Why Millions of Girls Are Out of School: How You Can Help Rewrite That Story
Imagine a world where every girl, no matter where she’s born, has access to education, freedom, and a future.
We’re not there yet... but we’re working on it.
Across the globe today, 119 million girls are out of school, including 34 million of primary school age, and 86 million of secondary school age according to UNICEF. That’s millions of futures dimmed before they had a chance to show the world their potential. In some countries, the simple act of learning is still a revolutionary act.
Where Are Girls Being Left Behind the Most?
- Sub-Saharan Africa is the region with the highest out-of-school rates, with 4 out of 10 girls missing out on a basic education.
- In Afghanistan, since 2021, girls have been systematically banned from attending secondary school and university. In a devastating rollback of rights, Afghan girls were banned from attending school beyond the 6th grade by the Taliban in 2021. Today, millions young women are forced into domestic confinement.
- In India, millions of girls drop out due to period poverty and gender expectations. In rural India, about 23 million girls drop out of school once they start menstruating, due to shame, lack of sanitary products, and no access to clean facilities.
Every dress from our collection helps us fund programs that get girls back in school. Shop now
What happens when a girl stays in school?
Child marriage drops
Girls with secondary education are 3x less likely to marry before 18 (World Bank).
Economic growth rises
Educated girls grow into educated women who earn more, spend more wisely, and reinvest into their communities.
She raises educated children
One educated woman can break generations of poverty, ignorance, and inequality.
Educating girls doesn’t just change their world it creates a better future for everyone. According to the Calgary Herald disease, malnutrition, conflict, and child marriage is a $10 trillion cost we pay when girls are denied a basic right to education.
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What We’re Doing at The Women Before Me
At The Women Before Me, we’re not just a label. We’re a movement of femininity, elegance, and impact. Our designs support programs that uplift women and girls globally, through:
- Donations to nonprofits fighting issues affecting women and girls.
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Art and healing programs for survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
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A portion of all profits donated to fund safe spaces, education access, advocacy, and more.
Every piece we create is made in limited, sustainable quantities, designed to honor women past, present, and future.
Be part of the change. Every design funds freedom. Shop The Women Before Me
Join The Change
The Women Before Me Community: A private space of supportive women sharing inter-generational wisdom. Join.
Art for Impact: A platform showcasing artwork by survivors, with proceeds supporting their healing journeys. Support.
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Related Reading
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What The Women Before Us Faced: A Brief Timeline
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The Oversexualization of Black Girls: A Critical Examination of its Impact on Sexual Abuse