Fall 2026
The Power of Punchlines:
Stand-Up Comedy for Change
In this Journey, mentees and mentors will explore the power of comedy as a tool for social change, with a special focus on stand-up comedy. From climate change and economic inequality to LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and mental health, mentees and mentors will learn how to write and perform material that blends humor with meaningful social critique. Comedy is a form of intelligence—whether you’re new to comedy or a seasoned performer, this Journey will help you use humor as a force for social impact. Mentees and mentors will develop creative voice, confidence, advocacy abilities, storytelling, and performance skills while using comedy to engage with real-world issues and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.
Ready to Apply? Applications Open July 15
Learn more below or get started now. If you do not already have a Girls Write Now Portal account, you will be asked to create one in order to apply.
Pre-Enroll Now
Ready to Apply? Applications Open July 15
Learn more below or get started now. If you do not already have a Girls Write Now Portal account, you will be asked to create one in order to apply.
- JOURNEY REQUIREMENTS
- Cycle(s) 1 Cycle (3 months, Nov 1 – Jan 31)
- Time Commitment a minimum of 4 hours per month
- Journey Meetings Attend all Journey Meetings & Live Showcase (see dates below).
- Mentoring Have at least 2 Pair Sessions per month
- Journey Project Write your own 5min stand-up set
Learning Objectives
The Power of Punchlines Community Experiences
Participants will attend two Journey Live Meetings each month. Additionally, you can schedule 1:1 office hours with the Journey Instructor for individual assistance as needed.
The cycle will conclude with a hybrid Stand-Up Comedy Show, where participants can perform their sets for a live audience.
Fall Cycle Journey Meetings:
- November 7th & 21st, 1-2:30 PM ET
- December 5th & 19th, 1-2:30 PM ET
- January 9th & 23rd, 1-2:30 PM ET
Fall Cycle Stand-Up Comedy Show:
- Saturday, January 30th at 3-4:30pm ET
The Power of Punchlines Courses
Intro to Stand-Up Comedy
This course is designed to guide aspiring comedians through the art of writing and performing stand-up comedy. We will explore the various components that make up a successful set, including joke structure, timing, and stage presence. Each week, we will tackle a specific concept, allowing participants to develop their material progressively and refine their unique comedic voice.
The Power of Punchlines Mentoring
Mentees and mentors in the Power of Punchlines Journey will be matched for one cycle. Each pair will meet for at least two hour-long sessions per month. Mentees will develop a 5-minute stand-up comedy set, while mentors will provide support and guidance throughout the process. This journey is open to both mentor/mentee pairs and peer-to-peer pairs.
Journey Teaching Artist
Performance 360 & Lead 360
All Journeys within the Lead 360 Adventure emphasize leadership, aiming to help mentees and mentors develop their leadership skills and work together to create a better future. Learn more about the other Adventures offered at Girls Write Now below.
The Power of Punchlines is a Journey in the Performance 360 and Lead 360 Adventures.
Explore All Journeys
Explore All Journeys
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Create your own experience with our Independent Study Journey. Mentees and mentors meet as a pair, attend events of interest, and use coursework to support creative projects and personal goals. Along the way, you can connect with others during a mid-cycle mixer designed to spark inspiration, share ideas, and build community. The Journey culminates in a showcase where participants present the work they have developed throughout the cycle and celebrate their accomplishments together. Mentees and mentors will benefit by gaining greater independence in their learning, deepening their creative practice, and building meaningful connections while pursuing self-directed goals.
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