Ava Smith is a women’s rights advocate and WomenNC’s Social Media Manager.
“I stand for equality and raising voices that have been silenced.”
Ava started her work with WomenNC as a social media intern last fall. She was inspired by WomenNC’s commitment to gender equality and dedication to women’s empowerment. In her role, Ava monitors the news and reads scholarly articles for developments and current insights on gender issues at a local, national, and global scale. She then creates and shares research-informed content on WomenNC’s social media platforms. “Serving as the Social Media intern has increased my awareness of issues affecting women and children, and has allowed me to be creative in my advocacy work.”
In addition to now serving as WomenNC’s Social Media Manager, Ava participates in WomenNC’s “Lunch and Learn” events to help amplify women’s voices and experiences. The intersection of highlighting gender disparities and cross-organizational collaboration is fundamental to the impact of these events and why Ava considers them valuable. “I can’t pick a favorite [event] because they each present important information about gender issues. I do appreciate connecting with other organizations that also promote women’s empowerment and collaborating with them in bringing awareness to the issues at hand.”
Ava Smith is currently an undergraduate student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In May, Ava will graduate with double majors in Exercise and Sports Science, and Women’s and Gender Studies, and with a Health and Society minor. Ava’s studies have led her to realize her passion for helping others and her involvement at WomenNC has prepared her to work with people from diverse backgrounds. She will begin her Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy program at Lenoir-Rhyne University this fall. Ava’s commitment to equal rights, passion for helping others realize their full potential, and dedication to supporting her future clients all motivate her as she begins her journey to become an occupational therapist.