Archewell Foundation Expands Support for Girls in Digital Wellness Programs

On International Day of the Girl, the Archewell Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to creating safer and more inclusive digital spaces for girls. In collaboration with Pivotal Ventures and the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, the foundation continues to back a partnership between Girls Inc. and #HalfTheStory. The initiative focuses on digital wellness, mental health, and empowering young women in underserved communities to navigate technology with confidence.

The partnership reflects a growing effort to centre youth voices in discussions about digital safety and mental wellbeing. It also signals a shift toward long-term investment in programs that help girls shape their relationship with technology from an early age.

Expanding Digital Wellness For Young Girls

In October 2024, Girls Inc. and #HalfTheStory launched a national education partnership supported by Archewell, Pivotal Ventures, and the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation. The program provides digital wellness education to communities across the United States, addressing how constant connectivity affects girls’ confidence, friendships, and mental health.

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The initiative builds on #HalfTheStory’s Social Media U program, which promotes healthy online habits and emotional wellbeing. These are core themes of the organization’s mission. The approach is practical, designed to help girls manage the pressures of technology while maintaining self-esteem and balance.

Meghan Sussex’s involvement deepened the partnership’s authenticity. During her 2024 visit to Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara, she spoke about the challenges of online bullying and technology culture. Her remarks reflected a broader understanding of digital harm and its impact on young women. Her conversation with students showed why programs like this are vital. Especially for girls growing up in an increasingly digital world.

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Teen Tech Council Leads Youth Dialogue

The initiative grew in 2025 through the launch of the New York State x Teen Tech Council, created by #HalfTheStory to bring students into direct conversation with policymakers. As New York explores phone-free policies in schools, the council gives young people a voice. It helps girls share their views on how such changes affect learning, connection, and mental health.

The council evolved from #HalfTheStory’s Digital Civic Academy, which trains nearly 60 students annually in advocacy and leadership around digital wellbeing. Through these programs, teenagers are gaining the tools to influence education policy and promote healthier online communities. The model represents a forward-looking approach that sees young people as partners, not passive participants.

Collaboration That Strengthens Community Impact

The strength of the initiative lies in collaboration. Pivotal Ventures, founded by Melinda French Gates, focuses on advancing women and innovation in technology. The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation brings long-standing support for education and emotional health. The Archewell Foundation, led by Prince Harry and Meghan Sussex, continues its mission to promote responsible technology through its Responsible Technology Youth Power Fund.

Together, these organizations amplify a shared goal. Ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to grow up in a digital environment that supports her wellbeing. Their joint investment provides the infrastructure and visibility needed to make youth-led advocacy both credible and lasting.