She’s EmPOWERed: Michigan Tween Working to Banish Bullying Before it Starts

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When 11-year-old Payton Pinkston faced cyberbullying, like most kids her age, she felt sad and hurt. But she didn’t let that experience keep her down. She used it as motivation to help others. As the founder of the Bully Patrol project, Payton is on a mission to stop bullying before it starts.

During National Bullying Prevention Month, a time dedicated to fostering awareness and encouraging action against bullying, Empowered Flower Girl proudly shines a light on the inspiring youth who refuse to remain silent in the face of adversity. 

“I started Bully Patrol last year because I experienced cyberbullying. I thought the kids that put me in a group message were my friends only to find out they were saying mean things about me. It was disappointing and hurtful,” Payton explained. “When I experienced cyberbullying, I knew what to do because I was always taught to speak up and let my mom or an adult know. But other kids may not know and are afraid. So that’s why I came up with Bully Patrol – to stop bullying before it starts.”

With unwavering determination, Payton uses her voice and experience as powerful tools for change. Fueled by empathy and compassion, Payton strives to eradicate bullying and cyberbullying – issues that affect so many young people worldwide. 

“When I came up with the name, I was thinking about the cartoon ‘Paw Patrol’ and my mom was like, “that’s a great name,” Payton noted. “My mom told me how she used to be a safety patrol when she was in school. So we put our ideas together and said Bully Patrol will be just like a safety patrol. We patrol the hallways. We patrol the bathroom. We patrol the lunch room. We patrol at recess and we will speak at different schools and in our community.”

Payton’s ultimate goal is to take Bully Patrol nationally and even globally. “I want to have a Bully Patrol Club in every school just like they had a safety patrol club,” she said. 

In addition to her work with Bully Patrol, Payton is an entrepreneur, actress, dancer, singer and model. The ambitious tween is not only working to banish bullying, but she’s also working the runway and the stage. 
Connect with Payton via Instagram.

She’s EmPOWERed: Meet Jazzlyn Rainey – An Artist with a Vision (and Mission)

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Jazzlyn Rainey is a gifted 18 year old using her creativity to showcase the beauty and splendor of Black girls and women. She is a self-taught artist, entrepreneur and creator whose work resonates deeply within her community. 

Through Jazzy Drew It, Jazzlyn crafts original custom art pieces that capture the essence of Black femininity in all its glory. Her motivation stems from the unwavering support of her father and community.

“I felt that I was ready for the world to hear my voice and see my art through my business,” she said. “What drives my creative journey as an artist and creator is creating the representation I wish I had growing up as a young Black girl.”

Jazzlyn’s creations are not limited to traditional mediums like canvas; she also prints her vibrant designs on vinyl and clothing such as shirts and hoodies – allowing people to wear their pride for all to see.

“I feel like my business is making a difference for others by showing people of color within my community that you can be and do anything you put your mind and heart into,” she explained. “I would like to make a difference for young Black girls who feel unheard and unseen; to let them know that they matter, they are loved and that they can shine and be great just like anybody else.”

Jazzlyn’s aspirations stretch far beyond mere aesthetics; they aim at leaving lasting impressions on those who come before and after her time. Her goal is to expand Jazzy Drew It on the east coast, where she currently resides as a Howard University student. Additionally, Jazzlyn is working on a short film called “An Ode to Black Women” which honors Black women and women of color who have not only supported her journey but also their communities as women, mothers, wives, aunties and as human beings. 

After college, Jazzlyn plans to travel globally to learn about other minority/unseen communities while pursuing a master’s degree at an art school overseas.

Learn more and connect with Jazzlyn:

Instagram

She’s EmPOWERed: Georgia Teen’s Passion for Positivity Inspires Others 

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With gloomy headlines dominating daily news and social media feeds, it can be a strain on our mental health. The negativity can cast a dark cloud that leads to sadness. 

But 13-year-old Lena Ford is shifting the narrative and focusing on the power of positivity.

As the CEO of Positively Lena, Lena is on a mission to inspire everyone she meets.

“I started Positively Lena (at 9 years old) because I saw so many negative things happening in the world,” she said. “I wanted to find a way to let people stay positive with a small but fashionable item they can always look at when they need a bit of positivity.”

Positively Lena combines Lena’s passions for art, fashion, and positive messages. The company offers a wide range of products including apparel, accessories, and stationery – all featuring positive messages, images and affirmations. These products are designed to remind young people of their worth and encourage them to stay optimistic even in challenging situations.

“We also offer workshops and events focused on building self-esteem and fostering a positive mindset,” Lena noted. “These workshops are tailored to different age groups and cover topics such as entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, creative writing, journaling, and positive self-talk.”

In addition to Positively Lena, Lena is also the co-founder of a non-profit, Kinship Family Initiative. The organization helps children in foster care or experiencing homelessness. Other programs that support youth in foster care include Arting 4 You, where Lena donates art kits and Embracing Their Roots, where she donates hair supplies.

“My plans for the future are to continue to grow Positively Lena and Kinship Family Initiative. I want to inspire others to give back to their communities and teach youth about entrepreneurship,” Lena said.

Support Positivity

When you purchase an item from Positively Lena, you’re not only getting a fashionable item, but you’re also helping a child have access to art supplies.

Connect with Positively Lena:

Instagram

Facebook

Positive thinking has a number of benefits for mental health and happiness. Empowered Flower Girl offers these tips on how to incorporate positive thinking into everyday life:

1. Make a point to notice the good things that happen each day, no matter how small. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in helping to shift your focus from the negative to the positive.

2. When you catch yourself having negative thoughts, make a conscious effort to reframe them in a more positive light. For example, instead of “I’m such a failure,” try telling yourself “I’m doing my best and I will get better with practice.”

3. Spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself and who have a positive outlook on life. These people will help “feed” your positive mindset and make it easier for you to maintain it.

4. Take care of your physical well-being by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating healthy foods. When your body feels good, it’s much easier for your mind to follow suit!

5. Practice gratitude by keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking a few moments each day to think about what you’re thankful for in your life.

Rasheda Kamaria Williams Named “Empowerment Enterprise Founder of the Year” by Acquisition International Magazine 

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Acquisition International Magazine (AI) has announced the winners of the eighth Influential Businesswoman Awards, which shine a light upon women who are a driving force for innovation, change, and empowerment. 

From interior design to holistic arts education, marketing specialists to business coaching, and much more, this year’s program is home to a fantastic number of women guiding and elevating their industries – for the sake of progression, efficiency, and equality.

Among the winners is Empowered Flower Girl Founder and Chief Empowering Officer Rasheda Kamaria Williams who received AI’s Social & Business Impact Award. She was also recognized as the 2023 Empowerment Enterprise Founder of the Year.

Awards Coordinator Jessie Wilson took a moment to comment on the success of the winners: “I applaud our winners for their tenacity, sincerity, and passion for their respective businesses and fellow human beings. Regardless of the challenges faced as women, these individuals have worked hard and risen to the top – so that they may influence and aid the rest of the world. Congratulations.”

Acquisition International prides itself on the validity of its awards and winners. The awards are given solely on merit and are awarded to commend those most deserving for their ingenuity and hard work, distinguishing them from their competitors and proving them worthy of recognition.

“It is an honor to be awarded alongside so many accomplished, powerful and talented women,” Rasheda said. “I will continue to uplift and support youth and youth advocates throughout North America and beyond so that they also have the tools and strategies to reach their full potential.”

To learn more about the award winners and to gain insight into the working practices of the “best of the best”, please visit the Acquisition International website where you can access the winners supplement.

Empowered Flower Girl Shares Tips to Avoid Drama and Live Your Best Life this Summer

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Summer break is on the horizon and there will be lots of time for teens and young adults to make memories (and mistakes). We want to ensure they’re making the most of their time and enjoying it.

Below are a few tips on what NOT to do to have a drama-free summer:

5. Get in an online fight with a celebrity.  We all love to voice our opinions about celebrities who do wild and obnoxious things, have bad hair days or overuse photoshop. But resist getting into a battle with celebrities, politicians or anyone who has a fanbase as dedicated as Beyonce’s. They sting. And they will come for you, boo. Have you seen “Swarm”?

4. Put your friends or family on blast publicly. Sure, best friends can disappoint us and sometimes our siblings can do jerky things. But, there is a better way to bring this to their attention. Instead of posting a shade-filled status update, pick up the phone, send an email or schedule a Zoom meeting. Just kidding on the Zoom meeting. But you really should talk it out.

3. Post incriminating pics or videos on Instagram or TikTok. This is one of the best ways to kiss your summer internship, college acceptance or job security good-bye. Even if everyone else is doing it, DO NOT post pics of drug use, private parts or illegal activity.

2. Make racist or homophobic posts and comments – anywhere. This one should be obvious but in the wake of what’s happened in the U.S. over the past few years, apparently it isn’t. People are losing their jobs and livelihoods. Think before you post, seriously. I always say, “what’s in my head doesn’t have to be said.” Making racist and homophobic comments is rude (first of all) and also mean. If you want to stay employed either change your thinking or don’t post your thoughts.

1. Do something productive. Of course this doesn’t follow the format of the other tips because you actually SHOULD engage in activities that inspire you and those around you. Kindness is the key to a kick-butt summer. Volunteer or advocate for a worthy cause, get a summer job or learn a new skill. Staying occupied will keep you out of trouble and give you a confidence boost.

So in conclusion, don’t be a jerk online, stay off the Internet when you’re in a crappy mood and overall, think before you Tweet or whatever you do.

Girl World Peace Graduates Making an Impact

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Meet the course alumni positively impacting the world

It’s been over two years since Empowered Flower Girl launched Girl World Peace Academy (GWPA). In such a short time, our dedicated alumni (from the U.S. and Canada) have made an immeasurable impact in their communities. These trailblazers are changing the world one step at a time with every girl they empower, every woman they inspire, and every life they touch.

From Michigan to South Carolina, we salute a few of our incredible alumni:

Chantia-4Chantia Thompson- Girlz Empowered

Chantia, who joined our very first cohort of amazing participants, is inspiring girls and women to be well. We’re excited to announce that this spring, Chantia is opening her first wellness center in the Detroit metro area! “Our mission is to offer a safe space for the community to heal and grow into their authentic self.”  Services will include healing circles, yoga, meditation, literacy programs, doula services and more.

Profile pic 2 - Tameka Citchen-SpruceTameka Citchen Spruce – My Girl Story Documentary

Since enrolling in GWPA, Tameka has been out in the community making connections and a difference. Her award-winning documentary, “My Girl Story,” is now available on Tubi and she works as co-director of a leadership program for BIPOC individuals with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities. “I was selected for NACDD’s Betty Williams Champion of Equal Opportunity Award and Unlock Her Potential Mentorship program with W. Kamau Bell as my mentor.” 

7DFC97D0-79D8-4282-A0C5-2A56C372EECE - Breaking Barriers (1)Porshe Colts – Breaking Barriers No Boundaries Inc

These days, Porshe and BBNB are creating valuable and memorable workshops for girls in the Columbia, S.C. area. On April 14,2023 the organization assisted in hosting the first annual college tour in the area for middle and high school girls. “It was all of the girls’ first time visiting a college campus and they loved it! We are looking forward to growth and more partnerships in the near future.”

About Girl World Peace Academy

Girl World Peace Academy is a self-guided online course + coaching for youth advocates of all backgrounds – from teachers and counselors to after-school program professionals and mentors.

This course is especially for you if:

  • You aspire to make a difference in the lives of girls and young women. 
  • Girls in your school or community face social or emotional challenges (bullying, peer pressure, trauma, etc.) that impact their ability to thrive.
  • You seek empowering and interactive tools and content that complement your current or future SEL, prevention or after-school programming.
  • You can use help getting the word out about the good you’re doing (to media, sponsors and potential participants)

Questions about the course or general questions about the youth empowerment space? Book a free discovery call with Rasheda. Learn more by visiting www.girlworldpeace.com/info. We’re currently enrolling for our spring/summer cohort. 

Empowered Flower Girl to Join Kiwanis International Convention this Summer

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Empowered Flower Girl is excited to travel to Minneapolis this summer for the 2023 Kiwanis International Convention, June 21-24. EFG Founder and Chief Empowering Officer Rasheda Kamaria Williams will join the roster of national speakers who will explore this year’s conference theme: Nurture the Future — exploring all the ways members can prepare young leaders for the future — and the impact they’ll make in the world.

Rasheda will present “Empowering 21st Century Teens” during the Kiwanis Launchpad session focusing on nourishing relationships and facilitate a workshop, “EmPOWERing 21st Century Teens: How to Inspire Intergenerational Empathy & Understanding.”

Additionally, Empowered Flower Girl will have a table in the convention exhibit hall. Learn more about our workshops and programs and purchase a copy of “Be Empowered: How to Live Above & Beyond Life’s Drama.”

If you’re going, be sure to stop by for swag! Visit the conference website at https://www.kiwanis.org/convention/2023-convention.

She’s EmPOWERed: Maryland Teens Demonstrate Why Representation Matters with #TheLittleMermaidChallenge

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When the trailer was released last year for Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid,” the Internet was flooded with videos showing overwhelmingly joyous reactions from African-American children and adults alike. The reactions to Halle Bailey (of R&B duo Chloe x Halle) being cast as Ariel illustrated just how crucial representation is.

For high school seniors Sydnie Chandler Monet, CEO and host of The Perfect Timing Podcast and Lexi P., CEO of Curlanistas, the May 26 release of the “Little Mermaid,” is not only an opportunity to see a representation of themselves on the big screen, but it also is an opportunity to give back in a big way.

 The two have teamed up for #TheLittleMermaidChallenge and are raising money through a GoFundMe page with a goal of taking 500 young Black girls from the DMV to see the film.

 A Girl with Curls and Ambition

“I believe there is so much power in representation,” said Lexi, 18. “When you see positive examples of someone who looks like you, it gives you the power and inspiration to dream. As a young girl, I remember not seeing many people who looked like me on TV or in movies. I know how that made me feel and question my worth. Representation encourages others to imagine themselves in situations and experiences they see in the media.”

The desire for representation is also what powered Lexi’s brand, Curlanistas, which started as a movement to complement her first book Curly Girls Love Your Curls. Lexi wanted to develop the brand to help girls like her with big curly hair.

“I wanted girls to embrace who they are – to love their hair and to feel empowered to wear their hair, big, bold and proud,” she said.

In August of 2017, Lexi did a soft launch of her Curlanistas haircare line at the world-famous Bronner Brothers Convention in Atlanta and sold out the first day.

A Purpose-Driven Influencer

As a social entrepreneur and founder of the non-profit Live Your Future Educated (LYFE), Sydnie is a proponent of representation and inclusivity. Her organization is ushering in a new generation of influencers, celebrities and innovators and offering a safe platform for them to share their inspiring stories.

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, she launched the Perfect Timing Podcast. “The podcast was established after the growing limitations of youth positivity on social media platforms,” Sydnie explained.

“The platforms without substance fueled my desire to make a change. It’s intentional for me to meet youth where they are by showing them how to absorb into the fabric of their own lives and see that their dreams are tangible.”

Nearly three years later, Sydnie has released 130 impactful episodes with more than 2,600 dedicated listeners.

High Aspirations Fuel the Future

As high school seniors, Lexi and Sydnie have big aspirations after graduation.

Lexi is looking forward to attending Morgan State University where she plans to study business. “I want to grow my hair care line and also start a non-profit for the youth,” she said. “My goal in life is to be a leader who has a positive impact on the world.”

Sydnie is looking forward to attending Howard University and studying strategic communications this fall. “I am so excited for this new chapter,” she said. “I have been prepared and molded for this moment as I approach high school graduation. I plan to continue growing the Perfect Timing Podcast and explore the opportunities that come with it.”

Keep In Touch

Lexi

Instagram

Facebook

Sydnie

Instagram

Facebook

Support #TheLittleMermaidChallenge at https://gofund.me/905699e8

She’s EmPOWERed: Young CEO and author helps kids understand finances

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Did you know that April is National Financial Literacy Month? It is. This year marks the 20th anniversary for the observance aimed at empowering individuals to improve their personal and household financial stability and success.

And although she’s nowhere near 20, Ahmenra Johnson is an expert in helping kids understand finances. The seven-year-old CEO and author has been in business since she was a toddler! 

At the age of three, Ahmenra’s mother decided that it was important for her to understand and have a firm foundation in financial literacy and entrepreneurship. 

“She said financial literacy and entrepreneurship are important to know to help me navigate the real world as I got older,” Ahmenra explained. “I had my very first board meeting at a Fortune 500 company and I am the owner of six businesses.”

That’s right. Ahmenra is an experienced CEO and she’s not even in middle school. 

In addition to running her companies (with the help of her mom), Ahmenra is the author of seven books that are part of “Noodle, The Astrogirl CEO Learning Series,” where the focus is on teaching children that there is no age requirement to own a business or to become an author.

“My Mother teaches me that at the root of every social interaction, there is financial literacy and/or entrepreneurship embedded in the experience. I like to learn how I can monetize what I learn in school,” Ahmenra added. “For instance, one of my businesses is my very own home school, Astrokid Academics LLC. I learn so much about financial literacy and entrepreneurship that I am able to use lessons from my very own learning series to help me understand how to be an effective entrepreneur.”

An “Astrokid” with Aspirations

Ahmenra isn’t only an author and business owner. She also is a competitive dancer, competitive swimmer and on her way to getting a black belt in Tang Soo Do Martial Arts. 

Her plan is to go to community college for engineering because she’s an aspiring astrophysicist. “Then, I am going to attend Juilliard for dance and while I am dancing, I want to train to be an Olympic swimmer, too. I have many goals that I am going to accomplish as I get older,” she concluded.

With her ambition, determination and passion, we have no doubt that Ahmenra will achieve these and other goals. We can’t wait to see it happen!

Connect with Ahmenra:

Instagram 

YouTube 

Visit www.astrokidacademics.org

Tips and Tricks for Students Who Want to Start a Business but Have Limited Funds

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Starting a business as a student can be a great way to get a head start on your career. The one drawback of being a young entrepreneur is that you may lack capital or startup funds. Don’t stress. Business ownership isn’t out of reach, even if you aren’t rolling in cash. Here are some tips and tools to help you start a business with little financial resources.

Explore Low-Cost Businesses

Research cost-efficient business models to minimize your need for startup capital.

  • Check out business ideas that don’t require a lot of cash, like web development or travel planning.
  • Skip the cost of hiring people by pursuing solopreneurship. Possible ideas range from freelance writing to coaching.
  • Avoid paying commercial rent with a home-based business model, like personal training or fixing broken electronics.

Get Creative When Finding Ways to Cut Startup Costs

Try these hacks for minimizing your financial needs as a young business owner.

Try a Diversity of Funding Options

Traditional bank loans are just one of the many options available when it comes to financing your business. Here are some alternatives.

Embrace Free and Low-Cost Promotional Tools

You don’t have to spend big bucks on fancy ads and marketing. Here are some affordable tools to help raise your business’s profile.

If you’re a cash-strapped student with limited capital, starting a business might seem out of reach. It doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re using royalty-free videos to market your business or planning a fundraising event, the above guide provides some pointers to help you get your entrepreneurial journey off on the right foot, even if you aren’t rich.

Empowered Flower Girl offers youth tools to live more powerfully. Be sure to follow our social media channels for positive news, funding opportunities and empowering events.