This summer, we officially launched our brand-new STEM program for 6th and 7th grade girls called Ignite!, designed right here in the Capital Region. The program gives girls the chance to explore careers through real-world experiences and hands-on learning.

One of the first participants in our Day in the Life summer camp was Philly Marie B., a 10-year-old Girls Inc. girl who’s been with us for five years! Here’s what she had to say about her action-packed week:

What Activities Stood Out the Most?

“Boxing,” Philly said without ANY hesitation. “We worked out for two whole hours.” She also loved visiting

oKay Let’s Talk Real Estate and learning from Kadijah Johnson. “We played Kahoot and talked about mortgages. It was all really interesting!”

A Few Lessons That Stuck

“I learned a lot of different things. Like if there’s a tornado, you should take cover in the basement. We talked about mortgages with Kadijah, made budgets with Miss Alysha, and visited Sunmark. I also tried dried mango and dried strawberries for the first time ever at Honest Weight Food Co-op.”

Throughout the week, the girls also visited the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, GlobalFoundries, and UAlbany’s Atmospheric Science department. They made color-changing lemonade, designed dream homes, and even created TikToks to capture what they learned.

Who Left a Lasting Impact

Philly pointed out two women who made a big impression on her: Kadijah from oKay Let’s Talk Real Estate and Christine, a workforce development lead at GlobalFoundries. “At first, the projects Christine gave us seemed really hard, but she challenged us to do them, and afterwards, it made me think I could do other hard jobs too.”

What’s on the horizon for philly?

Philly wants to be a homecare nurse, just like her grandmother. She already plans on going to college when she’s older and wants to help people in her community.

philly, What’s Your Advice for Girls Considering Ignite! or Girls Inc. In General?         

“Don’t be scared or shy. The teachers are really nice and respectful. You’ll make friends, and the activities are fun. Just be yourself, even if you’re goofy!”

As Ignite! Director Alysha Branch said, “She’s an energy starter! When Philly walks into a room, everyone is energized.”

Ignite! is made possible thanks to a $300,000 gift from the Carl E. Touhey Foundation. Click here to read more.