‘Why we support girls' education and quality education for all’ - One Girl Can founder

In a world where education is often seen as the cornerstone of empowerment and development, one individual is making a profound impact on the lives of thousands of girls in Kenya. Lotte Davis, the founder of One Girl Can, has dedicated her life's work to ensuring that girls in some of the most marginalized regions of Kenya receive not only access to education but also quality education that prepares them for a successful future. Davis's journey began over a decade ago when she made the conscious decision to use her entrepreneurial skills to give back to society in a meaningful way. Despite having a successful business background, Davis felt compelled to address the issue of gender inequality through education, particularly in Africa. She partnered with an organization called Amrath and ventured into the impoverished Cabera slums in Kenya. It was there that she laid the foundation for her life's mission. Over the years, Davis has overseen the construction of nine schools in Kenya. While building physical infrastructure was crucial, she soon realized that the key to impacting gender inequality lay in providing scholarships and mentoring to bright young girls who lacked access to quality education. Davis's program started with 11 high school scholarships in 2014, and today, it supports over 650 girls on scholarships, including university scholarships. The focus is not just on sending girls to school but on guiding them through their educational journey with workshops and mentorship programs that empower them to excel in their chosen fields. The impact of investing in girls' education goes beyond individual success. A study conducted in Kenya highlighted that girls who complete their education are less reliant on social services post-graduation, making them valuable contributors to the economy. Davis believes that supporting girls' education is not just a moral imperative but an economic one as well. Educating girls not only benefits them personally but also has far-reaching effects on society and the economy as a whole. In line with this, the girls sponsored and mentored by One Girl Can are encouraged to pursue careers in STEM subjects, business, law, and medicine. These fields are seen as avenues through which girls can achieve financial independence and be empowered to make decisions in their households and communities. Davis's vision is not only to provide education but to create a future generation of women who are capable of driving positive change in their society. By focusing on sectors where women are underrepresented, such as tech-driven industries, Davis is giving girls the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. As she continues to expand her reach and impact, Lotte Davis is setting an inspiring example of how one individual's dedication can transform the lives of many and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.