Girls' dreams deserve more than a fairy tale
Many stories tell of a poor girl whose life changes when a rich man chooses her. These stories can be charming. But in real life, a girl's future should not depend on being chosen. This article looks at what truly opens doors for girls.
When stories shape hopes
Films and tales shape what children believe is possible. If a girl sees marriage as her only way out of hardship, she may accept it too young.
Families may also come to see an early marriage as a lucky escape.
What really changes a life
- An education that lets a girl read, count and learn a trade.
- Skills that help her to earn her own income.
- The confidence to make her own choices.
- A family and a community that believe in her.
Telling new stories
We can tell different stories: of girls who finish school, start small businesses, care for others as nurses and teachers, and lead their communities.
These stories show girls that they can be the heroes of their own lives.
Every girl deserves a future she builds herself, at her own pace and by her own choice.