AHA, BSM, Breck, Woodbury, and Blake schools recently joined together to host the first annual Girl Up Gala. The night consisted of socializing, sharing stories, fundraising, and connecting and supporting other women. Set at Urban Daisy Event Space, it hosted three speakers, held a multitude of vendors, and fundraised for three charities: People Serving People, Ann Bancroft Foundation, and Girl Up.
The night was created in conjunction with the leaders of the AHA, BSM, and Edina Girl-Up Clubs. Sienna Dhariwal, Lauren Carlson, Harper Stevenson-Shimek, Michelle-Dallow Elliot, and Olivia Pearson were the five co-chairs of the event. Eight months of work was put in by these women and more. The Gala consisted of over 50 volunteers, half of which were AHA students.
The night began with a social hour where guests were invited to shop at one of the many vendors the gala had, like Bikini Blend, NaturallyNatureCo, Era of Moments Jewelry, and more. There was also a silent auction of many items that the guests could bid on while they chatted, and a photo opportunity with Mrs. Minnesota International, Brandi DeVries. Then came dinner, and as the guests ate, speakers Rachel Evangelista (Miss Minnesota), Ethline Kaba, and Brenda Miller spoke about their stories, their work, and their charities. The Gala concluded with a call for donations, and overall, the night raised over $15,000 for the three charities.
AHA Girl Up leader and Girl Up Gala Co-Chair, Sienna Dhariwal said that the event “was really fulfilling to watch.” AHA Girl Up club has been a positive community and influence for AHA’s women since it began, and the Gala only helped to increase the already strong membership. Dhariwal stated the importance of both Holy Angel’s teachers, Malia Lahr and Elizabeth Moravec, being there to support her. Dhariwal said, “Right as they walked in, my smile widened as a large portion of my passion for female empowerment has stemmed from their influence and education.” Leaders of the AHA Girl Up club, Andrea Elsen and Samantha Goedde, stated that they have been able to use their leadership position in Girl Up to empower and support their fellow women, by sharing their experiences and relating to others. AHA Girl Up club has helped to create strong bonds and relationships between the women of AHA, and the Gala was truly a joyful celebration of charity and female empowerment.
