Education for Equality: Girls as Future Changemakers
As a member of the Miriam College community, I am grateful that the institution paved the way for my advocacy for gender equality and women’s empowerment to flourish. I am grateful that in the High School Unit, we have supportive administrators and colleagues whom I consider allies in my advocacy. Through our shared vision, we continuously work together to improve our policies and programs so that our girls will feel safe and supported with their needs, for they are the center of what we do.
As a high school teacher and an active member of the Gender Mainstreaming Committee (GMCOM), I believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives, especially the lives of young women. Women empowerment in the school community is not simply a program or an event; it is a daily commitment to building confidence, breaking barriers, and creating equal opportunities for every learner.
In the classroom, I intentionally cultivate a safe and inclusive environment where girls are encouraged to speak up, lead, and excel. They are encouraged to pursue their goals in whatever field they are interested in. They are also guided as they make important decisions and accept leadership roles. With consistent affirmation of their abilities and celebration of their achievements, my mission is to help them recognize their own potential. When girls see that their voices matter, they begin to envision themselves as future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Through the GMCOM initiatives, we organize seminars, workshops, and open forums that address gender stereotypes, discrimination, and respectful relationships for students, the MC community, and our partner communities. These activities encourage the participants to question harmful norms and embrace equality as a shared value.
Today, I reaffirm my commitment as a teacher, mentor, and advocate to continue creating opportunities for our young women to thrive. I call upon all of us to actively support this mission. Let us challenge stereotypes, open doors and raise our voices. Let us create a school where every girl knows her worth and every student understands the power of equality.
Because when we empower girls, we transform the world.
Ms. Mary Ann Lascano
Grade 9 Level Coordinator, Miriam College High School
