Irvington and Rye Lake Campus students attended the International Day of the Girl annual event on Oct. 9, at Manhattanville University, joining young leaders and advocates to celebrate the power, potential, and voices of girls around the world. The day was filled with keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and meaningful connections.
The Westchester County Youth Bureau, in partnership with local non-profit and private organizations, hosted the annual conference. It is inspired by the United Nations’ International Day of the Girl Child, which was established in 2012, to highlight and uplift girls throughout the world.
The event featured a keynote address by entrepreneur Lauren Morris, founder of Loola Doola, Inc., a performance by the Westchester Children’s Chorus, a vendor room, photo booth and eight breakout sessions on girl-empowerment topics.
Assistant Director for Special Services Dr. Alexandria Connally, who also chairs the Westchester County Youth Board, took part in the day's events.
"There is no limit to what women can do," Dr. Connally said. "Westchester County’s International Day of the Girl is an important reminder that running like a girl means winning the race."
SWBOCES student Jamiyah Oliver said that her favorite part of the day was the sense of community and unity that filled the room.
"Everyone came together to empower and uplift one another," Jamiyah said, "creating an environment of genuine support. It was truly refreshing to be in a non-judgmental space where every voice was valued and every girl was encouraged to shine.”
