Stretching for thousands of miles along the western edge of South America, the Andes is the longest continental mountain range in the world, extending across seven countries and attracting tourists from all over the globe.

But for the people who have lived in these mountains all of their lives, the Andes is simply the place they call home. And as beautiful as it can be, life there can be just as challenging. In the Cotopaxi province of Ecuador where Plan works, many villages are isolated, with no electricity or plumbing.

Here, girls in Ecuador share the joys and challenges of life in the highlands. Read their stories.

The #GirlDad movement — it started in tribute to Kobe Bryant, honoring his words about being a father to four daughters. “Girls are the best,” Bryant said in a 2018 interview with ESPN. “I would have five more girls if I could. I’m a girl dad.” Fathers everywhere have proudly claimed that same love for their girls. They recognize that the potential of their daughters is the same as that of their sons. And because of that, they’re making serious strides toward gender equality. Here are five “girl dads” from around the world who are doing amazing things for their daughters — and for girls everywhere. Learn more