When Paulina Herrera Prado joined Girls Inc. three years ago, she was at a crossroads.

“I always thought I’d go into the mental health field, but it didn’t feel like my cup of tea. GIMD came at the perfect time—it was a blessing in disguise,” she says.

What started as a leap of faith quickly became a calling: supporting girls in finding their voices while discovering and strengthening her own.

Over the years, Paulina has served as a high school educator, middle school educator, and STEM facilitator. Today, she co-leads school partnerships, building curriculum and programs like Girl Groups and Bold Bodies.

“This role gives me creative freedom to experiment and innovate,” she explains. “It’s taught me a lot about myself and how to embrace who I am.”

True to her zodiac vibes of being a Taurus – which she proudly owns – Paulina approaches her work with patience, persistence, and a deep sense of purpose. “I know what I like, I know what I don’t, and I’ve learned when to let go of stubbornness and accept help.”

Her steadiness makes her an anchor in classrooms, modeling transparency, vulnerability, and confidence. She believes in leading by example so girls can see themselves reflected in her.

For Paulina, the Girls Inc. mission is more than a tagline—it’s a way of life.

“We’re all strong, smart, and bold in our own ways—it’s a journey of self-exploration. I’ve learned to speak up, honor my needs, and know when to rest. That’s what I want to model for girls too.”

Some of her favorite memories come from teaching middle school, where she built connections that reminded her of mentoring her little sister. Those moments pushed her to set clearer expectations and boundaries, while deepening her joy for the work. She’s especially proud of Bold Bodies, a program that normalizes conversations about health and development.

“There’s power in normalizing what girls are going through by helping them take charge of their own health, emotions, and confidence.”

Outside the office, Paulina blends work and rest with intentionality by constantly looking out for the perfect matcha latte, hitting the gym, shopping, and enjoying time with her family and dog. Hot pot, pho, and ramen are her comfort foods, and she carves out solo time to recharge.

And, if she could share a meal with anyone, it would be the Cheetah Girls, whose confidence, creativity, and unapologetic empowerment shaped her childhood.

Her advice for anyone hoping to make a difference?

“Do it. Don’t let other people’s opinions measure the value of your impact. Lead by example, rest when you need to, and trust the process.”

Looking ahead, she’s excited to expand GIMD’s reach into new schools and communities through pop-ups, conferences, and partnerships. Her big dream? Seeing Girls Inc. hubs across cities, creating networks of strong, smart, and bold girls everywhere.

If you’re a school leader or educator, here’s your chance to bring intentional impact into your classrooms. Partner with Girls Inc. of Metro Denver and join us in empowering the next generation of girls. Learn more about becoming a school partner here.