This summer, Girls Inc. of Delaware joined Girls Inc. affiliates nationwide for TeenCon 2026, a three-day experience designed to help girls build confidence, explore their futures, and connect with other young leaders.

Held August 7–9 at the University of Delaware, TeenCon brought together 70 girls from eight Girls Inc. affiliates: Delaware, Long Island, Valley, Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey, Capital Region, Syracuse, Westchester, and Connecticut.

Throughout the weekend, girls participated in interactive sessions focused on leadership, college and career readiness, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and life after high school. The experience gave girls a chance to ask questions, learn from college students and leaders, and gain practical knowledge they can carry into their next chapter.

Building Confidence for What Comes Next

A major part of TeenCon was helping girls think about their futures beyond high school. Through conversations and hands-on activities, participants explored different college and career pathways while learning how to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their goals.

Connecting with college leaders and students also gave girls the chance to hear real experiences and ask questions about what comes next. These conversations helped make the transition after high school feel more approachable and gave participants new perspectives to consider as they plan their futures.

More Than a Conference

TeenCon was also about creating connections. Bringing girls together from multiple Girls Inc. affiliates allowed participants to meet peers from different communities who share their experiences, goals, and desire to make an impact.

Between sessions, activities, and time spent together, girls built new friendships and created memories that extended beyond the weekend. The multi-affiliate experience showed participants that their Girls Inc. community is much bigger than their own neighborhood or affiliate.

Girls’ Voices Matter

The impact of TeenCon was reflected in feedback from participants after the event. In a post-event survey, 52 girls shared their experiences, giving TeenCon an average rating of 4.27 out of 5.

When asked whether TeenCon helped them feel more prepared for college, 67% of respondents said yes, while 31% were neutral and 2% said no.

These responses demonstrate the value of creating spaces where girls can learn, ask questions, meet new people, and envision themselves taking their next steps with confidence.

Looking Ahead

TeenCon 2026 was more than a weekend away—it was an opportunity for girls to lead, learn, connect, and imagine what is possible.

As our girls continue exploring college, careers, leadership, and their own goals, the connections and confidence they gained through TeenCon can continue to shape the choices they make and the leaders they become.

At Girls Inc., we believe every girl has the power to be Strong, Smart, and Bold. TeenCon gave 70 girls the opportunity to put that belief into action—and to see that they are not alone as they build their futures.