She’s Empowered: How Adi Jane Is Inspiring Kindness One Pop Tab at a Time

When 9-year-old Adi Jane was diagnosed with brain cancer in October 2024, her world changed overnight. Between treatments and hospital visits at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, she and her family found comfort and care at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH). For six weeks, RMH became their home away from home.

During her stay, Adi noticed aluminum pop tabs being collected throughout the house. Curious, she learned that the tabs are recycled, and the proceeds help fund RMH programs for families like hers. Inspired by this simple yet powerful act of giving, Adi set out to collect as many pop tabs as she could. What began as a small goal (to fill one container) quickly grew into a heartfelt mission.

With the support of her family, friends, schools and community, Adi collected nearly 400 pounds of pop tabs in just two months, raising approximately $500 for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Her generosity and determination didn’t stop there. Now, she’s dreaming even bigger. She has a goal to break the world record by collecting 4,000 pounds of pop tabs in a single year.

“I hope the Ronald McDonald House gets some amazing things for the kids and be able to have many families stay there!” Adi says.

Adi’s mission is about more than pop tabs; it’s about love and the power of giving back. Even while bravely facing her own health challenges, she’s inspiring others to find ways to make a difference, no matter how small the gesture may seem. Every pop tab she collects represents a moment of hope and a reminder that kindness truly adds up.

When she looks to the future, Adi dreams of becoming a veterinarian or a teacher. Those careers reflect her deep compassion and love for both animals and people.

Through her heart, courage and commitment to helping others, Adi Jane is turning her challenges into a powerful movement rooted in generosity and empathy. She’s collecting pop tabs and hope, one tiny piece at a time.

Follow Adi Jane’s journey on Facebook.

She’s EmPOWERed: Meet Dalise and Dalia – Sisters on a Mission with a Passion for Fashion

Picture this: two sisters who dream big, help each other, and love to create. That’s Dalise and Dalia – better known as the Real Fashion Sisters. Their adventure started with an idea, a pen, and a passion for fashion.

 

The duo first made their mark as co-authors of The Fashion Sisters: A Fashion Dream, a children’s book that quickly captured the hearts of young readers. Their debut was followed by a second title, The Fashion Sisters: Birthday Bash, and soon after, a clothing line created especially for girls and a fashion consulting venture.

 

For Dalise, 15, and Dalia, 11, the impact of their work is most visible in the joy they bring to young girls. “We see that our books are making a difference every time a girl comes up to our table and excitedly wants to get the book,” they shared. One of their most rewarding experiences has been seeing readers dress up as characters from their stories for school character days – a moment that affirmed just how meaningful their creations have become.

 

The sisters’ author journey is just beginning. With college on the horizon, they are committed to balancing their education with entrepreneurship. Their vision for the future includes exploring new ways to grow the Real Fashion Sisters brand.

 

Dalise and Dalia are trailblazers showing girls everywhere that dreams are worth pursuing and that sisterhood, creativity, and determination can turn those dreams into reality.

 

Learn more about the Real Fashion Sisters and purchase their book at https://realfashionsisters.com. Follow them on Instagram

“EmPOWERed and On Purpose”: Celebrating 15 Years of Impact

This month marks a powerful milestone for Empowered Flower Girl — our 15-year anniversary! July has always held special meaning for me. Not only is it my birthday month, but it’s also the month I officially launched Empowered Flower Girl with a mission to transform the way young people relate to themselves and each other.

After what I’ve come to recognize as my year of completion — a year filled with growth and healing — this new season feels especially aligned and filled with possibility. I’m stepping boldly into this chapter with renewed purpose and vision.

I’m honored to have recently shared my founder story, “EmPOWERed and On Purpose,” in the July edition of She Wins Magazine. I want to thank Hanna Olivas and Adriana Luna of She Rises Studios for providing such an inspiring platform for women to share their stories. Their commitment to uplifting women through powerful, purpose-driven publications is something I deeply admire.

As we celebrate 15 years of empowering youth, championing sisterhood, and helping individuals and organizations make a difference in their communities, I’m filled with gratitude. This journey has been nothing short of POWERful.

Thank you for your support and positive energy.

Sincerely,

Rasheda Kamaria Williams

Founder & Chief Empowering Officer

Empowered Flower Girl

She’s EmPOWERed: Ranyah Bullock aka “The Scholarship Enthusiast” is Helping Students Level Up

As the cost of higher education continues to climb, students across the country are searching for tuition money along with their purpose. They’re looking for guidance, access, and opportunity. And Ranyah Bullock has got their back. 

The 21-year-old Detroit native is the founder of Next Level Execution, a growing digital movement designed to equip HBCU students with the resources, tools and motivation they need to succeed in college and beyond. Fueled by her own journey, Ranyah is helping students not only afford school but also maximize the experience.

Known by many as “the scholarship enthusiast,” Ranyah built her platform to share the very tools, scholarships, internships and leadership opportunities she once searched for herself. She was able to secure $80,000 in just 11 months. 

“I’ve been that student—hungry for success, but not always sure where to look or who to ask,” she said. Now, she’s become the go-to resource she once needed.

Through her platform, Ranyah has helped thousands of students access more than just financial aid. She’s opened doors to leadership programs, campus events and industry connections. Many students have secured over $10,000 in funding thanks to resources she’s posted. Her work also includes digital tools and planners that help students stay organized and on track during the academic year.

Next Level Execution is a movement with real-world impact. 

On her HBCU campus at Delaware State University, Ranyah has led in-person activations that reached more than 500 students. Her workshops and one-on-one guidance have connected students directly with career services and empowered them to take control of their college experience.

Now, as she prepares for graduation, Ranyah’s vision is expanding. She plans to enter the field of corporate social responsibility, focusing on community impact and philanthropy. Her goal? To help companies give back in meaningful ways, especially to underserved communities.

Whether online or on campus, Ranyah Bullock is showing what it means to be emPOWERed!

Connect with Ranyah via Instagram

She’s EmPOWERed: Shamere Duncan Reps Her City and Creates Community Along the Way

Detroit’s resilience, passion and can-do spirit have all shaped Shamere Duncan into the changemaker she is today. At 21, she is a Business Administration student at Wayne State University and making a significant impact as the founder of She So Detroit and as the Youth Affairs Engagement Coordinator for the City of Detroit. Her love for the city fuels her passion and her mission to empower women and youth, ensuring they recognize their strength, potential and ability to succeed.

She So Detroit is more than a brand — it’s a movement. At its core is the Detroit Butterfly, a symbol of growth and resilience. “Like the butterfly, we believe in transformation—helping women and young people in Detroit navigate their journey from struggle to strength, from dreaming to doing,” Shamere said. “It represents the beauty that emerges when women and youth in Detroit are given the tools, the space, and the belief to grow into their fullest potential.”

Shamere’s vision is to create spaces where Detroit women’s voices are amplified, their stories honored, and their dreams nurtured. Simultaneously, she is committed to uplifting the next generation, providing mentorship and opportunities to help youth see their limitless possibilities.

Through storytelling, community events, and more, She So Detroit is shifting narratives and fostering empowerment. Shamere believes that when women and youth in Detroit are given the tools, support, and belief they need, they can soar. 

Looking ahead, she envisions expanding She So Detroit to create an even greater impact. She plans to deepen her commitment to philanthropy, growing mentorship programs and initiatives that support young people in their journey. 

“I want to create spaces where Detroit’s youth can dream big, see their potential, and know they have the tools to succeed,” Shamere said.

Follow the She So Detroit movement via Instagram

Fostering a Lifelong Love of Learning in Children: Tips for Parents & Caregivers

By Laura Pearson

In today’s fast-paced world, nurturing a child’s love for learning has become a pivotal challenge for parents and educators alike. As digital distractions abound and attention spans dwindle, the quest to maintain a child’s innate curiosity and passion for discovery appears more daunting than ever. However, cultivating an environment that celebrates creativity, encourages self-recognition, and promotes mindful learning can transform this challenge into a rewarding journey.

Creating a Home Learning Space

Creating a special learning nook at home can be a game-changer in nurturing your child’s creativity and curiosity. Designate a spot solely for educational activities, helping your child mentally associate this area with learning and exploration. Whether it’s a cozy corner or a dedicated desk, a well-organized space encourages focus and provides easy access to essential materials, fostering an environment ripe for discovery. Add vibrant colors and interactive objects to further stimulate imagination and inquisitiveness.

Acknowledging and Celebrating Success

Helping your child acknowledge their own successes can significantly boost their intrinsic motivation, sustaining a lifelong love for learning. Encourage your child to set personal goals and celebrate when they achieve them. This boosts their self-esteem and helps them develop skills like goal setting and self-awareness. Create an environment where they regularly reflect on their progress, nurturing their ability to independently reward themselves. Involving them in deciding the rewards can make the process more engaging and self-directed, further supporting their educational journey.

Empowering Children with Hands-on Learning

Organizing regular family activities that involve hands-on learning can be a fun and effective way to nurture curiosity and critical thinking in children. Activities like cooking together teach practical skills while introducing concepts such as measurements and nutrition. Gardening offers lessons in biology, patience, and responsibility, while building simple machines encourages creativity and problem-solving. These shared experiences not only strengthen family bonds but also make learning engaging and interactive, helping children to develop a love for discovery and experimentation.

Earning a Degree to Lead by Example

By nurturing your own curiosity and enthusiasm for education, you set a powerful example for your children. If you’ve been putting off getting a degree, pursuing an online degree offers the flexibility to balance aspirations with responsibilities. For example, exploring online accounting degree programs equips you with essential skills in areas like managerial accounting and estate taxation, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning to your children. As you engage in your educational journey, your kids observe the value of intellectual growth, positively influencing their academic pursuits.

Incorporating Daily Mindful Moments

Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines can nurture your child’s love for learning by encouraging them to be present. Make everyday activities, like walking or cooking, opportunities for mindful engagement, helping children focus on their senses and thoughts. Utilize prompts to remind them to remain grounded, fostering curiosity about their surroundings. Embrace simple mindfulness practices during routine tasks, such as being aware of sensory experiences while brushing teeth, to develop a habit of thoughtful observation.

Unlocking Curiosity Through Questions

Encouraging your child’s curiosity can be effectively achieved by incorporating open-ended questions into your interactions. Questions starting with “why” or “how” invite your child to explore ideas and express their thoughts more freely, fostering deeper engagement with learning. Ask questions like “What do you think will happen if…?” or “Why do you believe that?” to stimulate critical thinking and boost their confidence in sharing unique perspectives.

Engaging with Interactive Online Platforms

To preserve and nurture your child’s enthusiasm for learning, explore online educational platforms designed to provide interactive and engaging activities. These platforms offer engaging lessons with gamified elements, making learning feel like play. They use quizzes and interactive lessons to captivate young learners, turning study time into a fun, competitive experience. The key is to find platforms that emphasize hands-on participation, keeping children intrigued and active in their learning process.

By weaving curiosity, creativity, and mindfulness into the fabric of everyday life, you’re not just laying the groundwork for academic success but fostering resilient minds and open hearts. Each step you take is a step towards unlocking endless possibilities. Let your home be a sanctuary of discovery, where both you and your child revel in the shared joy of learning.

Discover how you can live powerfully and make a difference with Empowered Flower Girl. Learn about our impactful workshops and resources that transform relationships and combat bullying.

About the author:

Laura Pearson is the founder of Edutude and is passionate about teaching the younger generation. Edutude was built to share resources on how to keep children engaged and in love with learning.

Image: Designed by Freepik

EmPOWERing Events & Opportunities

Workshop flyer 2 (3)This fall, Empowered Flower Girl is gearing up for a season of powerful events and opportunities!

In September, we’re supporting Attendance Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of students being present and engaged in school.

As we transition into October, we’ll join the movement for Bullying Prevention Month, raising awareness about the impact of bullying and empowering young people to stand up for themselves and others.

October also brings the International Day of the Girl, a global celebration dedicated to uplifting girls and gender-expansive youth, aligning with our mission to foster sisterhood and self-empowerment.

We invite you to get involved and make a difference! Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

 NATIONAL

September

  • Attendance Awareness Month – Every September, Attendance Awareness Month is observed to encourage regular school attendance which essential for academic success. Show up. Be present and have a great year!

DETROIT AREA

Friday, September 27

Empower Her Shine Gala  – Presented by Me, Myself, and I Teen Organization. Learn more and get tickets here.

NATIONAL

October

Bullying Prevention Month – A month-long event, Bullying Prevention Month aims to prevent childhood bullying and promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.

Friday, October 11

International Day of the Girl – Observed annually on October 11, International Day of the Girl is a key global moment on which to celebrate girls everywhere, amplifying their voices, actions and leadership.

DETROIT AREA

Saturday, October 12

All Girls Matter Conference – Presented by America’s Big Sisters Foundation. Learn more about the AGM conference tour at www.americasbigsisters.com.

Sunday, October 13

Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards  – Presented by 3 Phases School of Etiquette. Learn more and get tickets here.

Saturday, October 26

Girlpreneur Expo – Presented by the T. Rose Foundation. The event is free to attend. Girl bosses under 18 can register for vendor tables for only $30. Learn more here.

Tuesday, October 29

Giant Step Teen Conference – Presented by Wayne State University’s Merrill Palmer Skillman Institute and brings teenagers together from diverse backgrounds to discover all they have in common. Learn more at www.mpsi.wayne.edu/outreach/teen-conference.

She’s EmPOWERed: Virginia Tween is a Champion for Mental Health 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

This month, Empowered Flower Girl celebrates the incredible work of compassionate changemakers who are using their time, talent and treasure to champion the cause of mental health. Individuals like Mila M., a Virginia tween on a mission to provide tools and resources to her peers who could use a little positive energy.

After seeing a need for mental health support and resources for girls in her community, *12-year-old* Mila applied for a microgrant as part of the #BlackGirlJoyChallenge, an initiative of the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium. With this initial support, she started assembling carefully curated packages (or mental health boxes) filled with items designed to promote wellness and self-care. 

“I quickly realized how important this was and decided to grow it into a non-profit,” Mila shared. “It is important to give Black girls tools to address their mental health because they often do not talk about their mental health due to stigma.”

Mila, who has faced her own battles with mental health, is attuned to the disparities in how mental health is perceived, particularly within the Black community. Through MH Boxes, Mila is breaking down barriers and providing a safe space for young Black girls to make self-care a priority. Each box contains resources and activities to encourage self-expression, mindfulness, and emotional well-being.

Mila’s outreach efforts have been recognized by media outlets and organizations throughout Virginia. In April, she was honored as a Chesterfield Community Champion and featured in a CBS news segment highlighting her delivery of 188 “MH Boxes” to Communities In Schools of Richmond.

As we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, Mila reminds us all of the importance of supporting and uplifting underrepresented voices, especially when it comes to mental health.

Keep up with and support Mila and MH Boxes via Instagram

*At the time we wrote this feature, Mila was 12. As of May 8, Mila is officially a teen! Happy Birthday.

She’s EmPOWERed: Calgary Teen Has a Heart of Gold

Although she’s only 14 years old, Marigold Mioc has spent nearly a decade dedicated to supporting and championing causes in her community and beyond. 

It all started in 2015 when she founded Marigold’s Heart Garden. Her intention was to sell flower headbands at local markets to fund a trip to Paris. 

However, her family’s plans were canceled after a series of terrorist attacks in the country that same year. After hearing the news of the attacks and learning of other world events, like the Syrian refugee crisis, Marigold had an idea to help others. 

She used the money she earned from Marigold’s Heart Garden to help sponsor a family from Syria to come to Canada and used additional earnings to support other global causes.

In 2018, Marigold took a leadership trip to Kenya and helped build a dorm for students while there. She also fundraised and helped support a student to attend school for two years. 

Recently, she started an initiative to create care packages for young people who are transitioning out of the foster care system. The care packages will include hygiene products, journals, gift cards and other items inside of a carry-on suitcase. A pamphlet with local resources will be included in each package. 

She was awarded a $2,000 grant from the Calgary Youth Foundation to get started. 

A Life of Service

Since 2015, Marigold’s Heart Garden has raised over $15,000 and has supported numerous individuals and initiatives in Canada and around the world. Marigold has also participated in international programs and been an ambassador for numerous organizations, including the United Way of Calgary and Gems for Gems, an organization committed to ending the cycle of domestic abuse by focusing on the economic recovery and empowerment of survivors. 

She is the recipient of a 2021 Alberta Council for Global Cooperation Top 30 under 30 Award, 2021 Humanitarian Award from IdealMe Enrichment Foundation and 2019 Diana Award, among others. 

Marigold’s dream is to attend Harvard University where she hopes to study medicine. Her ultimate goal is to work with foster children who have medical needs.

With a heart of gold and empathy for others, Marigold is the epitome of emPOWERed. We salute her and wish her continued success!

Learn more and connect with Marigold’s Heart Garden:

Instagram

In the News:

https://calgarycitizen.com/p/calgary-teen-italy

https://hundred.org/en/articles/hundred-youth-ambassador-marigold-mioc-meets-malala

Empowering Teens Through Service

April is National Volunteer Month and people of all ages can become catalysts for change and make an impact that lasts a lifetime. Young people, especially, can benefit from volunteering and engaging in community service. 

Giving Back Makes an Impact for Youth 

Volunteering is a great way to get teens and young adults involved and make a difference. There are many benefits of volunteering, including developing new skills, building self-confidence, and making new friends.

“Volunteering can be a great way to explore interests and find out more about the causes you care about,” said Rasheda Kamaria Williams, founder and chief empowering officer for Empowered Flower Girl. “You can learn more about yourself and the world around you, while also helping others.”

From local schools, libraries, hospitals, and other nonprofit organizations – there are  many different types of volunteering opportunities available for young people right in their communities.

“You can also get involved with national or international organizations that work on issues that you’re passionate about,” Rasheda added. 

How to Get Involved 

There are many ways for young people to get involved in volunteering opportunities. Here are a few ideas:

1. Check with your local community center, library, or recreation center. Many of these organizations offer volunteer opportunities for teens.

2. Contact your city or county government offices. Many cities and counties have programs that allow young people to volunteer in their community.

3. Look for volunteer opportunities at local schools or after-school programs. Many schools offer opportunities for students to help out in their community.

4. Ask family and friends if they know of any volunteering opportunities in your area. They may know of something that you didn’t know about!

5. Use the internet to search for volunteer opportunities in your area. There are many websites that list different types of volunteering opportunities.

By combining volunteer work with school-based activities, students can gain invaluable life experience while challenging themselves to do more good in their local communities. Not only does volunteering provide guidance for teens as they develop key skills such as communication and leadership – it also conveys an important message about helping others that will stay with them for life.

Empowered Flower Girl is a social enterprise on a mission to help transform the way young people relate to one another and themselves. Our ultimate goal is to help them live above life’s drama to make a powerful difference in the world. Each month, Empowered Flower Girl showcases young people giving back to their communities and the world through our She’s EmPOWERed program. We also host the Be the Impact Summit aimed at helping young people be strategic about community service. Learn more at www.empoweredflowergirl.com