Empowering the Next Generation: Attending the National Girls Inc. Luncheon in NYC

On March 11th, I had the privilege of attending the National Girls Inc. Luncheon in New York City, an inspiring event dedicated to uplifting and empowering young women through education, mentorship, and opportunity. This invitation, extended by Rashida Hodge, CVP of Data & AI for Global Customer Success at Microsoft, brought together a select group of women leaders and allies to celebrate the incredible work being done to close the gender gap in STEM and leadership.

Why This Event Matters

Girls Inc. has long been at the forefront of advocating for young girls, ensuring they have the resources, confidence, and skills to succeed in any field especially in STEM and technology. As a proud board member of Girls Inc., Rashida Hodge has been a fierce advocate for women and underrepresented communities, and this event provided an incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share this vision.

Highlights from the Luncheon

Sitting at the table with brilliant women leaders and allies, we engaged in powerful discussions about mentorship, breaking barriers, and paving the way for the next generation. The stories shared were inspiring and deeply personal, underscoring the impact of representation and advocacy in shaping young girls' futures.

One of the most moving moments was hearing directly from young girls in the Girls Inc. program their journeys, challenges, and triumphs reminded us why investing in mentorship, education, and leadership development is so critical.

Looking Ahead: The Power of Collective Action

As someone deeply invested in bridging the gap for women in STEM, this experience reinforced my commitment to ensuring that young women especially those from underserved communities have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Representation matters. Support matters. Investing in the next generation of leaders matters.

A huge thank you to Rashida Hodge and the BAM ERG NYC/NJ Chapter for this incredible opportunity. I’m excited to take these learnings back to Girlz Love Tech, continue advocating for young women in STEM, and expand opportunities for the next wave of innovators.