For many girls, leadership potential exists long before opportunity does. Yet too often, young girls lack safe spaces to build confidence, learn leadership skills, and support one another.
This gap inspired MATCH Foundation to launch the Lean In Girls initiative, and over the past 18 months, the program has engaged more than 2,000 girls across 13 primary schools in Lilongwe District. Through mentorship, discussions, and leadership sessions, girls were encouraged to explore their voice, confidence, and ability to support one another.
February marked a major milestone in this journey with the official launch of Lean In Girls Clubs. These clubs represent lasting impact on the girls leadership journey as well as sustainability for the program.
Through this initiative, 400 girls representing the 12 participating schools were trained as peer mentors, empowering them to run their own leadership clubs and create supportive brave spaces for their fellow students.
The launch was honoured by the presence of Mrs. Elizabeth Chimutu, Principal Education Officer, whose inspiring message encouraged the girls to believe in their voices and step confidently into leadership.
The Lean In Girls initiative has grown from conversations into a movement — one that continues to nurture the next generation of confident young women leaders.
