About the Girls Empowerment Leadership Initiative (GELI)

Welcome to the Girls Empowerment Leadership Initiative – also known as GELI!

Here at the MCSW, our mission is to advance the rights of all women and girls. We’re committed to building the future of the Commonwealth – starting by investing in the young women of Massachusetts. GELI seeks to empower young women ages 14-22 across the Commonwealth to advocate for themselves and their communities by focusing on developing leadership and civic engagement skills through educational workshops, skill-building opportunities, and the opportunity to connect with peers across the state.

For more information, please email us at MCSWprograms@mass.gov.

GELI Summit 2025

Young women ages 14-22 are invited to join the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) alongside the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) for the 2025 Girls Empowerment Leadership Initiative (GELI) Summit!

This year GELI will provide opportunities for girls to engage in theme-based workshops focused on STEAM/STEM, leadership, civic engagement, wellness, and conflict resolution. The mission of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is to advance women and girls toward full equality in all areas of life.

Centering the MCSW GELI Summit around STEM/STEAM alongside WHOI and MBL presents a unique opportunity to empower girls in the fields of ocean science, biology, and engineering. Both organizations are committed to advancing scientific understanding of the ocean and its ecosystems, and by focusing on female participation, they can inspire the next generation of women leaders in these critical areas. This summit will provide girls with hands-on experiences and exposure to innovative research, fostering their confidence and interest in STEM careers. By collaborating in this initiative, WHOI and MBL can create an inclusive environment that not only promotes diversity but also equips young women with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle environmental challenges, ultimately shaping a more equitable future for all. 

We hope you join us at this year’s groundbreaking GELI Summit!

Participants should look forward to:  

• SWAG bags
• Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be served.
• Transportation is available. Additional details to follow after registration.
• Leadership, Advocacy, and STEM/STEAM FUN! 

Need additional Information?

Contact mcswfinance@mass.gov if you have additional questions or concerns.