After reviewing nearly 2,000 applications from 12 to 18 year old girls from across Uttar Pradesh, the team was energized seeing the diversity of passions and commitment to social change expressed in the submissions. Girls wrote about their interests in using traditional dance, law and policy reform, education, or sports to create positive changes to their communities. The committee was impressed to hear from many girls coming from rural areas how they wanted to eliminate child marriage and improve health and sanitation in their towns. Applications were received from girls from rural and urban communities, and many shared their stories of rising above economic challenges, disabilities, or coming from a marginalized religion or caste to pursue their education.

As the group celebrated the conclusion of the first round of the selection process, we are thankful for their collaboration and support, and we are looking forward to moving onto the next rounds of the selection process.  The Girl Icons will be selected on a variety of parameters including, their involvement in the community, their creative ideas for social change, their academic dedication and grades, and their leadership qualities.

Stay tuned over the coming weeks as we continue to share the next rounds of the selection process, examine barriers to educating girls with partners, and announce the exceptional Girl Icon Fellowship award winners on October 18^th!

Starting at the end of September, Milaan will be rolling out a campaign to #CelebrateGirls and address the barriers to girls education utilizing social media. Please contact alyssa@milaan.in for further details or to engage and participate in this campaign.