About

I am a high school freshman and co-chair of the United Nations Foundation “Girl Up” campaign, which mobilizes the passion of American girls to raise funds and awareness for at-risk adolescent girls in developing countries. I chose these projects because I believe all girls should have the opportunity to have an education and reach their potential regardless of where they’re born.

Q and A

Catapult: Tell us about the most inspiring girl or woman in your life.

Annie: My hero is my older sister Jessica. She has been a teacher for five years at an elementary school in a very low income neighborhood in Newark.

She works hard to help increase literacy, close the achievement gap, and help more kids go to college. I am constantly inspired by the work she does to make a better life for those less fortunate. She is my hero because she has found her passion and has devoted all of her time and efforts towards the goal of improving education for many young children.

Catapult: Why do you think change is possible for girls and women?

Annie: I believe change is possible for girls and women because of recent events, such as the tragic shooting of Malala, are shining a light on issues faced by girls globally which are of critical importance. The new film, "Girl Rising," and the critically acclaimed book and film, "Half The Sky," are helping to bring attention to these issues as well. My generation has the benefit of the advances of technology, particularly social media, to help us learn more about other cultures and expose us to issues that oppress women. Technology has also helped us come up with solutions to address these issues.

Catapult: What can each of us do to be an active part of this change?

Annie: We can all be an active part of this change by continuing to raise awareness in our community about issues faced by girls and women globally. We can also be part of the change by helping raise funds for programs which are devoted to assisting girls and women who do not have access to many of the resources, which many of us take for granted. Another way in which we can be part of the change is by setting an example in our own communities of how girls and women should be treated.

Catapult: Name three things that would be different if women ruled the world.

Annie: If women ruled the world, it would be easier to solve many of the problems that exist because there would be a more diverse perspective on issues. In addition, women would put issues such as poverty and discrimination to the fore front. They would ensure that issues that effected women and children were addressed so that everyone in our communities could prosper. Lastly, having women leaders in government would give young girls role models so they could aspire to be their own generation's leader.

Catapult: Why do you care about gender equality?

Annie: I am passionate about gender equality because every girl, regardless of where they live, should have the opportunity to attend school and be educated so they can reach their potential and achieve their dreams. When girls succeed, their families and communities are able to prosper which then helps the economy. It's a win/win situation for everyone. I believe that American girls are part of the solution. We have the opportunity to raise awareness among our peers and gather support in our community.