Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Egypt empowers young girls through “She” initiative for protection and growth
In a country where young girls’ voices are rising ever more confidently, Egypt has taken a heartfelt, determined step to ensure its next generation of women are not only heard but fully supported.
This week, Dr. Sahar El Sonbaty, the President of Egypt’s National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, joined hands with the Ministry of Youth and Sports to launch “She”—a nationwide initiative for the protection and development of girls.
At the heart of this movement is a simple, compassionate belief: supporting girls as they pass through the pivotal stage of puberty is not a luxury, but a fundamental right.
Breaking silence, building trust
“Every girl deserves to feel safe, informed, and empowered,” Dr. El Sonbaty told attendees at the launch in Cairo. “Puberty is a crucial time—a crossroads that shapes a girl’s health, confidence, and sense of self for years to come.” She spoke alongside Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, and Marwa Abdel Moneim, the actress and ambassador bringing her star power to support girls’ causes.
The “She” initiative unfolds in youth centers across the country. It offers workshops, open discussions, and creative activities—all under the safe roof of “Girls’ and Women’s Clubs” that have been growing in number in Egypt’s governorates. The aim? To open doors to knowledge on puberty, personal hygiene, mental health, self-confidence, and healthy relationships—without fear, stigma, or misinformation.
Empowering education, accessible support
Recognizing how isolating and overwhelming puberty can seem, the Council’s work goes beyond the classroom: teams visit communities, hold family awareness sessions, and create easy-to-understand handbooks for girls, parents, and teachers. Their child helpline (16000) offers confidential, compassionate answers to girls’ questions or concerns, while new digital platforms make trusted information accessible with just a click.
International partners, from UNICEF to UNFPA, bring vital expertise in child and adolescent health and fund dynamic campaigns that reach girls even in rural or underserved areas.
Dr. El Sonbaty is passionate: “We must never let shame or silence stand between our girls and their right to the truth. When communities, families, and schools unite, we create a safe space for every girl to embrace her changing self—with pride, not fear.”
Voices of confidence and hope
At the launch, girls were encouraged to express their questions, anxieties, and dreams. The message throughout was gentle and strong: “Your body is your own. Growing up is natural and beautiful. You are not alone—we are here to listen, guide, and support you.”
Concluding the event, Dr. El Sonbaty addressed every young girl:
“You are strong. What you’re experiencing is natural and beautiful. Understand and respect your body—it belongs to you. We are here for you, always.”
The “She” initiative may be uniquely Egyptian in its design, but its core values resonate around the world: trust, tenderness, and the unshakeable belief that when young girls are empowered, entire communities thrive.