You might catch Alicia on the playground, chanting “G-I-R-L-S-I-N-C” to passersby along Colfax, eager to recruit the next generation of Girls Inc. girls. After four years with Girls Inc. of Metro Denver, Alicia has become one of the program’s biggest cheerleaders. A passionate singer, talented dancer, and welcoming friend, she brings an energy that is hard to miss. 

Alicia has been a familiar face at Girls Inc. since first grade. Over the years, staff members have watched her grow from being shy and reserved into the confident fifth grader she is today. Whether she’s singing, dancing, making friends, or sharing her ideas, Alicia has truly found a place where she feels comfortable being herself. 

“You can be whoever you want to be at Girls Inc.,” she says. 

And for Alicia, that means having the confidence to embrace every part of who she is. Since joining Girls Inc., she has learned that using her voice goes beyond singing her favorite songs – it’s also about standing up for what she believes in, sharing her perspective, and celebrating the things that make her unique. Her background and culture are important parts of her identity, and embracing them has helped her feel strong and bold. 

Throughout her years at Girls Inc., Alicia remembers the teachers who have encouraged her, the activities she’s enjoyed, and the friendships she’s made. But one lesson has remained constant: girls have the right – and the power – to speak up for themselves and advocate for what they need. Sometimes that means asking for a new playground, and other times, it means making a case for a chicken nugget ban. 

Learning about the women who came before her and used their voices to create change has also helped Alicia understand the importance of her voice. Their stories inspire her to keep learning, ask questions, and recognize the many ways she can make a difference. For Alicia, being smart means understanding the legacy of women before her who championed the rights that she has today. 

And while she already has plenty of reasons to use her voice, Alicia has even bigger plans for the future. She dreams of becoming a world-famous singer, following in the footsteps of musical icons like Michael Jackson. With her love of performing and the confidence she’s built at Girls Inc., she’s excited to use her voice to make a positive impact in the world around her. 

Whether she’s leading a chant on the playground, standing up for an idea, or performing for an audience, Alicia is learning that she doesn’t have to wait for the perfect moment to make herself heard. She already has everything she needs to start: her voice, her ideas, and the confidence to use them.