10th Anniversary Dreams Campaign 10 Question Series - Stacey Keare

One of the ways we are celebrating our 10th Anniversary Dreams Campaign is through a 10 Question Series. The Dreams Campaign was created on the belief that girls who dream, become women with vision and through this campaign we hope to connect the SEGA girls with people and organizations around the world through their shared dreams. Our goal is to show each girl at SEGA the endless possibilities that come from investing in girls' education. We are excited for you to read our 10 Question Series with Stacey Keare, President of the Girls Rights Project.

1. What did you aspire for at an early age?

I think I aspired to do something like join the foreign service or be a civil rights lawyer.

2. What inspired those dreams?

My dad worked at the World Bank (I was born in Malaysia) and my grandmother was a lawyer. They were my two role models. Also a family friend was Senator Sam Nunn and I have always had a certain interest in politics.

3. What is the most difficult decision you’ve had to make to pursue your dream?

My personal life has complicated some decisions. I met my husband as a freshman in college. By the time I had spent 5 years in graduate school I was ready to be with him and we had to decide where we would both want to live. We both love California but some of the career choices would have been elsewhere.

4. What’s one thing you would tell your younger self?

I would tell myself that the period of life where you get to decide things for yourself is short if you want to move on and have a family. So keep an open mind but move confidently towards your dreams and don’t waste time.

5. Who is someone you look up to / admire?

So many people I have met through my foundation. Molly Melching of Tostan. Scott Neeson of Cambodia Childrens Fund. Barbara Bylenga of She Can. I have been so fortunate to meet so many social entrepreneurs who are incredibly dedicated and talented. Also Bryan Stevenson.

6. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

My best advice came from my parents who did not pressure us (my sister brother and I) to do anything. I see so many parents want to direct and make decisions for their children. My parents said to trust your self, follow your interests, and also follow your heart. All of these things worked out for me.

7. Who was your best teacher/helper on your journey?

Diane Tavenner was a great teacher for me. She runs Summit Public Schools and I was on her board for 9 years. She taught me to never get frazzled by anything. She had so many road blocks put in her way and she never ever sweated it (at least not that we could see.)

8. How did your environment/friends shape/support your dreams?

I grew up as an athlete and I grew up with very supportive parents. Both of these things gave me a lot of confidence to do what I wanted to do.

9. Was there ever a time you felt uncertain about your dream?

I feel like my dreams have evolved and that’s been very exciting to learn. My interest in Girls Rights specifically grew out of having three daughters, at which point I became hyper aware of the difficulties girls face. If you have a change in your dreams continue to follow that path.

10. What is a piece of advice you have for the SEGA girls?

Be fearless. Do not worry about obstacles. Trust yourself. But also work really hard.

Stacey Keare, President of the Girls Rights Project, an organization that has provided over $3.5 million in grants to organizations that address issues of human rights, health, and education. The Girls Rights Project focuses on projects that will provide girls with lives of autonomy, dignity, and hope.