Our Story
It didn't take long during our first year at the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) for the 11 members of our Giving Circle to become close friends. We are all very social and spent many-a-night swapping stories and sharing dreams over dinner and a glass of wine (or maybe a little tequila). In addition to stories about school, men and careers, it didn't take long to realize we all shared a similar interest in the social sector and a particular interest in helping girls and women achieve their dreams.
Each of us had experience working with organizations from our respective countries, but wanted to find a more meaningful way to add value to these organizations and stay involved with them over the long-haul. Our group members' origins span eight countries including Turkey, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Nigeria, Botswana, England and the U.S. so we have first-hand developing country knowledge and hopefully some great opportunities toconnect with women in various parts of the world.
Olaolu, Robin and Yessica had heard of several other groups of women starting Giving Circles, and thought it might be a good fit. After researching the topic, we decided it was the perfect mechanism for our group. In a nutshell, we pick one organization each year dedicated to empowering women or girls, and we provide them with a personal financial donation as well as advisory services and (wo)man hours to execute projects. It is also an amazing opportunity for the 11 of us to stay close as we move beyond graduation!
11Empowered members:
Olaolu Aganga
Robyn Calder
Yessica Gonzalez
Jessica Semaan
Jacqui Goldman
Roysi Gureli
Melis Kahya
Karlygash Burkitbayeva
Kate Doerksen
Shely Aranov
Christina Bryant
Each of us had experience working with organizations from our respective countries, but wanted to find a more meaningful way to add value to these organizations and stay involved with them over the long-haul. Our group members' origins span eight countries including Turkey, Lebanon, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Nigeria, Botswana, England and the U.S. so we have first-hand developing country knowledge and hopefully some great opportunities toconnect with women in various parts of the world.
Olaolu, Robin and Yessica had heard of several other groups of women starting Giving Circles, and thought it might be a good fit. After researching the topic, we decided it was the perfect mechanism for our group. In a nutshell, we pick one organization each year dedicated to empowering women or girls, and we provide them with a personal financial donation as well as advisory services and (wo)man hours to execute projects. It is also an amazing opportunity for the 11 of us to stay close as we move beyond graduation!
11Empowered members:
Olaolu Aganga
Robyn Calder
Yessica Gonzalez
Jessica Semaan
Jacqui Goldman
Roysi Gureli
Melis Kahya
Karlygash Burkitbayeva
Kate Doerksen
Shely Aranov
Christina Bryant
