Congrats to our 2024 Girl of Achievement, Layan Manasrah

At our 2024 Power of the Purse event, we honored our first Girl of Achievement, Layan Manasrah, for her contributions to the greater Fond du Lac community.

Layan shared the following reflections with us:

I am deeply honored to have been nominated and chosen as the inaugural Girl of Achievement by the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund. I extend my heartfelt gratitude for providing me with the platform to share my journey.

When I received the news of being selected as the first Girl of Achievement, I was overwhelmed with disbelief. It was a profound moment to realize that others saw me as worthy of such recognition. From the day I decided to wear the hijab in seventh grade, I embarked on a path filled with uncertainties, especially in a community where there were few Muslims. However, the unwavering support I received instilled in me a sense of empowerment like never before. Despite encountering challenges, including moments of feeling out of place, I’ve emerged stronger, embracing my identity and striving to inspire young Muslim girls.

Throughout my endeavors, I’ve come to understand that as women, we often hesitate to seize opportunities, in fear of failure. Yet, I’ve learned that each opportunity is a stepping stone, shaping us for what lies ahead. As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my journey at Northwestern University, I am filled with a myriad of emotions. While excitement for the future is present, moments of self-doubt inevitably creep in. However, I refuse to let these doubts overshadow my accomplishments or dictate my path.

My life philosophy centers on the belief that everything happens for a reason. My admission to my dream college was not a stroke of luck but a testament to my capabilities and worth. Though self-criticism may be inevitable, it’s imperative to keep a positive mindset – recognizing our ability to achieve greatness and defy societal norms.

In the collective journey of self-discovery and empowerment, every individual possesses the potential to effect meaningful change. We must embrace this truth, reaffirming our worthiness to pursue our dreams and overcome perceived limitations.