In the landscape of advocacy for adolescent girls, Aditi Arora stands at the forefront as the India Country Manager of Girl Up, a movement initiated by the UN Foundation in 2010. Her journey is one marked by a relentless pursuit of empowering young minds and advocating for the rights and well-being of girls across the nation.
Founded with the mission to support UN agencies focusing on adolescent girls, Girl Up, under Aditi Arora’s leadership, has made significant strides. The movement boasts empowering over 10,000 youth change-makers spread across 200 cities in India. Their approach involves raising awareness and advocating for critical issues such as gender-based violence, period poverty, and mental health.
Arora’s vision extends beyond awareness; she believes in equipping young women with essential skills. Girl Up actively engages in training initiatives, offering skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and storytelling. Through these programs, they aim to cultivate a generation of young women ready to face the challenges and opportunities of the future.
One notable initiative spearheaded by Aditi Arora is a fundraiser aimed at supporting 900 menstruators in 10 cities, ensuring they can menstruate safely for two years. This initiative reflects a commitment to addressing the practical challenges that girls face daily, advocating for dignity and safety in a crucial aspect of women’s health.
Arora’s influence extends beyond Girl Up; she serves as an Inclusivity Advisory Board Member of Just A Girl Inc., a U.S.-based organization leveraging technology to empower women and promote mental health. This multifaceted approach underscores Arora’s belief in addressing the holistic well-being of girls and women.
Aditi Arora’s educational background is as diverse as her pursuits. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a master’s in International Relations, she brings a comprehensive understanding of global dynamics to her role.
In essence, Aditi Arora’s journey embodies a commitment to driving tangible change in the lives of adolescent girls. Through her leadership at Girl Up and active participation in initiatives like Just A Girl Inc., she is crafting a narrative where girls not only dream but also have the tools and support to turn those dreams into reality. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of advocacy and the enduring impact it can have on shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
