Educating Girl Groups in South Sudan

“We came here to build skills, but we’re leaving with sisterhood for life”

Excited anticipation fills the room. Most of the young women gathered have never actually used a computer before. Now they look forward to three months of daily classes to learn and practice, not only on a computer, but with high-speed internet access. All twelve are high school graduates, having completed their course of study with the help of Girls With Books! (GWB!).

What a milestone, not only for Girls With Books!, but also for these young women. This year GWB! opened its Women Center in Juba, South Sudan, and in May, we launched our new Skills for Success Program, designed to equip young women—especially our dedicated high school alumni—with tools for long-term independence and self-sufficiency. The Women Center is now a vibrant hub where GWB! alumni come together to learn, grow, develop a lifelong friendship and build a brighter future.

What the new Women Center offers: 

• Students/Participants – now have access to computer training.
• Reliable, High-Speed Internet – ensuring seamless access to online learning, job resources and scholarship searches.
• Goal-Oriented Mentorship – guiding each student through resume writing, interview preparation, career development and more.
• College Readiness Tools – including support in applying for scholarships and navigating higher education opportunities.

Beyond learning, something even more beautiful is taking place: friendships are blossoming.  As one students shared, “We came here to build skills, but we’re leaving with sisterhood for life."

All of this program happens in a welcoming, safe, and encouraging environment where girls can uplift and support each other through shared learning, laughter, and growth.

If you like what’s happening in Juba, please help us keep it going! You can make a donation, right now, through GlobalGiving. Young women are eager to learn, to become leaders in their community and to build a better future. You can help them do that!

Thank you for your help. Together we’re making a difference!

Report submitted by Micklina Kenyi, Executive Director, GWB!