Young Global Voices Celebrate German Girls’ Day in India Through “Female Forward” Program

Sixteen inspiring young girls from India, Germany, Austria, Nepal, and the Tibetan exile community came together in New Delhi from April 23 to 26, 2025, to participate in Female Forward—an international girls’ empowerment program organized by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) South Asia

to mark the occasion of German Girls’ Day.

The program offered a dynamic platform for these young participants to explore the strength and complexity of Indian democracy. Over four days, they engaged in interactive sessions, exchanged ideas, and experienced first-hand how democratic institutions function in the world’s largest democracy.

A highlight of the program was a visit to the Parliament of India, where the participants had the opportunity to meet and interact with several prominent Indian women politicians. These conversations served as a source of inspiration, showcasing powerful examples of female leadership in action.

Each participant brought a unique perspective shaped by their cultural and social backgrounds, making Female Forward not just a learning experience, but also a vibrant cross-cultural exchange. The initiative reinforced FNF South Asia’s commitment to amplifying young voices in civic life and promoting leadership rooted in equality, liberty, and inclusion.

“A central mission of Female Forward is to create an empowering space where girls are seen, heard, and valued,” said Nupur Hasija, Senior Program Manager at FNF South Asia. “This initiative not only challenges conventional gender roles, but also celebrates the leadership potential of every girl.”

The program also emphasized the importance of storytelling and shared experiences. Participants engaged in vibrant cross-cultural exchanges, discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by young women in different parts of the world. Whether from urban centers or remote communities, each voice added depth to the collective learning experience.