SHINE YOUR LIGHT - GGU LEADERSHIP ACADEMY 2025 AT BBIS

The Girls Gearing Up Leadership Academy (GGU) returned to BBIS for the fifth year, bringing together 42 young women from 15 countries under the theme 'Shine Your Light'. 

The organisers of the GGU Leadership Academy believe that every girl carries a light within her - one that can brighten even the darkest spaces. In a time of global uncertainty, the programme encouraged participants to develop their inner light, to shine for themselves and for those around them. By fostering empathy, celebrating diversity, and building essential leadership skills, GGU aims to support young women in becoming guiding lights in their communities.

Over the course of the week, participants took part in a varied programme that included:

• Visits to Google and RTL, exploring different career paths and gaining insight into the media and technology sectors.
• A session at Microsoft focused on the uses and potential of AI.
• A theatre workshop led by BBIS boarding mentor Paule Aboite, exploring storytelling through voice and movement.
• A mega mentoring afternoon with 40 professional women, featuring 1:1 conversations and group reflections.
• The annual Cultural Exchange Night, where each participant presented and celebrated an aspect of her culture.

Once again, the BBIS Foundation, in collaboration with the Andreas Gerl Stiftung, supported the GGU Leadership Academy with a donation of 25,000 EUR.

The Girls Gearing Up International Leadership Academy is an empowerment programme for girls aged 13 to 17. Its annual summer academy, alongside year-round events, provides young women from around the world with invaluable leadership skills and opportunities for cross-cultural connection.