We have a dream.
She has a plan.

Education gives girls freedom and choices in life, but did you know it can also act as a powerful protective force against the harmful practice of child marriage? In communities where child marriage occurs, we’re working with girls to make sure they know their rights and have choices through education. We’re also raising awareness on the risks of child marriage, and supporting families and communities to make sure girls are valued and their voices are heard.

We asked five of our inspiring Plan International Australia youth activists to share their stories and why they believe educating girls has the power to change the world.

Every girl deserves the right to choose who, when – and if – she wants to marry.

But around the globe, child marriage denies girls the freedom to make their own decisions, be in charge of their bodies, and to have choices and opportunities for their futures.

Child marriage is a formal or informal union between a child under the age of 18 and an adult or another child. While early and child marriage affects both girls and boys, the impact on girls is much greater.