🚣🏽‍♂️ Finding Confidence, One Paddle Stroke at a Time: 11 Girls.

7 Countries. 7 Miles. Eleven remarkable girls from Afghanistan, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq, Kurdistan, Nepal, Sudan, and Syria took on their very first paddling adventure, traveling 7 miles down the Yellow River with our incredible partners at Georgia Rivers. For many participants, this was their first time in a kayak and their first experience on moving water. And most of them don’t know how to swim- how brave!! By the end of the day, they had accomplished something many adults have never done. This wasn’t an easy float. Together, they navigated shallow sandbars, fallen trees and strainers, and worked as a team through every challenge the river presented. Every obstacle became another opportunity to build confidence, resilience, and trust in one another. 🎣 Plus, some fishing and a rope swing! Their bravery, persistence, and teamwork were nothing short of inspiring. A heartfelt thank you to Joe and the @georgia_river_network team for expertly leading this adventure and for capturing these incredible photos. Thank you also to our amazing peer leaders, staff, volunteers, and supporters who encouraged the girls every mile of the journey. At Refugee Women’s Network, we believe outdoor adventure creates more than memories—it develops leadership, resilience, belonging, and the confidence to navigate challenges both on and off the water. See you on the next adventure. 🛶💙🌿 #YouthOutside #OutdoorWellness #RefugeeWomen #GirlsOutside #Leadership