The most important lesson I’ve learned in Girls Inc. is to be able to speak up for yourself no matter what.

Bold Voices is Girls Inc. of Greater Miami’s speech and debate program for girls in grades 6–8, offering a space where young people sharpen their confidence, leadership, and advocacy skills.

This program was born out of necessity. Today’s youth are craving spaces where they can share their thoughts, opinions, and perspectives—and be truly heard. Bold Voices was designed to meet that need. At Girls Inc. of Greater Miami, we ensure girls not only have a platform to express themselves, but also the tools to do so effectively, persuasively, and with purpose.

When Heannalay joined Girls Inc. of Greater Miami last year, she didn’t imagine how much one program would change the way she saw herself — and her voice. Through Bold Voices, our speech and debate program centered on leadership and advocacy, she’s learned that the power to create change starts with the courage to speak.

“The most important lesson I’ve learned in Girls Inc. is to be able to speak up for yourself no matter what,” Henalay says.

Each week, Bold Voices participants come together to explore issues that matter most to them and their communities — from education and equality to safety and belonging. Through guided discussions, practice debates, and collaborative workshops, girls are learning that their words have impact and their perspectives deserve space.

For Crystal, another long-time Girls Inc. participant,  Bold Voices is more than a program — it’s a community. She loves being surrounded by other girls who care deeply about the world around them and who challenge one another to think, listen, and lead with purpose.

“The most valuable part of being in Girls Inc. is connecting with other girls and sharing our experiences while being open, respectful, and confident.” Crystal says. 

That spirit is what makes Bold Voices so powerful. It’s where girls learn to use their voices for advocacy, to speak with conviction, and to lead with empathy. Each conversation builds confidence. Each debate builds leadership.

Programs like Bold Voices remind us that leadership isn’t about being the loudest — it’s about being brave enough to speak your truth. And when girls like Henalay and Crystal do, they’re not just finding their voices — they’re shaping the future of their communities.