin to Chicago, the thread of mentorship brings us together! Join us as we continue connecting girls with a friend for life! 🫶 P.S. An anonymous donor has pledged an ADDITIONAL match of up to $5000! Your gift today will have DOUBLE the impact, and it's just what we need to help us reach our goal! Spread the holiday cheer and help GirlForward's story continue! Donate here: https://lnkd.in/g8GBqYcV #mentorship #girlforward #girlseducation #nonprofit #chicago #austin #supportlocal #sisterhood

💌 P.S. From Me to You... Our Executive Director Johanna and the girls came together for a little message and they had help from a few familiar faces ✨ Hear how GirlForward's legacy has grown over the years and how you can help us carry it forward! Send in your support here: https://lnkd.in/g8GBqYcV #girlforward #girlseducation #legacy #sisterhood #refugeeswelcomehere #nonprofit #austin #chicago #supportlocal

📣 Time is running out! 📣 Help us reach our New Year's dreams! We're $23K short of our $100,000 goal, and we need your help before midnight tomorrow 💌 Every dollar is an investment in hope, in justice, and in the unshakable belief that every girl deserves to thrive. Can you give today? 💕 Invest in our sisterhood here: https://lnkd.in/g8GBqYcV #girlforward #girlseducation #nonprofit #supportlocal #sisterhood #mentorship #austin #chicago #donate

Create a lasting impact one stitch at a time! 🥰 Our GirlForward story relies on each individual thread of support, and no gift is too small to help us grow! Become a monthly donor today to ensure that our incredible community continues into the new year 🥳 Become a monthly donor here! https://lnkd.in/g8GBqYcV #sisterhood #Mentorship #girlforward #girlseducation #refugeeswelcomehere #supportlocal #donate #austin #chicago #give #Monthly #donors

💌 P.S. From Me to You... Our Executive Director Johanna and the girls came together for a little message and they had help from a few familiar faces ✨ Hear how GirlForward's legacy has grown over the years and how you can help us carry it forward! Send in your support here: https://lnkd.in/g8GBqYcV #girlforward #girlseducation #legacy #sisterhood #refugeeswelcomehere #nonprofit #austin #chicago #supportlocal