Every year, hundreds of grade 9 & 10 students from across

Niagara come together for YWCA Niagara Region's

Power of Being a Girl Conference.

Through our work in schools, we hear directly from students about the challenges they're facing. We also hear about their hopes, their goals, and the futures they're dreaming about for themselves. That's why every Power of Being a Girl Conference is built around themes that reflect what young people are experiencing right now, while giving them practical tools, encouragement, and support to move forward with confidence.

Throughout the day, participants hear from inspiring speakers, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with peers from across the region. They leave with new perspectives, new skills, and often a renewed belief in themselves. One of the most inspiring parts of the conference is hearing the dreams young people have for their future. Every year, students share goals that are bold, ambitious, and full of possibility. Just as important are the students who arrive unsure of what they want to do, who are struggling with confidence, or who have never been encouraged to think about their future in that way.

Power of Being a Girl creates space for both. Some participants leave with a clearer vision for where they're headed. Others leave simply believing in themselves a little more than they did when they walked through the door. No matter where they are in their journey, every participant deserves the opportunity to see their potential, build their confidence, and know that their voice matters. Power of Being a Girl isn't just about one day. It's about helping young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, strengthen healthy relationships, and believe they belong in the future they're working toward.

It's a day of inspiration, connection, and learning, but more importantly, it's a chance for young people to see what is possible.

Help Create the Experience

Your support helps make Power of Being a Girl possible for students across Niagara. Together, we're creating opportunities for young people to connect, grow, and discover the power they already carry within themselves.

For some, hearing stories from an adult with lived experience is more valuable to them than anything else. Your words have the power to help our youth recognize their power. Share your stories, and help inspire our youth.

  • "Hearing other girls share similar struggles made me realize I'm not alone"

    — Past participant

  • "Today showed me that there isn't just one path to success. There are so many options, and I can create my own."

    — Past participant

  • "I learned that healthy relationships should build you up and help you grow into the person you want to  be."

    — Past participant

  • "The conference helped me think differently about my future. I left with new goals and more confidence to pursue them."

    —Past participant

  • "I learned that I shouldn't give up on myself. Things won't always be easy, but that doesn't mean I should stop believing in what I'm capable of."

    —Past participant