Last year Lily Mai got in touch with us to let us know she was fundraising for our charity. Like us, and as a young woman, she is passionate about supporting girls to have the unlimited future they choose. This year, she takes it a step (in fact, many steps) further, by taking on a new challenge and raise more money for girls across England.

This is her inspiring story.

I’m Lily Mai and I am 13 years old. I started to raise money in December 2020 for The Girls' Network by running 1 mile a day in 24 days. I ended up doing nearly 60 miles in 24 days and raising £535 in the process.

I was so overwhelmed by all my family and friends sponsoring me that I am looking to beat my record in December 2021; I am going to row 50 miles, and run 50 miles. This is going to be incredibly challenging for me, but I am very sporty and I like to push myself.

I chose The Girls' Network because I attend an all girls school, where I am very fortunate to have a support network around me. The teachers are amazing at giving me the right amount of guidance and support. Since starting in September 2020, my confidence has grown and I feel I have a bright future ahead of me.

I also have a loving and supportive family who always give the best advice and allow me to pursue my goals and dreams. They take me to various clubs, and always encourage me. My dream is to become a professional goal keeper and play for England Ladies, but if I can’t then I would love to work for the NHS as a doctor.

It is sad that some girls my age don’t have the same support, or role models in their life to allow them to follow their dreams, or even have dreams they want to follow. This is why I chose The Girls' Network as I absolutely love the concept of this charity.

I think having role models and mentors to engage with girls my age or older is exactly what is needed for empowerment, confidence and mental health. I am going to try my hardest to raise at least £465 so then I can say I have raised £1,000 in 13 months. This would be an amazing feeling, and I would feel completely honoured to have raised this much for The Girls' Network.

 - Lily Mai

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