GLOW Academy’s Annual International Day of the Girl Event

Each year, the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW) proudly celebrates International Day of the Girl, an important observance that highlights the achievements, potential, and issues of girls worldwide. This event not only draws attention to the unique challenges girls face but also reinforces the values that make GLOW Academy a truly supportive and inspiring place for young women to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

This year, students celebrated with grade-level murals and a Gallery Walk on Wednesday, October 8th. The murals were designed by each Leadership Advisory class to illustrate a related theme. This creative exercise allowed students to explore meaningful topics affecting girls, while developing teamwork, leadership, and even artistic skills. Advisory classes were encouraged to interpret their themes in any way that sparked creativity, conversation, and reflection.

Grade-Level Themes:

• 6th Grade: Importance of Education
• 7th Grade: Changemaker Girls
• 8th Grade: Issues Facing Girls in the US
• 9th Grade: Issues Facing Girls Globally
• 10th Grade: Breaking Stereotypes
• 11th Grade: Creating Sisterhood
• 12th Grade: How Do We Inspire?
  

During the Gallery Walk, Student Ambassadors worked in pairs to “host” each grade-level mural, facilitating discussions with advisory groups as they moved through the hallways. These ambassadors guided their peers, prompting thoughtful reflection on the themes, sharing insights, and helping students engage in meaningful dialogue. Their leadership provided an additional layer of learning, giving high school students a chance to practice mentorship and advocacy while fostering collaboration across grade levels.

The murals offer students a platform to engage with important social topics and develop critical thinking skills. From exploring the value of education to examining challenges facing girls locally and globally, each reflects the diverse perspectives and voices of GLOW students. Younger students focus on foundational concepts like changemaking and advocacy, while older students emphasize leadership, empowerment, and inspiring action.

GLOW Academy’s celebration of International Day of the Girl highlights the school’s dedication to developing confident and capable leaders. By blending creative expression with dialogue and mentorship, the event emphasizes the value of collaboration, communication, and civic engagement. Students leave the experience not only proud of their own work but also inspired by the perspectives and creativity of their peers.

Through this annual tradition, GLOW continues to foster a culture of connection, curiosity, and compassion. The International Day of the Girl murals provide an intentional opportunity for students to reflect, share, and take action—reminding them that their voices matter and that they have the power to create positive change within their school, their community, and beyond.