This manual is designed to help educators engage young women in discussions about how rigid ideas of what it means to be women and men affect women's life choices, health and sexuality. The manual and accompanying video, Once upon a Girl, are part of Program M, an international initiative to promote young women’s empowerment and health. The manual was field-tested in Brazil, Jamaica, Mexico and Nicaragua and includes theoretical background and a series of participatory activities to facilitate group work with young women (15-24 years old) on issues including sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, community participation, and work/employment.