Starfish

Founded in 2007, Starfish catalyzes female momentum where it is most needed. Through a powerful combination of local leadership and rigorous innovation, Starfish is unlocking the power of the “Girl Effect” among some of Guatemala’s poorest families and communities. The program targets girls otherwise unable to continue their studies beyond the 6th grade and empowers each to become a “Girl Pioneer” who trail-blazes an unprecedented trajectory through and beyond secondary school. Our holistic program is based in mentorship and self-empowerment, and centers on a secondary school that fuses together socio-emotional competencies, innovative teaching methodologies and rigorous academics, indigenous identity preservation, and community development. Our graduate support network includes economic autonomy and leadership strategies such as a small business program and access to internships and university scholarships. In spite of coming from parents with an average of two years of schooling, 95% of Girl Pioneers are academically successful and complete high school. Starfish is educating and empowering the next generation of female leaders in Guatemala.