GIRLSRISING: Knowledge Before Knots
Founded by Ishan Vannadil
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit keeping girls in school, and out of early marriage.
Millions of girls are pulled out of school too soon, facing pressure to marry before they’re ready. We believe education is the most powerful way to change that.
How we help:
✏️ Sponsor Education – Tuition, uniforms, school supplies
📚 Send Materials – Books, backpacks, chromebooks, solar lights
💻 Online Tutoring – Personalized virtual help
🧱 Career Mentoring – Inspiration for life after school
When girls learn, they rise. Help us keep them continuing their education, and in charge of their futures.
Right now, we proudly support 58 bright young girls on their path to education and independence.
Her Story, Her Voice
"I was going to be married at 16 without my wishes. Now I’m in college studying computer engineering. Now I want to become a teacher." — Anjali, 17
“Before she's ready for marriage, she deserves a chance to learn.”
Sponsor a girl. Change a life.
Our Mission
Millions of girls are pulled from school to become brides too soon.
At GirlsRising, we say not yet.
We empower girls through education—because learning should come before lifelong commitments.
Proud partner with the Manavodaya Institute
To provide further educational opportunities to girls in Uttar Pradesh
DATA AND IMPACT
Girls across India face vastly different realities. In some states, nearly 1 in 4 drop out before high school. Below, we explore how dropout rates align with math proficiency.
Meet the Girls
Both of Menal's parents died in a car crash when she was 14. In the middle of high school, her new guardians wished to remove her from school and send her off to get married.
GirlsRising helped Menal get a voice, by sponsoring and paying for her education and sending refurbished devices for her to be able to complete her education.
Meena was two months away from a wedding she never asked for.Instead of wedding vows, she now recites math formulas and English poems. Sponsorship from GirlsRising helped her family see a future beyond early marriage. Meena wants to become a teacher to help other girls stay in school too.
“I thought my life would end in the kitchen.”
Nandita’s village had no girls in high school until GirlsRising helped her enroll and provided her with essentials. Now, she’s the first girl in her community to study computer science and mentor younger girls on their education rights.
Let’s Work Together
Get in touch so we can start working together.
