What’s it like to be a GFS Trustee?

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Black and white circle cutout of a young fair-skinned woman with long straight blonde hair smiling in front of a brick wall. She is wearing black-rimmed glasses, a white spotted shirt and small hoop earrings.GFS is an amazing organisation that empowers girls to be proud of who they are.

A girl who believes in herself is a powerful catalyst for change, and GFS provides the support and structure needed to enable girls to thrive.

As a young Trustee on the board at GFS, and member of the Quality and Impact Committee, I can’t recommend joining this forward-thinking organisation enough.

One of my favourite things about GFS is that we are not afraid of change.

Although GFS was established in 1875, GFS still listens and adapts to the pressing needs of girls today and prioritises their input and leadership.

We adopt an inclusive approach at all levels within the organisation, dismantling traditional forms of power and privilege.

We do not shy away from addressing the complex forms of disadvantage our girls face, including racism, ableism, transphobia, ageism, and more. 

Our board and committees are ambitious, inspiring, diverse and fearless.

Personally having had a very challenging year with multiple bereavements in my family, GFS has been a constant for me. I have felt understood, supported, and valued beyond my capacity as a professional by my team.

The GFS board is the kind of community that everyone deserves during difficult times. 

Prior to joining the board, I was worried I would be used as the token young person, whose voice would be tolerated rather than celebrated. Even though I am the youngest trustee on the board at GFS, my contributions are equally valued and I am heard. 

While also being provided with support to develop my understanding of some ‘grey areas’ that I had yet to experience within my career. For me, this included understanding auditing! 

The GFS board are not looking for perfect individuals, but for people with open minds, passionate hearts, and those who feel the skills and experience they do have could further our mission to ensure every girl is proud of who they are.  

We encourage girls to act on issues that matter to them, build resilience to achieve their goals, create friendships with their peers, and importantly, love who they are.

If you want to be a part of history in the making, check out our board and committee vacancies! 

-Acushla Young, GFS Young Trustee

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