I'm a 19-year-old woman trying to find my place in the world in 2016: a world where patriarchy is very much alive, a world where there is still a gender pay gap, a world where catcalling is rampant, a world where rape culture is taught and there are leaders who condone it, and a world where women are told to shut up and keep their opinions to themselves.

I'm an outspoken feminist who strongly believes in the strength of girl power. Like a little over half of the voters in our country, I was disturbed by the results of this past week’s election. I didn't sugarcoat my opinion and I received a lot of backlash for it. However, I will not let this clip my wings. This week I also connected with many inspiring women from all over the country. I've been inspired to keep my voice heard and make a change because I truly believe girls can make a difference.

To me, being a girl mean so many things. Some of the unfortunate things are having to listen to men “mansplain” things to me, dealing with sexual-harassment and misogyny, having people constantly tell you that your opinion doesn't matter, living in fear of sexual assault, and constantly being told I need to tone myself down. However, being a girl also means many amazing things. To me, it means spreading love and kindness, fiercely advocating for the voiceless, being a role model for the future generation, building up and supporting other women, and never backing down in the pursuit of what is right.

I asked some badass women what being a girl means to them. Their responses were:

“For me being a girl means being the most caring that I can be. It means being understanding of the struggles that other females deal with, and trying to be the Mecca of love and hope. I always try to be kindhearted and speak out for those who can't speak for themselves.”

“Girl power to me means standing up for yourself and for other women, standing together and making an impact. Instead of pointing out other flaws we celebrate who we each other and lift each other up!”

“Being a girl means being in my own head- being a dreamer. Being willing to look past differences and not say my opinion out right if it is not asked for. Being a girl means being an example, a leader, and maintaining everything I do through love.”

A little less than two weeks ago I was approved to start a chapter of the organization I AM THAT GIRL at my college. IATG is a movement inspiring girls to love, express, and be exactly who they are. IATG is helping girls to transform self-doubt into self-love by providing a safe space to be lifted up and have honest conversations about things that matter. My chapter launch is in a few days and I honestly don't think the timing could be more perfect or crucial. I'm so excited and proud that I will have the opportunity to lead with vulnerability and love, not fear. I'm overjoyed to be able to help provide a safe space for all girls to share their opinions when we need to so desperately and help provide a platform to make their voices heard.

I AM THAT GIRL has taught me that being a woman is pretty freaking awesome. It has shown me that my voice is important and valid, regardless of what critics have to say. It has taught me that I want to show other women how to #beTHATGIRL and spread as much love, light, and positivity throughout the world as possible. It has encouraged me to spread my wings and use my power to make a difference. I refuse to let anyone tell me that I'm anything short of incredible or that just because I'm one person I can't change the world because I know I have an entire community of equally incredible, beautyFULL, intelligent, outspoken, and influential women surrounding and supporting me.