What is the Courage Challenge?
The Courage Challenge is a 7-day text-based experience designed to help pre-teen and teen girls build real-life confidence — through daily “micro-bravery” challenges rooted in behavioral psychology, emotional intelligence, and play.
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A small courage challenge she can do in real life
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A short reflection prompt to help her make meaning
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Bravery Points and Heart Gems to make it fun
Our Story
Michelle Chan
Hi, I’m Michelle! I’m an MBA student at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and the founder of the Courage Challenge, which started with one simple belief: every girl deserves to feel brave and supported.
The Courage Challenge was inspired by my Kellogg-funded research on children’s wellness in Denmark and the Netherlands — countries consistently ranked by UNICEF as the best places in the world to grow up. During my research, I visited LEGO HQ and explored how digital experiences can be intentionally designed to support children’s emotional wellbeing.
In a world that often tells girls to be quiet, perfect, or small, I wanted to create something different — something playful, powerful, and personal.
What began as a few daily text messages has grown into a nationwide movement helping girls ages 10–15 build confidence, try new things, and speak up with courage. Today, Courage Cubs across the country are earning bravery points, tackling social fears, and realizing: they’re not alone and their voice matters. I hope you'll enjoy our movement to support brave girls!
Founder / CEO
FAQs
1 / What ages is this for?
We currently support girls aged 10-15, when girls are forming their identities and are most vulnerable to self-doubt and a drop in confidence.
2 / Does my daughter need a phone?
She does not need a phone if she is able to receive iMessages on a Watch or iPad!
3 / How much does this cost?
We offer a free 10-day trial for girls to start the Courage Challenge. After the free 10-day trial, it costs $20 for the next 10-day Courage Challenge or $50 for the next 30-day Courage Challenge.