Staff Reports | Community Updates
Girls Rule Foundation held its seventh annual Girls Change the World Summit in Tempe, bringing together teen girls, mentors, educators, business leaders and community supporters for a day focused on leadership, confidence and career development. The event concluded with the announcement of the 2026 Girls Change the World Scholarship recipients.
The summit drew 132 nominations from 52 schools across Arizona, representing communities from Yuma, Prescott, Douglas and Phoenix, according to a press release.
Each nominee received a certificate recognizing her as an emerging leader making a difference in her school, family or community. Students were nominated by teachers, coaches, counselors and parents for their leadership, resilience and commitment to serving others. All nominees were recognized at the summit through a partnership among Girls Rule Foundation, Rio Salado College and the City of Tempe.
After a selection process, six young women were chosen as the 2026 scholarship recipients and awarded $1,500 scholarships and three months of mentoring through Girls Rule Foundation.
“We are incredibly proud of these young women and the example they are setting for the next generation,” Girls Rule Foundation Co-Founder and Program Creator Dena Patton said. “These girls are leading with courage, vision, compassion and determination. They remind us that girls truly can change the world.”
The summit included leadership workshops, goal-setting sessions, keynote speakers, networking opportunities and mentorship activities designed to help teen girls develop confidence, career skills and leadership abilities.
2026 Girls Change the World Scholarship recipients
Ana Cristina Del Castillo, Douglas High School
A statewide leader serving as AASC state president and SkillsUSA Arizona Region 6 officer, Ana Cristina Del Castillo has made an impact across Arizona through her leadership, vision and pride in her heritage. She continues to inspire other young leaders through her dedication to service and community.
Donya Fournier, Arizona College Prep
An internationally ranked archer with championships in the United States, Canada and France, Donya Fournier is also a published author, TED-Ed presenter in New York City and speaks four languages. She uses her talents, leadership and compassion to positively influence others.
Lucy Fisher, Desert Vista High School
Lucy Fisher leads with kindness, integrity and determination. From leading a 50-mile backpacking trip to serving as golf team captain, Unified Sports leader and National Honor Society vice president, she encourages those around her while pursuing a future career in finance.
Naeva Ortega, Sunnyside High School
Naeva Ortega is a student leader who helps plan the annual Youth & Peace Conference while pursuing a multiyear aviation program on her path toward aerospace engineering. She leads with integrity, purpose and a commitment to serving others.
Marlee Zee Ugarte, West Point High School
Marlee Zee Ugarte is a resilient, team-focused leader who demonstrates courage and responsibility across JAG, flag football, wrestling and tennis. She is known for stepping up for others with kindness and determination.
Mikalyn Bailey receives 2026 Fearless Girl Award
Mikalyn Bailey of Basha High School received the 2026 Fearless Girl Award, which recognizes a young woman demonstrating courage and
leadership.
A flight commander in JROTC, Chandler Police cadet and team director for Basha High School’s mountain bike team, Mikalyn Bailey leads with a “we mindset instead of a me mindset.” She also created a clinic with the Arizona Cycling Association to help young women build confidence and skills through mountain biking.
