Empowering Dreams: A Conversation with Christie Garton
In a recent episode of Herstories, I had the joy of speaking with Christie Garton, the visionary founder of the 1000 Dreams Fund. Our conversation shined a bright light on the power of mentorship, visibility, and community in helping young women pursue their ambitions, especially in fields like gaming and STEM where representation is still growing.
Turning Ideas into Action
Christie has spent years turning empowerment from an idea into something real. Through the 1000 Dreams Fund, she and her team provide financial support, mentorship, and opportunities that help young women take meaningful steps toward their dreams. “Empowerment is about turning ideas into action,” she shared, reflecting on how visibility and a strong support system can change the trajectory of someone’s life.
The Role of Community and Partnerships
Christie spoke about the importance of community and partnership in driving nonprofit impact. By working with aligned organizations, brands, and advocates, the 1000 Dreams Fund reaches more young women and opens more doors. These collaborations strengthen each initiative and help ensure support reaches the women who need it most.
Inspiring the Next Generation
At the heart of the 1000 Dreams Fund is a deep commitment to the next generation of leaders. Christie talked about the power of mentorship and the role strong examples play in building confidence and ambition. When young women see others who look like them succeed in gaming, STEM, and other competitive fields, they start to imagine new possibilities for themselves.
Conclusion
This conversation resonated deeply with me. After more than twenty-five years in tech, I know how powerful it is to have someone believe in you, open a door for you, or tell you that you belong. Christie’s work is about more than resources. It is about creating a community where young women feel seen, supported, and encouraged to dream bigger than they ever thought possible.
Call to Action
If her mission inspires you, there are meaningful ways to help. You can mentor a young woman who is just beginning her journey. You can support the 1000 Dreams Fund financially so more scholarships and programs can reach those who need them. You can help open pathways by connecting young women to internships and early career roles.
This work matters. And I am committed to doing my part as a mentor and advocate for the next generation of women in tech.
To learn more and support the 1000 Dreams Fund, listen to the full episode of Herstories and subscribe to stay updated on future conversations.