Today will be my last day working for Girls Action Foundation. It will have been two years – first as a volunteer, then as an intern, then a volunteer again and finally a full-time employee. It was an ongoing joke at the office – after many so-called attempts to “leave” Girls Action I would always end up coming running back into open arms. And believe me I was not the only one who fell prey to this pattern – either as a volunteer, to fill another position or just to hang out and chat about life – this place is a feminist drug that you can’t get enough of. Here’s why:

The first day I walked into Girls Action I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I have never felt such genuine warmth and love in a work place – and I have had some pretty awesome jobs. Most people never imagine that their place of work could also be a place of acceptance, safety, support, growth, and lots and lots and lots of laughter. I found my people – you know the ones I’m talking about – the ones who take you as you are, the ones who never ask for an explanation, the ones you leave feeling exhilarated, empowered and inspired by every single day – the all-around special ones.

I would often say to my friends and family that I wasn’t really going to work, but instead going to be with my feminist support system – my “hectic happy place.” And that is why when my life shifted drastically only a week before I left I didn’t think twice about staying home. Girls Action was where I needed to be. And I was welcomed with lots of hugs, tears and support – just another day in the pink loft.

We keep on coming back because it’s true what they say – Girls Action is a family. Of course all families are not perfect (we also say that too) but they are always there for each other when things get tough.  And they respect each other because of their intersections, rather than in spite of them.

Without even realizing it being a part of such a dynamic team and doing work that I genuinely cared about was the most empowering experience. I came into work every day motivated, excited and inspired. It was therapy for my soul. It allowed me to see myself in powerful roles, to truly feel like I was good enough and to love myself more than anyone. Hold on – isn’t it our job to nurture the leadership of girls… Well it worked.

Although today I feel as though I am truly leaving this time, it never really feels like goodbye.  As my path shifts and I explore new roads, I promise to take these values with me wherever I go – to not give into the hustle and bustle and to remember my feminist roots. This post is for all of you ladies in the pink loft – the real grounded amazing women that taught me so much about how to be my best self.

I will miss you dearly.