After six years of building and nurturing Nerdy Girl Success, founder Christina Meade reflects on the reasons she set out with the bold mission to change the landscape of leadership by supporting and preparing young women to become the decision makers of today and tomorrow. This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #AccelerateAction for progress and women’s equality and she knows it requires a collective effort. We would like to share her thoughts with you as inspiration for the ways we can all show up for the next generation of leaders and help young women dream big.
Could you share your more on your “why” for Nerdy Girl Success?
I started Nerdy Girl Success because I saw a gap in the opportunities and resources available to young women as they prepared for their futures. I wanted them to not only learn about the variety of careers available to them but also to see the leadership opportunities within those fields. Most importantly, I wanted them to see themselves in the women who come to speak with them—women who share their backgrounds, experiences, and ambitions. Too often, leadership roles are dominated by men, not because women aren’t capable, but because they aren’t given the same access, mentorship, and encouragement. Nerdy Girl Success was created to change that. Our mission is to equip young women with the knowledge, confidence, and network they need to step into leadership roles, chart their own paths, and become bold decision-makers in their fields—knowing that leadership isn’t just an option for them, but a place where they belong.
This year’s IWD theme is #AccelerateAction. What do you commit to in order to make continued action towards progress for future generations?
We will accelerate action by continuing to create spaces where young women can see themselves in the leaders who come before them—women who share their experiences and prove that leadership is not just possible, but expected. Through mentorship, career exploration, and leadership development, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and ensuring that the next generation of women has the support and opportunities they deserve to lead and thrive.
Six years in, as you reflect, what are some highlights of what you and NGS have been able to accomplish in order to #AccelerateAction?
Six years into this journey, the most rewarding part has been hearing directly from the young women who have gone through our programs. Their stories, their growth, and their accomplishments are the true highlights of what we’ve achieved.
One of the most powerful things I’ve seen is how much more confident they feel—knowing that they belong in any space, that their voices matter, and that they can pursue any career or dream they choose. Many have shared how they’ve discovered new career paths they never knew existed, or that they now have the courage to go after their passions with determination. Seeing them step into leadership roles, land internships and jobs, and take bold steps toward their futures is nothing short of incredible.
In the midst of Women’s History Month, are there people or general progress that have come before you that you would like to recognize?
When I think about the women who have come before me and shaped who I am today, I immediately think of my mother, my grandmother, and a dear family friend, Inta. These women were my first and most powerful examples of strength, resilience, and unwavering confidence.
They taught me what it means to take up space—to stand firm in my beliefs, to speak up without hesitation, and to own my place in any room. They showed me that a woman’s voice is not something to be quieted but something to be heard, respected, and valued.
Their influence has been a guiding force in my life and in the work I do today with Nerdy Girl Success. Because of them, I am committed to helping the next generation of young women embrace their power, find their confidence, and step into leadership roles with courage.
I carry their lessons with me every day, and I am grateful for the path they’ve paved—not just for me, but for every woman who dares to dream, lead, and make an impact.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women leaders?
1. Own Your Confidence: You don’t need permission to take up space or to have a voice. You don’t have to prove your worth—you already have it. Whether in a boardroom, a classroom, or a leadership role, know that you belong there. Confidence grows with action—so step forward, speak up, and trust in your abilities.
2. Don’t Wait for the Perfect Moment: There will never be a “perfect” time to go after your goals. If you wait until you feel 100% ready, you’ll miss opportunities. Take action now—apply for that job, start that project, make that connection. Growth comes from movement, not waiting.
3. Build Your Network: Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who uplift and challenge you.
4. Use Your Voice: Your voice is a powerful tool for change. Whether advocating for your own worth—negotiating salary, seeking leadership roles—or lifting up others, never underestimate the impact of speaking up.
5. Embrace Failure as Fuel for Success: Every leader, every trailblazer has faced setbacks. Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey. Learn from it, grow from it, and use it to accelerate forward.