On October 11, 2025, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of girls everywhere. The International Day of the Girl shines a light on the ongoing inequalities that too many girls still face around the world. It’s also a day to recognize the power of girls to create change, challenge injustice, and lead their communities toward a brighter future.
This year’s theme is “The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis”. This theme reminds us that girls are not just victims of the world’s challenges, but are agents of transformation. Around the world, girls are organizing for climate action, demanding an end to violence, and reimagining what leadership looks like.
At Help Lesotho, we see this truth every day. Over 42% of Basotho women have experienced physical or sexual violence, with over 15% of women experiencing this before the age of 15. Additionally, women’ s freedom is often constrained by laws, societal norms, and a pervasive ideology of patriarchy, limiting their independence. While efforts have been made to introduce civil laws that address gender inequality, customary norms often prevail.
We wish to shine a light on the girls in our programs who are standing up for their rights, building confidence, pursuing their education, and leading with compassion to overcome gender inequality in Lesotho.
Meisi, a Pearl Girl and Pearl Girl Mentor, shared:
“Before I was stressed to say anything wrong. But being a Pearl Girl and Mentor helped me learn to talk and share ideas. Now I join everything and have things to say.” She went on to say, “I was always being told I am unique, just like unique pearl stones. I learned self-esteem and human rights. It really helped me be a leader. Next year I will be head girl at my school. Teachers could see my self-esteem so they chose me. I’m open with other people.”
Lisebo, a member of Help Lesotho’s Pearl Program, improved her self-esteem and learned how to believe in herself as she grows up. Now as a Pearl Girl Mentor, she is inspiring other girls.
The many stories from girls like Lisebo and Meisi are proof that when girls are supported, entire communities thrive. Our programs are dedicated towards helping girls in Lesotho gain access to education, psychosocial support, and safe spaces where they can heal, learn, grow, and lead.
So, on the International Day of the Girl, we want to share the incredible strength and leadership demonstrated by girls that will help push Lesotho into the future.
