Education has the power to transform lives, and for Payton McGriff, founder of Style Her Empowered (SHE), this statement couldn't be more true. McGriff's journey began during her sophomore year at the University of Idaho when she read Half the Sky, a book that shed light on the oppression of women in developing countries.
Shocked by the statistic that 129 million girls worldwide are not enrolled in school, McGriff was inspired to take action. She discovered that something as simple as a school uniform could be a significant barrier to education for many girls in impoverished communities.
Realizing the impact of providing free uniforms, McGriff founded SHE, a nonprofit that aims to empower girls in Togo, Africa, by removing financial barriers to education. The organization provides not only uniforms but also school fees, supplies, tutoring, and more to 1,500 girls annually.
One of SHE's innovative solutions is the creation of adjustable uniforms that can grow with the students, ensuring they can be used for up to three years and then passed down to others. Additionally, the organization recycles fabric scraps into reusable menstrual pads, addressing another critical need for girls in the program.
Through SHE's efforts, girls in Togo have seen a significant improvement in their academic performance, with higher exam pass rates than the national average. The organization also offers programs like mobile learning labs and Girls Clubs to further support the girls in their educational journey.
Recognizing the importance of local leadership, McGriff has empowered women in Togo to take the lead in running the organization. Her ultimate goal is for SHE to become self-sustaining, driven by the women who understand the challenges and solutions best.
One of SHE's success stories is Elolo, the first girl enrolled in the program who now serves as the Assistant Director. Elolo's journey from struggling with chores to attending school to becoming a leader in the organization is a testament to the transformative power of education.
McGriff's vision for SHE extends beyond Togo, as she hopes to replicate the organization's impact worldwide. Despite the physical distance, she feels a deep connection to the women she works with, bonded by their shared mission of empowering girls through education.
Style Her Empowered is not just a nonprofit; it's a movement that embodies the spirit of girl power and the belief that education can unlock endless possibilities for girls around the world.
