Founded in 2012 by former Afghan international soccer captain Khalida Popal, this dynamic organization has become an international driving force for the inclusion and empowerment of women in sport. Headquartered in Copenhagen, GIRLPOWER is creating new pathways for girls and women to participate in sports and education, especially those marginalized from society, giving participants a sense of empowerment, worth and belonging

GIRLPOWER recognises that some cultures deny opportunities to girls and women, who as a result find themselves distanced from mainstream connections and networks. To counter this, the organisation strives to address the lack of role models and a lack of awareness of the importance of sports and education among many refugees and minorities. GIRLPOWER promotes numerous activities that offer support for refugees and disadvantaged women including support networks, advocacy, leadership and training programs, and festivals, tournaments where ethnic minorities and local citizens can meet.

GIRLPOWER provides unique spaces for people from various backgrounds to build bridges and overcome differences in language and cultural norms. GIRLPOWER seeks to challenge outdated views on gender equality in sports by showcasing effective alternatives and promoting female role models and young leaders,

GIRLPOWER is currently active in Denmark, Germany, Turkey, Jordan, Greece, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The organisation is supported by companies including Hummel and NGOs including the Danish Red Cross, The professional soccer team FC Nordsjælland also help support GIRLPOWER’s mission. Further information is available here