I found out what I truly was with the help of Girls Inc. I became stronger. I learned that I didn’t have to make myself smaller just to make someone feel better. I was shown all these powerful women throughout history that fought for their rights. Fought for their own freedom. They gave me the strength to fight for something more than just being someone else’s girlfriend. I became smarter. I was shown how to finance my money and make investments. I learned about all these jobs in STEM that were open to me. Things that I never thought I needed were now all available at my fingertips.

I became bold. I was no longer someone else’s girl. I was a force to be reckoned with. I’ve been equipped with the tools to take care of myself and the knowledge to get me where I need to be.

Girls Inc. opened up a whole new world for me and no matter where my life takes me I know I will be able to handle it because I am strong, smart, and bold. I AM Selena.

Selena, age 18