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Embracing Growth

Finding your authentic self is one of the most rewarding journeys in life. 

Discover something that reflects who you truly are—something that embodies your unique energy and perspective. Hold on to it, but embrace change when it comes. Growth is an essential part of the journey. Simple actions, like showing kindness to strangers, can transform how others perceive you and how you see yourself.

One rule I live by is to prioritise myself without harming others. This mindset has helped me maintain my self-worth and overcome years of guilt—guilt about leaving people behind or not achieving everything I planned. Letting go of that guilt has made a significant difference in my life.

Struggles are transitional phases, signaling that you’ve outgrown your old life and are making space for something new. Growth happens through action. It’s better to try and fail than to not try at all. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig has been a great comfort to me during such times.

Lastly, listen to those who are older. Their wisdom can provide invaluable guidance. This year, conversations with people 40 years my senior gave me some of the most impactful life lessons I’ve ever received.

 

Lara Markelj on 28/12/2024
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Participating in the "Generative AI: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead" panel at the European Leadership Academy was a truly transformative experience. Meeting 29 incredible young women from diverse backgrounds was both humbling and inspiring. The Academy showed me firsthand the immense impact that can be achieved when young women are given the right opportunities and a platform to grow. I left the Academy feeling more empowered and optimistic than ever.

Maro Manoli

CEO & Co-Founder, E-mbracelet

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It may sound cliché, but the best part of the European Leadership Academy were the caring and passionate people who contributed to it, after the end of the European Leadership Academy, I now feel the most confident and passionate that I have ever been. Importantly, the program was completely free of charge, as an ambitious young woman whose family has always struggled financially, the European Leadership academy was a dream come true in many ways.

Veronika Anna Denner

Student. Represented Austria at the 2024 Summer School in Warsaw

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This transformative journey has prepared me for anything life may throw my way. What touched me most was the opportunity to connect with girls who, like me, share the same dreams yet are wonderfully diverse. They truly inspired me in countless ways. I learned so much about myself throughout this process; the school has impacted every facet of my identity, teaching me self-confidence and the imporance of colaborartions with others.

Lara Markelj

Student. Represented Slovenia at the 2024 Summer School in Warsaw

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I knew that the Summer School for Female Leadership in the Digital Age was going to be an incredible experience but I didn't expect it to be life-changing! With a jam-packed week full of both interesting and challenging discussions, panels, masterclasses & workshops, I left each day feeling inspired and invigorated. I would encourage any young woman interested to apply regardless of your background and experiences - the European Leadership Academy provides an environment for all young women to thrive in.

Amy Calleja

Student. Represented Malta at the 2022 Summer School in Prague

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Sisterhood, support and inspiration are just some of the aspects that we have experienced! The European Leadership Academy is an exceptional and priceless program which opened our horizons for the future. For me, one of the best characteristics of the program was its holistic approach. The range of speakers and experts was extraordinary just as their kindness and openness to answer our questions and connect with us.

Katharina Hertel

Student. Represented Germany at the 2022 Summer School in Prague

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