GirlUp, an initiative launched by the United Nations Foundation, aims to create a supportive, empowering space for students passionate about gender equity and social justice. Brandeis is one of over 200,000 schools worldwide that have a GirlUp club. “The purpose of our club is to give women a platform to speak up for the things they believe in and to advocate for justice,” explains GirlUp co-president Kaylin Ger ‘27. “We also dedicate a lot of energy toward creating a positive environment on campus.” Through events, fundraisers and open discussions, GirlUp has made it clear their mission is to foster change and community at Brandeis.
GirlUp’s mission goes beyond local advocacy, emphasizing support for those in underserved areas or under challenging circumstances. The other GirlUp co-president, Julia Minevich ‘26, shared that the club’s activities work to create “a safe space and community of young justice seekers who want to make a difference in the world.” She describes how this semester, GirlUp has hosted events that raise both funds and awareness, including the Candy Gram fundraiser, which raised funds for Hurricane Helene and Milton relief efforts. This fundraiser, which the team organized in the span of just two weeks, is a testament to the drive and dedication of GirlUp’s newly assembled executive board. “All the girls are so amazing,” Ger noted. “We quickly pulled together this event and it’s going really well.”
Another one of GirlUp’s recent projects includes a clothing drive, also aiming to support those affected by Hurricane Helene and Milton. Minevich explained, “I really love to shop, but I also have a lot of clothes that I’ve been wanting to take out of my closet lately so I figured the best thing I could do with these clothes was to donate them to people really in need.” She and a Rosie Community Advisor joined forces to ensure their efforts reached more people across the Brandeis community.
In addition to the events that have already taken place, GirlUp is planning a “PJs and movie night” and a potential book discussion on Lessons in Chemistry, highlighting the strength of uniting for discussions and advocacy in support of gender equality and female empowerment. “Our members can share their personal experiences, give advice and discuss problems that women and femme-presenting people face in their day-to-day life. We work hard to create a supportive, friendly and safe environment during our events,” Minevich states. “I hope that students will walk away with the knowledge of how their experiences differ from others, but that it doesn’t make their experiences any less valuable or validated. I also hope they walk away with a desire to help others where they can, and with a love for service.”
For students who want to get involved, GirlUp’s emphasis on inclusivity makes it accessible to every student at Brandeis University. “Women’s issues are everyone’s issues,” Ger asserts. She encourages anyone interested to join, irrespective of gender. Minevich echoes this sentiment, “Back when I was joining the club in freshman year of high school, my brother was a senior, involved with the club for four years, and would bring his male friends to events, too! It really does take just one man to also make the effort to join and support the fight for gender equality.” “More often than not, the scariest part is just showing up,” Ger adds, emphasizing the club’s warm, supportive environment.
For Ger and Minevich, leading GirlUp isn’t just about planning events. It’s about fostering a community of motivated, justice-seeking students. Reflecting on memorable moments, Ger recalls the energy and enthusiasm during the executive board’s first meeting this semester. “It was so great seeing everybody come in with such high energy, so many great ideas, and just positive attitudes all around,” she said. This energy drives the club’s initiatives, creating the infectious momentum that continues to build GirlUp’s presence on campus.
Looking ahead, Ger and Minevich are determined to grow the club’s visibility and impact on campus. After feeling that the club’s presence wasn’t as strong last year, they’ve focused on expanding outreach and encouraging broader involvement. With a newly formed and executive committed board and a lineup of upcoming events, the co-presidents are optimistic about the future of GirlUp. “This year, we’re set to make a bigger impact,” Ger says. Minevich adds, “We’d be happy to see even more friendly faces at our events this year.”
GirlUp’s commitment to justice and gender equity offers every Brandeis student the chance to engage in meaningful advocacy and service. Students interested in joining can follow @girlupbrandeis on Instagram, register on CampusGroups or visit them at the Involvement Fair each semester.
