GIRL BE HEARD INSTITUTE

Produces and presents an annual Mainstage theatrical performance created by and featuring youth members, centered on lived experiences and social justice themes such as environmental disaster, gun violence, sex trafficking, and civil rights. The 2024 production was titled "R.I.S.E.: The Pursuit of Utopia," set in a futuristic New York City, and has been presented off-Broadway and at high-profile venues including the White House, United Nations, and TED Talks.

Organizes and presents performances throughout the year for youth participants to showcase original work, reaching over 15,000 audience members annually. Performances address human rights and social justice issues and are held in high-visibility venues such as off-Broadway theaters, the Women’s March, CBS This Morning, and the US State Department.

Engages in organizational capacity building by working with staff and board to expand the organization’s reach, skills, financial capability, and resources, with a focus on maintaining diversity and strengthening institutional effectiveness.

Delivers after-school and weekend arts education programs in underserved areas of New York City, particularly in Title-1 schools and community-based organizations, engaging over 700 youth annually. Programming uses theater and storytelling to explore social justice issues and build social-emotional learning competencies, with over 90% of participants reporting improvements in self-identity, social capital, and self-efficacy.

Conducts international tours and cultural exchange initiatives, presenting youth-created performances at global venues including the United Nations, TED conferences, and events in Trinidad, Geneva, Sarajevo, Bermuda, Taiwan, and the UK. Also operates an ongoing program in Trinidad and Tobago serving local and migrant communities, expanding the organization’s reach beyond New York City.

Offers free year-round programming for girls, young women, and gender-expansive youth aged 15–21 through structured tracks including a pre-professional Artistic Company residency, after-school programs, and weekend workshops. Programs focus on developing leadership, activism, and artistic skills via spoken word, theater-making, storytelling, and performance, with paid public performance opportunities, mentorship, and professional development. Over 90% of participating seniors graduate high school and enroll in college.