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. In 2025, we have expanded to include new session co-ordinators for our Canberra chapter with Alison McCarthy & Rachel O’Connor joining the team.

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