Xinyue (Cindy) Chen

Xinyue (Cindy)

Nominated by Shruthi Mathur

All 2025 Children’s Peace Prize Nominees

Cindy, a 16-year-old from the United States (origin China), is transforming the way girls worldwide access leadership, advocacy, and empowerment opportunities. Growing up as an immigrant in a low-income household, Cindy witnessed firsthand how stereotypes and language barriers can silence young girls. In response, she founded IgniteHER, a global initiative with over 600 members across 40 countries, providing mentorship, leadership training, and platforms for girls to advocate for gender equality.

Through workshops, conferences, and community projects—from consent education in Punjab to hygiene-kit drives in the U.S.—Cindy has enabled thousands of girls to reclaim their voices. IgniteHER also mobilizes chapters to engage local communities, raise funds, and support marginalized women. Her initiative combines online outreach and in-person action, fostering confidence, solidarity, and systemic change. With guidance from mentors, her family, and organizational partners, Cindy has built an international network that ensures every girl can step into her power and lead change in her community.