Girls and women have played a central role through history—one that continues today and will be part of the future. Advancing the rights of women and girls worldwide is a priority for the United States. We are committed to supporting women by investing in their prospects, security, and wellbeing.
On the 10th anniversary of International Day of the Girl, we showcase the stories of two of our women leaders, Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Heather Variava, who have broken barriers and risen through the ranks with ability and bravery.
They shared their experiences about what it was like growing up, the advice they would give to their younger selves, and what current leaders need to do to make sure that girls and women across the world are given the resources and opportunities they need to live healthily and achieve their dreams.
What is one significant memory that you have as a child?
“I was fortunate to grow up in a household where both parents were teachers and took an active role in raising us four children. From an early age, I saw both parents cooking, cleaning, and taking care of the family while working full-time—without reference to gender, which, as I look back, was unusual at that time. This helped me see parenting as a partnership and know that I could have a career and still have a wonderful, fulfilling family experience.”
– Ambassador MaryKay Carlson
“One of my significant childhood memories is the time I was allowed to ride my bike to school by myself for the first time. I was a second grader at elementary school. I felt very grown up as I pedaled my red bike the one mile from my house to the school. I found out many years later that my mother followed me from a distance to make sure I was okay. I was very lucky to have parents who both empowered and protected me.”
– DCM Heather Variava
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?
“I would say, “Don’t be the first to tell yourself no.” I wish I had failed more! And by that, I mean, I think women and girls should take more risks and strive for greater heights. Don’t be afraid to fail or fall short because you learn a lot and gain important experience in the process of applying for positions, running for office, or just generally putting yourself out there—even when you don’t succeed at first try. Persistence is the key!”
– Ambassador Carlson
“I would tell my younger self to speak up more. As women and girls, especially when I was younger, it was expected that we should keep quiet and get our jobs done. I believe younger people should listen to and respect older people who have experience, but young people, especially women and girls, should also speak up and share their ideas and perspectives.”
– DCM Variava
Finally, if your younger self could have talked to someone in your position today, what would she tell them?
“My younger self would tell my adult self to do more to promote opportunities for women and girls. Even though we have made great strides over the past years, there is still much more we need to do!”
– Ambassador Carlson
“I don’t know if my younger self would have said this exactly, but I believe leaders today need to be brave and strong enough to make decisions that will help people in the long-term. I believe there is too much focus on the short-term or immediate problems. We need to find a way to pursue tough solutions that will make people’s lives (especially young people’s lives) better in the long run. Whether it is climate change, social and economic inequality, or fragile democracies, we need to do more to address these problems now.”
– DCM Variava
Elevating the status of girls and women globally will lead to a better, more secure, and more prosperous world for all. The world is at its best when the possibilities for girls and women are limitless.