Girls are more vulnerable in my community - the treatment of girls is unequal to boys. Girls cannot participate in some activities, and there are many traditional beliefs that place more importance on boys than girls - and we are not as valued as our male peers.
Sometimes I feel discouraged, but I know I have the potential just like other girls here. I want the world to stand up and ensure there are specific services for girls in place.
It is very important that every girls’ rights are respected and understood - girls are humans too and we have rights. If our rights are respected, it will benefit girls and everyone else as well. When our ideas, potential and skills are enhanced and fully supported, we can help change the world for the better, improving every life around us.
I dream of seeing a great change in gender equality - in my community, my country, and in my life too. As one of Plan International’s youth advocates, as part of the Girl Declaration Project, I advocate for girls’ rights. When I’m older I would like to be a social worker and an advocate.
Pre-marital sex and early pregnancy is a big problem for young girls in my community, and girls are often forced to marry because they have fallen pregnant.
My friend fell pregnant when she was 17. She was forced to go and live with the father and she eventually dropped out school. Life is tough for her now, she’s just not old enough to be in this situation. I wish it won’t happen again to another girl, but it will.
Guest blog by Ghene, 14 years old, from the Philippines.
