As governor of Florida Girls State, I have a platform to hone my political skills | Opinion

Having had the privilege of being elected governor of Florida Girls State, I stepped into a transformative experience that illuminated the scarcity of avenues for women to express their political prowess.

As a future public servant, this opportunity not only provided invaluable lessons but also underscored the urgent need for greater inclusivity in the political sphere. I am a senior at West Shore Junior/Senior High School in Melbourne and was chosen as a delegate to go to the Florida Girls State program at Florida State University — where I was eventually elected governor.

Much like its male counterpart, Florida Girls State is a crucible of leadership and civic education. It serves as a training ground for the state’s future leaders, offering a unique platform for young women to develop their skills. In a society where women’s voices are often marginalized in political discourse, this program stands as a beacon of empowerment.

Throughout the program, I was immersed in the intricacies of state politics, learning through hands-on experiences and engaging with like-minded girls. We delved into the creation of a mock state government, mirroring the real-life processes that govern our state.

Elections were a cornerstone of our experience, providing a platform for us to advocate for our beliefs and showcase our leadership abilities. The educational component of Florida Girls State was equally enriching. Workshops on bill creation, effective campaigning, and the legislative process equipped us with knowledge about state government.

Florida Girls State not only prepares young women for leadership roles but also fosters a network of like-minded individuals who are poised to shape the future of our state. It is a testament to the power of inclusivity and the boundless potential of women in politics. I still talk to today the girls I met, whether sharing political news or news about our senior years. I even was able to forge a new friendship with both the governor and lieutenant governor of Boys State: Martin Seals and Siddarth Rama. Making such lifelong connections is the highlight of experiences like these. Regardless of what position each of us may have had in our mock state, the friendships we make is unique to these programs.

In a time when our nation grapples with the need for greater representation, programs such as Florida Girls State offer hope. By providing a platform for young women to hone their political skills, we are taking a critical step towards a more inclusive and equitable political landscape. As we forge ahead, let us continue to champion the voices of young women in politics. I am proud of my experience, as well as the girls in this program.

I know that we all will fight for a brighter future in American politics.

Anjani Sharma is the 2023 Florida Girls State governor.