Girls Inc. is an organization that inspires girls to be strong, smart, and bold, and they’re preparing the next generation of women professionals to succeed. Yotpo has raised more than $150,000 for Girls Inc. to date from nominations to our Amazing Women in eCommerce program, and we’re hoping to raise even more this year.
We’ve worked with Girls Inc. for several years now because we truly believe in their mission. And we want to inspire others to share in our passion for the organization. So we asked Monali Baker, Girls Inc. brand ambassador, to share how Girls Inc. impacted her life. Here’s what she had to say.
What have you discovered about yourself through Girls Inc.?
I’ve discovered so much about myself. Before entering Girls Inc., I was really shy and quiet and I never really liked to talk to people, but I’ve learned that I’m actually pretty good at public speaking, despite my fears. I’ve learned that no matter what I do, as long as I put hard work behind it, I know I can achieve my goals and my dreams. I’ve learned a lot about STEM and different STEM careers. There are so many careers out there that I didn’t even know existed until I joined Girls Inc.
What have you learned from your Girls Inc. mentor?
I’ve learned a lot from my mentor. She’s always there to just help me out. And even if it’s just like, “Hey, look, I’m really not feeling great today. It’s a down day for me. And I just need that little bit of extra motivation or extra spark,” she’s like, “Here are some motivational quotes. You got this, I know you can do it. You know, you can do it and just keep going.” She’s helping me with college essays right now because I don’t know what colleges are looking for. She’s helped me refine how I speak and my talking skills. She’s helped me with more things than I can even remember at this point. And it’s a really close relationship. She’s like a sister to me as well.
Where do you want to be in five years?
I am graduating high school this year, so in five years I’ll probably still be in college. I want to get my Master’s in mechanical engineering and then my MBA. And then I want to start my own company that manufactures and develops toys, tools, and technology for special needs people to use. I’ve even kind of started that — I’ve tried to code a new joystick to allow those with uncontrollable movements to use so they can do things like robotics or video games.
Why do you think Girls Inc. is so important for girls like you?
I mean, I used to be a really shy girl. I never would have taken up this type of opportunity before, and I’ve just blossomed so much. And I want other girls to see that no matter what they do or no matter what they want to do, your dream is never big enough. And organizations such as Girls Inc. really helped me foster my inspiration, my creativity, and my imagination. I never would have thought five years ago when I started that I would be here now, but I am. And it’s an amazing thing for me.
Do you know an amazing woman in eCommerce? Nominations are open for 2024 honorees, and Yotpo will donate $5 to Girls Inc. for every nomination. And if you’re a woman working in the eCommerce industry, join our AWIE Slack community!
