How This High School Senior is Empowering Girls Through Advocacy + Media

November 19, 2024

Kylie Montigney is a dynamic and multi-talented individual from Scranton, Pennsylvania, deeply involved in hosting, founding, blogging, public speaking, and advocacy work. Her journey into media and storytelling was inspired by her two cousins, who are news anchors at a local station in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Their passion for the stories they covered sparked Kylie’s own pursuit of a career in media.

This story took place in United States

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I’ve never been one to wait for the world to change. Instead, I’ve been on a mission to actively shape it, especially for young women. Born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania, my journey from a passionate advocate to a rising leader in media and mentorship is a testament to my drive to create spaces where young voices can be heard and empowered.

At just 18 years old, I founded Empower Girls, an organization I launched in 2022 to combat gender bias and promote inclusivity. Through Empower Girls, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with the next generation of women leaders, and my mentorship program helps foster young girls’ growth, equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in industries where they are often underrepresented.

But my mission doesn’t stop there. As a podcaster, I’m the voice behind Talk of Fame, a platform I launched in 2021 to explore critical topics like mental health, women’s empowerment, and the power of mentorship. With over 200 guests to date, including celebrities like Madison Watkins and Gabrielle Stone, I strive to create a space for authentic conversations, often shaped by my own experiences with anxiety and overcoming obstacles.The idea behind Talk of Fame was to create a space where people can share their stories openly, and listeners can find inspiration. I’ve had my own struggles, and hearing how others have persevered is what keeps me going.

Through Empower Girls and Talk of Fame, my work has expanded beyond my local community. In the summer of 2023, I launched NEPA Story, a project aimed at spotlighting local businesses, artists, and journalists in Northeast Pennsylvania. This initiative reflects my deep connection to my roots and my desire to uplift others in my hometown.

Combining advocacy and media has led me to speaking engagements, including an upcoming TED-Ed talk in New York, where I’ll discuss women’s empowerment in media. The media has the power to change how we see ourselves, and it’s crucial for young women to see themselves represented in a positive light.

In addition to my work with Empower Girls and Talk of Fame, I serve as the Engagement Officer for Eco Brothers, where I help spotlight youth leaders and foster meaningful conversations around education and the environment. My contributions earned me a spot as a top-three finalist for the Greater Wyoming Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Voluntary Leader of the Year Award.

Despite my busy schedule, I’m still finishing up my senior year of high school and applying to colleges like Penn State and Ithaca College, where I plan to major in Broadcast Journalism. My ultimate goal is to continue using the power of media to inspire change and empower others.

With countless hours of community service behind me and a passion for helping others realize their potential, I’m determined to be a transformative voice in media. Empowerment isn’t just a buzzword to me; it’s a call to action—and I’m answering that call, every single day.

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