Vigjilenca Abazi is an Assistant Professor of European Law at Maastricht University with experience beyond ten years in civil society activities in Europe working on a wide range of issues relating to the rule of law and fundamental rights. Deeply concerned by the lack of resources and support for education in Macedonia, Vigjilenca took the initiative to bring the Stella team together with the common strong belief in fostering the aspirations of girls and women. Support by mentors is key in education and life. In fact, it was a mentor that encouraged Vigjilenca to pursue her PhD degree while she was completing her first Masters studies at University of Amsterdam. The mentor’s support was instrumental for Vigjilenca to write her PhD research proposal and set the first steps towards building a career in academia. Now as an assistant professor, Vigjilenca values mentorship even more and she is deeply convinced that a good mentor can contribute to positive life-changing decisions and attaining our own potential. This is core to Stella’s efforts and our Women Mentorship Network. Expanding Stella beyond Macedonia, Vigjilenca was also a Fulbright Alumnus-in-Residence in New York and throughout 2018, with the support of Fulbright NY Chapter, now Stella also has a base in New York City.