This International Day of the Girl, commemorated annually on Oct. 11, AHF teams around the world celebrated the power, resilience, and voices of girls everywhere while empowering them to protect their health, access lifesaving HIV services, and build a future where all girls can thrive.

Continue reading and click on the photos to explore all the highlights and inspirational images from AHF’s International Day of the Girl events around the world. 

Across Asia, AHF teams commemorated International Day of the Girl by empowering young people through education, leadership, and creative expression. Activities included HIV and sexual health education in schools, interactive games and quizzes, and public speaking sessions to build confidence. Public art performances also gave girls a platform to express themselves and share their creativity. 

Teams also hosted leadership workshops, promoted women’s access to education, and engaged boys in discussions on advancing gender equality. To expand menstrual health access, a pad vending machine was installed in a local community, offering free products.

Across Africa, AHF teams marked International Day of the Girl with dynamic reproductive health lessons for students, using songs, poems, and performances to make learning about HIV prevention interactive and memorable. Teams also collaborated with religious and traditional leaders to advocate for the empowerment of girls and young women, while students called for stronger reporting systems in schools to address gender-based violence.

Youth engaged parliamentarians on key issues, including taxation of period products and access to education and sexual and reproductive health services. Peer educators joined health providers on radio programs to highlight the importance of education and the empowerment of young people.

In Latin America and the Caribbean, AHF teams involved parents and caregivers in reproductive and health education strengthening family dialogue. Girls in vulnerable situations received school kits, including new uniforms and tablets, helping to remove barriers to education and support their learning.

At a press conference, Girls Act members called for equal access and opportunity for girls to grow and thrive. Meanwhile, a local fair gave girls the platform to showcase their handmade products and build confidence in their skills.

AHF teams in Europe promoted confidence, health, and opportunity for young women and girls through self-esteem workshops, open discussions on sexual health, and interactive sessions on body awareness and personal safety.

They also energized participants with a ninja obstacle course promoting healthy lifestyles, highlighted women’s opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and empowered local refugee communities through music.

CHECK OUT MORE FROM GIRLS ACT

Active in nearly 40 countries, Girls Act is AHF's global program that equips girls and young women with the knowledge, resources, and peer support they need to stay free from HIV and other STIs, access and adhere to lifesaving HIV treatment, remain in school, and prevent unplanned pregnancies.

For more information on our Girls Act programming, please contact girlsact@aidshealth.org or visit GirlsAct.org.

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