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ISN Marks International Day of the Girl Child: Tackling the Influence of Social Media and the Risks of Cosmetic Surgery

ISN Marks International Day of the Girl Child: Tackling the Influence of Social Media and the Risks of Cosmetic Surgery
Elizabeth Hernandez
On Friday, October 11, 2024, a group of ISN students from Grades 8 to 10 gathered at the Hôtel de Ville de Nice for a significant event commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child. Organised as part of World Mental Health Week, the event addressed critical challenges facing young girls today, such as the pressures from social media and the rising trend of cosmetic surgery among teenagers. The event, hosted by the Mairie de Nice, was led by Maty Diouf, Deputy Mayor for Women’s Rights and Anti-Discrimination, and supported by Louise Chalifour, Honorary Consul of Canada for the South Region of France.
 

 

Canada, a global leader in promoting women’s rights and gender equality, played a vital role in establishing the International Day of the Girl Child. Officially recognised by the United Nations in 2011, following Canada’s advocacy through Plan International's "Because I Am a Girl" campaign, the day aims to highlight the unique challenges girls face worldwide. It focuses on empowering girls, ensuring gender equality, and promoting their rights to education, protection, and leadership opportunities.
 
Since 2022, ISN has embraced these principles, actively supporting the cause and embedding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ) values into its initiatives. This year’s event reaffirmed ISN’s commitment to global movements, aligning with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
 
  • Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)
  • Quality Education (SDG 4)
  • Gender Equality (SDG 5)
  • Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
During the event, ISN students had the chance to engage with an esteemed panel of experts who provided valuable insights into the intersections of mental health, body image, and gender equality.
The panel included:
  • Maty Diouf – Deputy Mayor, Women’s Rights and Anti-Discrimination.
  • Richard Chemla – Deputy Mayor, Ecological and Energy Transition, Health and Well-being, Animal Protection, UNOC2025.
  • Abdalah Khemis – Municipal Councillor and Dermatologist Surgeon.
  • Louise Chalifour – Honorary Consul of Canada for the South Region of France.
  • Dr Philippe Kestemont – A renowned cervico-facial surgery specialist.

 

One of the event’s main discussions centred on the growing influence of social media on young girls’ perceptions of beauty and self-worth. The increasing promotion of unrealistic beauty standards online has led many young girls to seek cosmetic surgery to conform to these ideals, often at the expense of their mental and physical health. Students participated in lively discussions about the negative impact of social media’s portrayal of perfection, which fosters a toxic environment that undermines self-esteem and overall well-being.
 
"Participating in this event was unforgettable. I learned about the risks of unprofessional plastic surgery and was surprised by how many young women seek changes without clear reasons. I appreciated how we all listened to each other, despite differing opinions,” said Clara Grade 9 ISN Student, reflecting on the experience.
 
"Taking part in this event was incredible. Speaking with government officials and renowned specialists, as well as with other young students, was extremely informative. We learnt about the unfortunate dangers of unprofessional plastic surgery and the effects of social media on young women. It was an eye-opening experience that I am grateful to have been a part of," shared Stephanie from Grade 8
 
Tomas, also in Grade 8, echoed these sentiments, saying, "On Friday during International Day of the Girl, I was lucky enough to get chosen to go meet the mayor. I found this experience incredible and learned so much about the dangers of cosmetic surgery. This was an incredible experience, and I would love to attend more of these events in the future."
 
"It was an honour and a privilege to represent ISN at the International Day of the Girl event. It was a great opportunity for me to discuss and learn from our local community leaders. I really enjoyed this experience, as I was able to express my ideas and converse with all the important members present about the dangers of plastic surgeries done by unqualified doctors," shared Adrian, a Grade 9 ISN student.
 
This event marked another milestone in ISN’s ongoing commitment to mental health awareness and gender equality. By providing students with a platform to discuss the pressures girls face, particularly from social media, ISN continues to promote a culture of inclusivity and equity. These conversations not only empower students to advocate for their well-being but also inspire them to contribute to the global movement for a healthier and more just society.
 
The event highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue around these critical issues, encouraging young people to take an active role in shaping a more equitable future for all.