Empowered Flower Girl News – Empowered Flower Girl

She’s EmPOWERed: Georgia Teen Encourages Confidence Through Creation and Connection

Posted on December 15, 2025 by empoweredflowergirl

Seventeen-year-old changemaker Mei Tham is transforming the way girls see themselves (and their potential) through the power of creativity. As the founder of Confidence Through Creation, Mei leads a growing nonprofit dedicated to helping youth and women build self-esteem through authentic expression, mentorship and community connection.

Mei’s journey began in her freshman year, when she posted her first makeup video online. What started as a simple hobby quickly became a lesson in courage. Facing judgment from peers, Mei discovered that creating content wasn’t just about beauty products, it was also a pathway to embracing her true self.

“As someone who struggled with confidence growing up, I found empowerment through content creation and the ability to impact others,” Mei said. “Pushing myself out of my comfort zone to express myself in a way that was uncommon for girls my age, inspired me to create a community where others could do the same without fear.”

Today, Confidence Through Creation offers digital content, workshops, community projects and mentorship opportunities that encourage girls to explore their passions and turn them into impact. One of Mei’s standout initiatives includes mentorship meetings that guide girls in using their interests – whether writing, fashion, photography or social media – to design projects that uplift others. A recent example is a mentee-led “Write to Heal” journaling workshop for middle schoolers, helping participants process emotions through creative expression.

The organization also hosts a podcast spotlighting women founders who share the real and raw challenges and joys of entrepreneurship. Through these conversations, Mei shows young women that confidence often grows from vulnerability, resilience and of course, creativity.

Rooted in the theme of creating confidence through connection, Mei dreams of expanding her platform nationally after college. She plans to study human-centered technology and hopes to bring more girls into tech by blending innovation with creativity.

Learn more at confidencethroughcreation.org.

She’s EmPOWERed: Maryland Teen on a Mission to Make Activism Accessible for All

Posted on January 8, 2025January 8, 2025 by empoweredflowergirl

At just 13 years old, Carolyn Deol is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. As the founder of The Yellow Roses, a Maryland-based youth advocacy and service-learning nonprofit, Carolyn has already established her place as a changemaker.

Her journey began at just six years old when her mother and grandmother took her to phone bank for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign. That experience ignited her passion for activism.

“I felt so empowered and inspired, and I wanted to continue to pursue activism outside of the election, but when I asked other organizations if I could join, they told me they were all for highschoolers, and no one was willing to make an exception. So, I founded The Yellow Roses in 2020.”

The name and founding year of The Yellow Roses are deeply symbolic. The organization’s creation in 2020 coincided with the centennial of the 19th Amendment, which extended voting rights to women. The yellow rose, a historic symbol of support for women’s suffrage in 1920, now represents courage, equality, and social justice—a mission Carolyn embraces wholeheartedly.

Making Activism Accessible

Carolyn’s vision for The Yellow Roses centers on making activism inclusive for youth of all ages.

One initiative that the organization offers is the School Year of Service where youth take on a different service project each month of the school year.

“We have organized voter registration drives. We do social justice storytime, where we read a story about a social justice movement such as women’s suffrage movement or the civil rights movement and then do a craft to go along with it,” Carolyn explained.

Currently, Carolyn is leading the charge to educate young people about the Equal Rights Amendment and empower them to take action to support it as part of the 12 days for the ERA initiative.

After high school, she plans to attend law school and one day step into the political arena.

For this young changemaker, activism isn’t just a passion—it’s a lifelong mission. Kudos to Carolyn for empowering a generation of young leaders!

Follow The Yellow Roses via Instagram.

Moving Forward to 15: Reflections and Updates from Empowered Flower Girl

Posted on December 12, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting on the journey ahead—2025 marks the 15th anniversary of my passion project that blossomed into a social enterprise: Empowered Flower Girl ™.

When I launched in 2010, I had a simple yet powerful mission: to transform how young people relate to themselves and each other. Little did I know the impact we’d make over the years, partnering with schools and nonprofits, empowering youth to live above bullying and drama, and inspiring intergenerational empathy and understanding.

Our 10-year anniversary in 2020 was meant to be a huge milestone, but like many, we faced unexpected challenges due to COVID. While the celebration we envisioned didn’t happen, our work didn’t stop. In fact, it evolved. That year, we:

Garnered media recognition for continuing to support youth and educators.

Launched the Girl World Peace Academy, our first-ever course and coaching program.

Fully embraced technology to bring our message of empowerment to a broader audience (the UK, Canada and South Africa).

Now, as we step into 2025, Empowered Flower Girl ™ is evolving, and so am I. But one thing remains constant: my unwavering commitment to youth and the incredible individuals who work tirelessly to uplift and inspire them.

Thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey—from our first Chica Chat workshops to our ongoing advocacy for community and sisterhood.

Are you or do you know someone who wants to launch or grow a youth-serving or mentoring organization? Do you/they need clarity, support and resources (including funding opportunities, PR/marketing help and program ideas) to make it happen?

Our Girl World Peace Academy offers all of the above and more. Enrollment is open through the end of National Mentoring Month, January 31, 2025. This is your last chance to get access to this amazing professional development opportunity and 1:1 coaching for under $300!

She’s EmPOWERed: Colorado Teen is Blazing a Trail in Mountain Biking

Posted on November 7, 2024November 6, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

Isabela Wester-Rivera is taking the mountain biking world by storm. At 17, she competes on the Puerto Rico National Team and Donovan Racing Team and holds both the title of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Mountain Bike Champion in her category (Junior, female). While her journey began as a competitive rock climber, after nearly a decade in the sport, Isabela pivoted to focus solely on mountain biking—a decision that has sparked new opportunities and aspirations.

“I started climbing competitively when I was seven after watching Ashima Shiraishi in a climbing competition,” she shared. “I started mountain biking to increase my endurance and leg power for dynamic jumps in climbing. It was then that my family and I discovered that I had great talent and skill for not just climbing but also cycling.”

While she had a passion for climbing, mountain biking presented a promising path forward.

But Isabela’s journey in the biking community hasn’t come without challenges. “Mountain biking is a male-dominated sport, especially in the USA, where competitors don’t always look like me,” she explained. “I am not only a female but also Latina and on the autism spectrum. So when I race, I remind myself of everyone I’m representing—females, Latinas, bilingual speakers, those who are neurodiverse, and most of all my family—those who are with me and those who are no longer with me.”

Isabela’s future is as bright as her achievements. She plans to attend the University of Colorado Boulder next fall to study architecture, coding, or linguistics. As she works toward the goal of representing Puerto Rico at the World Championships, her dream of competing in the Olympics remains in sight. She hopes her journey inspires others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Follow Isabela’s journey via Instagram.

T. Rose Foundation to Host 6th Annual Girlpreneur Expo in Detroit

Posted on October 18, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

Empowered Flower Girl is thrilled to support the T. Rose Foundation as it celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of young innovators at the 6th annual Girlpreneur Expo! On Saturday, October 26, girls from across Detroit and the Midwest will gather to showcase their businesses and talents, creating a powerful platform for youth entrepreneurship.

The expo provides an incredible opportunity for young business owners to network with peers, meet experienced entrepreneurs, and present their products to the public. From jewelry and fashion to baked goods, skincare, and books, these girls are turning their passions into thriving businesses. The event is not just about sales—it’s about fostering creativity, building confidence, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

A highlight of the day will be performances by talented young women, including She’s EmPOWERed alumna Kaci the Model—an anti-bullying advocate, rapper, and social media influencer. Kaci will bring her dynamic energy to the stage, alongside other amazing performers. Additionally, the foundation has some incredible prizes to give away, like tickets to the UniverSoul Circus.

Empowered Flower Girl will be at the expo, ready to connect with attendees and share information about our programs that empower youth and adults alike. Stop by our table to learn more!

Vendor spots are still available, and girls from all over the Midwest are encouraged to participate. For more details, visit https://www.t-rosefoundation.org/girlpreneur. Don’t miss this chance to support young girlpreneurs and celebrate their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit!

Saturday, October 26

Noon to 3 p.m.

Durfee Innovation Society, 2470 Collingwood St., Detroit

FREE to attend

She’s EmPOWERed: Nonprofit Founder Going with the “Flo” to Help Girls and Young Women

Posted on October 7, 2024October 7, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

At 19 years old, Amaya Waymon of Tallahassee, Fla., is already leaving a lasting mark in the fight for menstrual equity. As the founder of The Girl Flo, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing period products, education, and advocacy, Amaya is tackling period poverty head-on and breaking down the stigma surrounding menstruation.

The inspiration for The Girl Flo was born out of Amaya’s volunteer work.

“I decided to start The Girl Flo based on volunteering in the school’s pantry that I still volunteer for in college,” she shared. What began as a local effort to supply period products to those in need has evolved into a far-reaching mission to install period product dispensers in schools and public spaces, ensuring students don’t miss class due to a lack of access to essential items.

By advocating for and installing free period product dispensers in schools, Amaya’s organization is removing the barriers that keep students from fully participating in their education. Period poverty—the inability to afford or access menstrual products—affects millions, but thanks to The Girl Flo, more and more students can attend school without fear of embarrassment or disruption.

The organization also goes beyond product access, hosting period poverty awareness events and launching campaigns to normalize conversations about menstruation. “Our goal is to make periods no longer taboo,” Amaya explained. Through educational resources, The Girl Flo empowers young people to take control of their menstrual health and pushes for policy changes to create sustainable, long-term solutions for menstrual equity.

Looking to the future, Amaya’s passion for creating lasting change doesn’t stop with The Girl Flo. She has her sights set on other avenues of influence—planning to attend law school and eventually run for political office. Currently, she’s seeking to join the Emerge National Training Program, which prepares women for political leadership roles. Amaya’s drive to serve her community and advocate for underrepresented voices positions her as a future force in both policy and social justice.

Through her work with The Girl Flo, Amaya is proving that one young woman can lead the charge toward a more inclusive and supportive world. We can’t wait to see what she’ll achieve next!

Follow The Girl Flo via Instagram.

She’s EmPOWERed: Philadelphia Teen Turns Her Bullying Experience into a Mission to Help Others

Posted on August 12, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

Thirteen-year-old Aleemah Lanier is an anti-bullying advocate and author making waves with her message of kindness and resilience. She was recently featured on a CBS Philadelphia news segment and in Metro Kids magazine where she shared her inspiring journey which began after experiencing bullying at her new school.

Nationally, 1 in 5 students aged 12 to 18 face bullying each year, highlighting the need for strong support systems and resources for them.

Determined to make a difference, Aleemah co-wrote the book “Let’s Help the Bullying” with her mom, Edwena, offering valuable lessons on conflict resolution and positive thinking. The book, which also comes as an interactive coloring book, is designed to engage youth in understanding and combating bullying.

Aleemah’s advocacy doesn’t stop there. She, her mom and her sister all actively participate in and facilitate various impact initiatives, including a girls’ mentoring group. This dynamic trio is dedicated to uplifting youth in their community and spreading awareness about the importance of kindness and empathy.

As the school year begins, Aleemah’s message is more timely than ever. She wants to inspire other children and teens to be brave, stand up against bullying, and treat each other with compassion.

Aleemah’s aspirations extend beyond her advocacy work; she also dreams of becoming a doctor.

We are excited to watch her journey unfold and can’t wait to see the incredible impact she’ll continue to make. Aleemah truly embodies the spirit of being emPOWERed, and we’re honored to highlight her story.

Learn more about the Let’s Help the Bully movement via Instagram.

Empowered Flower Girl Founder & CEO to Receive Presidential Lifetime Achieve Award

Posted on August 2, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

Rasheda Kamaria Williams will be honored at Oct. 13 awards ceremony for her dedication to mentoring and empowering youth

Empowered Flower Girl is thrilled to announce that Rasheda Kamaria Williams, founder and chief empowering officer, has been selected to receive the 2024 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (PLAA). The award is the highest level of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, launched in 2003 to recognize “the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity.” The national award recognizes individuals whose service positively impacts communities nationwide and inspires others to take action.

“I am truly honored to be recognized for doing what I love – helping children and teens realize their power to make a difference in the world,” Rasheda shared. “Becoming a mentor 24 years ago transformed my life, and I’ve since dedicated myself to empowering and educating others to be there for our youth. I’ll continue to amplify the voices of mentors and mentees, recognizing those making an impact.”

Rasheda, along with other distinguished honorees, will be celebrated at the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards Ceremony on October 13. The event will be hosted by fellow PLAA recipient Shanithia Jhons, founder and CEO of 3Phases School of Etiquette. Tickets for the ceremony are available for $50. We invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and the incredible work being done to uplift our communities.

Visit https://3phases.info/be-our-guest-1 for tickets and to learn more about 3Phases School of Etiquette.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Enrollment Open for Girl World Peace Academy Course + Coaching Program

Posted on July 25, 2024 by empoweredflowergirl

Educators, mentors and other purpose-driven professionals encouraged to enroll

Watch this video for a behind-the-scene look at the course

Just ahead of the back-to-school season, Empowered Flower Girl is excited to announce that enrollment for Girl World Peace Academy (GWPA) – our virtual course + coaching program – is currently open. GWPA aims to equip educators, mentors, nonprofit founders and other youth advocates with the necessary tools and resources to create a more empathetic and kind world for youth, especially for our girls, young women and gender expansive tweens/teens.

“In the digital age, girls and young women face unprecedented challenges that demand immediate attention through targeted resources, programs, and initiatives,” said Empowered Flower Girl Founder and Chief Empowering Officer Rasheda Kamaria Williams. “We look forward to working with more educators and advocates who are passionate about making a lasting impact in the lives of young people who need our empathy and support more than ever.”

A 2021 CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed a disheartening reality: nearly 3 in 5 teen girls (57%) reported feeling “persistently sad or hopeless,” marking the highest rate in a decade. This trend underscores the urgent need for schools—where more than 95% of U.S. youth spend their days—to transform into supportive environments that prioritize mental health and social wellness alongside academic achievement.

Girl World Peace Academy offers practical tools and one-on-one coaching to help adult participants address challenges like digital harassment and social exclusion, which are increasingly prevalent among 21st century teens. The program also offers solutions as well as resources and support for individuals to launch new or elevate existing programs/initiatives.

I found the Girl World Peace Academy very helpful in my process of starting my program for girls” said Chantia Thompson of Good Vibz Yoga and Girlz Empowered. “With the help and information Rasheda provided, I feel more confident and motivated to get started. At first I was unsure of how to get start, how to get the kids engaged and keep them interested in the program. My one-on-one call let me ask questions, get tips and information and discuss possible issues that could come up.

For more information or to enroll, visit www.girlworldpeace.com/info. Receive an additional $50 off enrollment when you schedule a free discovery call.