This was the fastest we’ve ever said “yes” to working on a project. We took one look at Kayleigh MacDonald’s photo series “What We Carry” and we were instantly moved. And instantly in.

This isn’t about lending our expertise in creative storytelling. It’s personal for all us. It’s about standing shoulder to shoulder with an organization that’s tackling one of the most critical issues of our time: the intersection of personal and national security, for girls and gender minorities.

Girl Security is on a mission to transform the conversation around national security by placing the lived experiences of women and gender minorities at the forefront. Their work shines a light on the pervasive impact of normalized violence and the urgent need for equity in a field where these voices are often overlooked. We recognize that the experiences of girls and gender minorities are not just personal—they have national implications. If they’re not safe, no one truly is.

The “What We Carry” series is a powerful visual embodiment of this mission. It serves as a conversation starter, a tool for education, and a call to action. Through this series, Girl Security amplifies stories that are often left untold, helping us all see the world through the eyes of those who are most vulnerable yet most qualified to drive change.

As an agency, we’ve always believed that our work should go beyond creating ads and campaigns—we want to be a force for good in the world. We all say this, but we wanted to do it. Partnering with Girl Security allows us to use our skills to support what we really care about: equity, solidarity, and empowerment. We are committed to amplifying the voices of girls and gender minorities, ensuring their stories are heard, and driving awareness to the critical issues they face.

This partnership is not just about raising awareness—it’s about action. We want to inspire others to join this movement, to understand the importance of intersectional perspectives in national security, and to take part in shaping a more inclusive and secure future.

We invite you to learn more about the “What We Carry” series and the vital work Girl Security is doing. Whether you’re a policymaker, a mentor, a community supporter, you work at an agency, or you are simply someone who cares about making the world a safer place—there’s a role for you in this movement.

Together, we can ensure that the voices of girls and gender minorities are not just heard but are central to the conversation on national security. Your security is our mission—and we’re just getting started.

The Charles Group is proud to partner with Girl Security and Kayleigh MacDonald on their groundbreaking initiative, “What We Carry.”