Teen Girls Graduate From Leadership Program That Combats Bullying
Many teenage girls struggle with the negative effect of bullying and poor selfimage, but one local organization offers a safe place for self-discovery and self-expression without fear of judgment. More than 30 girls have spent the last few months building self-esteem and gaining leadership skills in an atmosphere where they felt free to be themselves, learning what defines healthy relationships and how to resolve conflict, as well as basic budgeting skills.
It’s all part of Girl Talk Foundation, Inc.’s “Tailoring Teens For Success”™ program, based on building character, self-empowerment and other vital life skills. Thirty-two girls will graduate from the program Saturday, December 14, 2013, 9:00-11:00am at The Hilton Charlotte University, 8629 J.M. Keynes Dr. Media are invited to attend.
During the course of the program, which expanded this year from 11 weeks to 16 weeks, girls spent three hours on Saturday mornings engaged in interactive work sessions. Topics range from bullying to beauty. During video testimonials the girls admitted, while they weren’t particularly fond of getting up on Saturday mornings, they truly enjoyed learning new life-changing skills, meeting new friends and having the freedom to express themselves.
‘When you come to Girl Talk activities you aren’t judged on anything. You can be yourself and be comfortable,” said program participant Arieonna Stewart.
“When it’s all said and done, we want to plant a seed in each one of these girls hoping they will walk away with a greater sense of self and be empowered to achieve greatness,” said Girl Talk Foundation, Inc. Founder and Executive Director Janine Davis.
On Saturday, graduates will receive certificates and Girl Talk charm bracelets in recognition of completing the program. Since Girl Talk Foundation, Inc.’s “Tailoring Teens For Success” curriculum began in 2006, more than 300 girls have graduated from the program. After Girl Talk, 77 percent of the girls had a strong interest in attending college after high school; 98 percent expressed a boost in self-esteem.
