our story

Why did we create the girls leadership network?

Our founder, Ritu Clementi, created similar programs with the Red Cross in the United States in North Carolina and Georgia. They were a great success and won several accolades, including the Martin Luther King Jr Diversity award from Nike.

After moving to Canberra, she realised there were few long-term programs targeting senior girls across Canberra, and received a Great Ydeas grant in May 2016 to start a program. She then started working with Asha, her daughter, who was also the target audience.  Asha and Ritu involved other key founding volunteers — Wendy Marman, for initial leadership content, Sian Rinaldi, , Ladan Amirazizi and Catherine McGufficke. In 2020, we have expanded to include a Sydney chapter lead by TGLN alum, Gabrielle Murphy.

The girls leadership network in the media

Shaping tomorrow’s female leaders, HerCanberra

Great Ydeas – Where are they now?, YWCA Canberra

The Girls Leadership Network, St Clare’s Tidings written by Helen Brumby, current participant

What is the Girls Leadership Network, RiotACT Canberra