When our board member Mary Murigi was a young girl in rural Kenya, she thought she could only be one of three things: a nurse, a secretary, or a teacher. She believed this because that was all she had ever seen a "successful woman" be—until a group of young women started a mentorship program at her primary school.

"These were college students studying law, engineering, and medicine while others had just started social initiatives to support girls like me. I remember that moment with fondness in my heart, the realization that I can be more, that I can lead, that I can help other girls like me; it was the beginning of my journey to becoming who I am today."

When Mary was 11, a distinguished visitor who worked for girls' rights came to speak at her school. Mary was very impressed that the woman was there to address the children about her many accomplishments—and had driven up in her own car! The teachers asked Mary to recite a poem to entertain the guest; after her performance, the guest asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up.

"And I couldn't think about anything else, but I just told her I want to be like you."

Mary is now an accomplished CPA and grants, finance, and operations manager who has earned her MBA. But she still remembers that day in grade 6 and has since dedicated her life—personally and professionally—to empowering girls to see their full potential. The mentors in her life broke barriers and lifted her along with them each step of the way.

"It is therefore very personal for me to be a part of She's the First's world, to not only contribute my time and expertise to an organization whose mission I strongly believe in but also increase my impact on girls' lives—as other women did in my lived experience."

Will you give today to empower girls to see their full potential? Donations this month will support the Partner Coalition, which is made up of grassroots organizations led by local women who show girls that they can grow beyond society's expectations.