2025 Trailblazer Fellowship Kickoff

Trailblazers Past and Present: A Powerful Gathering of Cohorts

On March 29, the Ann Bancroft Foundation hosted a joyful, heartfelt, and inspiring gathering that brought together Trailblazer Fellows from all three cohorts for an unforgettable afternoon at the Minnesota History Center. The event served a dual purpose: it marked the official kickoff for Cohort 3 and the closing ceremony for Cohort 2, while also welcoming members of Cohort 1 back into the fold for reconnection and reflection.

This multi-cohort moment created a rare and powerful opportunity—where past, present, and future Fellows could cross paths, share stories, and see themselves reflected in one another. It was a celebration of community, growth, and what’s possible when young women are empowered to pursue their bold dreams.

Setting the Tone: Curiosity, Courage, and Connection

The event began with time for Fellows to arrive, get settled, and ease into the day’s programming. Early agenda items focused on creating connections among members of Cohorts 2 and 3, many of whom were meeting for the first time. Icebreakers, laughter, and storytelling filled the room with warmth and ease. Fellows in Cohort 3 participated in goal-setting and helped shape their shared community standards—laying the foundation for a year of learning, exploration, and support.

During a listening session that followed, all three cohorts came together to reflect on their experiences in the Trailblazer Fellowship. The session, facilitated by ABF staff, provided space for candid feedback and visionary thinking: What does mentorship mean to you? What’s been the most meaningful part of the program? What kind of support do you need as you step into your next chapter? Fellows shared ideas that will help shape the future of the Fellowship for years to come.

A Moment with Ann

After introductions from each Fellow, the group gathered for a rare treat—time with ABF founder and namesake, Ann Bancroft. Ann shared insights from her personal journey as an explorer, educator, and advocate for girls’ leadership. Her words were grounding and galvanizing: a reminder that bravery takes many forms, and that dreams—especially the big, bold ones—are worth pursuing with your whole heart.

For many Fellows, this was their first time meeting Ann in person, and the chance to engage in meaningful conversation with her was deeply impactful. It was a reminder that the Trailblazer Fellowship is not just about funding opportunities—it’s about building relationships that fuel confidence, connection, and change.

Honoring Cohort 2: A Celebration of Growth

The final portion of the afternoon was devoted to the closing ceremony for Cohort 2, a moment of reflection and recognition. Fellows took turns sharing their stories from the past year: challenges they faced, lessons they learned, and the growth they experienced along the way. Their reflections were deeply personal, often emotional, and always powerful.

Serena Eischens spoke about her passion for aviation and the courage it took to begin flight training, even while managing anxiety. “In the past, nervousness kept me from pursuing things I was genuinely interested in,” she shared. “But I’ve made progress I’m proud of—both personally and in my field.”

Madeline Lemmer described how her understanding of change has evolved. “I used to think becoming a Supreme Court Justice was the path to change. Now I know that change happens when we show up for others—in conversations, in classrooms, in community spaces.”

Ashley Akoussan, now preparing to attend Howard University, shared the emotional rollercoaster of the college application process and what it taught her about resilience. “A rejection does not define who you are—how you overcome it defines you.”

Elyana Hewitt, a classically trained musician and soon-to-be Harvard student, reflected on how music and nature grounded her during a year of growth and challenge. “I experienced a lot of change this year,” she said. “But through it all, I kept coming back to what brings me joy.”

Michon Harju talked about adapting to a new environment as a first-year college student in the Twin Cities. “This last year brought a lot of change,” she said. “I’m proud that I faced new experiences head on and built a new community.”

Each speech underscored the heart of the Fellowship: that growth often begins at the edge of comfort—and that support, mentorship, and reflection make all the difference.

Looking Forward, Together

The day closed with group photos, hugs, and a celebratory meal shared with mentors, parents, and ABF staff. It was a fitting end to a gathering that honored the past, embraced the present, and welcomed the future. For Cohort 2, it marked the conclusion of their Fellowship year—but also the beginning of a lifetime connection to the ABF community. For Cohort 3, it was the start of a new journey, filled with possibility and support.

As the room slowly emptied and tables were cleared, one thing was clear: the spirit of the Trailblazer Fellowship is alive and growing. With each cohort, the circle expands—filled with girls and young women who dare to dream boldly, live courageously, and lift one another up along the way.

Learn more about the Trailblazer Fellowship and how you can support bold dreams: annbancroftfoundation.org/programs/trailblazer-fellowship