Introducing WPGA's Story Walk for International Women's Day

We are thrilled to introduce our 2025 story walk!  A story walk is an innovative and delightful way for children (and adults!) to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. In celebration of International Women’s Day, WPGA has chosen The Water Princess by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds, for this year’s Story Walk on campus. This powerful and beautifully illustrated book highlights themes of resilience, determination, and the importance of access to clean water, making it a fitting choice for an event dedicated to empowering women and advocating for equality.

Inspired by the childhood experiences of Georgie Badiel, a model and activist from Burkina Faso, The Water Princess tells the story of a young girl named Gie Gie who dreams of bringing clean water to her village. Each day, she walks long distances with her mother to fetch water, a reality that many women and girls in developing countries face. The story sheds light on the challenges of water scarcity while celebrating the strength and perseverance of women and girls worldwide.

"We selected The Water Princess for our Story Walk because it aligns with the spirit of International Women’s Day," said Ms. Corcoran, Head of Junior School. "The book not only raises awareness about global issues but also highlights the resilience of women and the power of their dreams."

The Story Walk, which features pages of the book displayed along a scenic path on campus, encourages participants to engage with the story while reflecting on its message. The interactive experience fosters discussion about gender equality, global challenges, and the role of women in advocating for change.

Students, staff, and community members are invited to take part in the Story Walk throughout the week of International Women’s Day, which this year is Saturday, March 8. Alongside the event, the school will host discussions and activities centred around the themes of the book, reinforcing the importance of education, empowerment, and action.

The Water Princess serves as a reminder of the critical role women play in their communities and the ongoing need for access to clean water, a fundamental human right. By sharing Gie Gie’s story, we hope to inspire students to think globally and act locally in support of women and girls everywhere.