Girls Walk Forward was created in October 2021 by Tessa Firth who is an Acadia University BSc and Memorial University Master of Public Health Graduate. Tessa is from Canning, Nova Scotia, and wanted to create this program after the COVID-19 Pandemic as she realized that middle school is difficult and isolating enough as it is; especially following a pandemic.

Tessa was lucky to grow up with two older sisters who acted as mentors to her, and she wanted Girls Walk Forward to be a space for those who may not have older siblings to gather, feel empowered, and feel a sense of social support.

Why Walking?

Tessa thought walking would be the best suited activity for this program as it is less intimidating for youth than sitting across from a mentor and feeling the pressure of eye contact. Walking outside allows for conversations to flow organically, and allows for everyone to engage in movement, and feel connected with nature.