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There are so many things that the world needs. One of the most important is you. You have the ability to make this world a better place. Sure you’re young and not yet eligible to hold most political offices, but politicians aren’t the only folks who make a difference. You can make an important contribution to this planet even as a teenager.

When I was a child, I’d heard adults say things like “children should be seen and not heard.” Get real!

You have the power to change the world and all it takes is the courage to speak up for yourself and your community. If you are passionate about an issue, don’t be afraid to take action.

Give and receive

As we move into the holiday season, think about what you can do to make it a joyful time for others. Some say it is better to give than receive. I believe that when you give, you also receive. Studies (real ones from psychologists and other official folks) have found that people who do for others are much happier in life. Additionally, students who are active in their communities and those who volunteer their time do better in school.

There are numerous ways to give back. Organizations always need money, but if your allowance and part-time job don’t afford you the opportunity to be philanthropic, consider volunteering your time for a worthy cause.

Passion and purpose

Volunteer with organizations that reflect the issues and activities you care about the most. Are you an animal enthusiast? Many animal shelters need help with clerical work and cleaning. Passionate about saving the planet? Start a “green” program at your school or pitch in to clean up a neighborhood park.

There are thousands of causes, charities and issues in which to get involved. Websites like Idealist.org and Volunteermatch.org are great resources to help you find opportunities that touch, move and inspire you to take action.

My gift to you is this blog entry. Hopefully it empowers you to pay it forward and make this holiday season one to remember.

Becoming a multimillionaire or launching a profitable business enterprise was once seen as something that people did in their 30s and 40s. Now, more and more teens are starting successful corporations, small businesses and social ventures.

Internet entrepreneurs like Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg or What Ever Life’s Ashley Qualls, who launched her site at 17, are proof that you don’t have to wait until you graduate college – or high school for that matter – to pursue your passion. And these days, you don’t have to do it alone. There are numerous organizations that offer training to aspiring moguls.

The Young Entrepreneur Series (Y.E.S.), based in the Detroit area, recently announced its new Future CEO Leaders program designed to teach teen girls about business, leadership, philanthropy and social responsibility through self-empowerment. Registrations are being accepted for the six-month program through Oct. 15, 2011.

Empowered Flower Girl spoke with global business consultant and Y.E.S. Executive Director Tonya McNeal-Weary about how she got started and how she’s helping girls realize their entrepreneurial potential.

What was your first job ever?

My first job was actually working for my cousin as a receptionist at a tire repair shop.  I was 18 years old.

When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

I realized I wanted to become an entrepreneur and run my own business when I was about 20 years old.  I have always liked the idea of being my own boss.

Who was your business mentor growing up?

I didn’t have any formal mentoring relationships growing up; however I had role models whom I looked up to.  Having a mentor or a positive role model can be very helpful as you are deciding on career options, or maybe looking to decide what path to take for your future.

Teens hear every day that when they graduate jobs will be hard to find, what can a young person do now to prepare for their future career?

The reality is that jobs are more scarce than ever before – making the few jobs that are available more competitive.  I would encourage young people today to invest in a good college education, seek additional opportunities including internships, study abroad programs, and learning a foreign language.  This would make them more competitive in today’s job market.  I would also encourage young people to turn their unique talents and hobbies into a business of their own.  Help to create jobs and rebuild our economy.

What advice would you give to a girl thinking of starting a business or nonprofit?

I would advise her to never give up on her dream.  Starting a business is not easy.  You have to have drive and dedication.  Having a good mentor can really be beneficial as well.  Definitely take advantage of various resources available to entrepreneurs. There are many agencies and organizations that offer free and low-cost services to assist new entrepreneurs.  There are risks that come with entrepreneurship but as with any other investment – the greater the risk, the greater the reward. 

Not in Detroit? Not a problem. There are numerous groups throughout North America that offer leadership training, tips, news and other resources for aspiring business owners. Google it! Or check out these sites:

Small Business Association – http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov/teens/

Entrepreneur Online – http://www.entrepreneur.com/tsu

Elevator Pitch – http://www.elevatorpitch2011.com/

Young Entrepreneur – http://www.youngentrepreneur.com/

Empowered Flower Girl invites you to visit our booth during the 2001 Metro Parent Education Expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25 at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Babies, kids, teens and grownups are invited to attend the free event. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to receive a special fans only gift at the expo.

Parents: Be sure to stop by our area to sign up for our e-list for exclusive promos, news and events.

Kids: Tell your parents to sign up for our e-list for your chance to spin-to-win cool prizes!

Spin-to-Win Sponsored Prize Providers

This is Why I ROCK Journal

This Is Why I ROCK is a journal by Bold Moves CEO Tanisha Bolden. The book gives young people an opportunity to express themselves, develop their character, and appreciate their accomplishments on a day-to-day basis. It promotes self-awareness by allowing youth to explore relationship influences, identifying and improving personality imperfections as well as putting the proper focus on setting and accomplishing goals. Visit www.boldmovesllc.com.

FREE Enrollment Certificate at Kumon of Royal Oak

Kumon is the world’s largest after-school math and reading enrichment program. Kumon unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. It allows students of all ages and abilities to build the skills necessary to have a richer, more successful educational experience. Visit www.kumon.com/royal-oak.

Empowered Flower Girl Clothing

Show your power in a fashionable t-shirt or sporty cami from Empowered Flower Girl. Our clothing inspires girls and young women to live powerfully. Visit www.shop.empoweredflowergirl.com.

Tara Michener Industries Book

TMI LLC offers books and accessories for children and teens that promote self-esteem, diversity and literacy. Founder Tara Michener is a youth advocate and author of the Who I am series and No Longer Besties: And Other Assorted Teenage Drama. Visit www.taramichener.com.

By Rasheda Kamaria

Girls can do anything. From sports and law enforcement to science and construction, women are making advances in fields once dominated by the fellas. But there is still work to be done. According to the U.S. government, women hold less than 25% of the nation’s jobs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Wayne State University in Detroit is reaching out to girls to increase their awareness and competence in related areas of study.

The College of Education’s GO-GIRL (Gaining Options-Girls Investigate Real Life) program, designed to promote interest in STEM related careers and to boost mathematics skills and confidence in seventh-grade girls, is accepting applications through Dec. 1, 2011, for the winter 2012 semester.

The 10-week Saturday program, hosted by the College of Education, will launch January 28 and culminate with graduation ceremonies April 28. GO-GIRL, which is held on Wayne State’s main campus, is free and open to a limited number of seventh-grade female students.

Elise Lowell, 18, is a GO-GIRL alumna and current honors program student at Wayne State. Lowell is studying biology and hopes to pursue a career in research and academia.

“GO-GIRL was an excellent introduction into the science fields,” said Lowell, a Grosse Pointe South High School graduate. “It was a great way to meet peers interested in the same subjects and get acquainted with Wayne State’s campus. The experience was definitely beneficial; even waking up early on Saturday mornings was helpful to set a precedent of being a hard working student.”

Parents and students interested in the program should visit http://www.gogirls.wayne.edu/ and download the application forms.

STEM related sites and resources for girls and women across the country:

National Girls Collaborative Project: http://www.ngcproject.org/

Girls In Tech: http://www.girlsintech.net/

Girls Go Tech (Girls Scouts): http://www.girlsgotech.org/default.asp

Zoey’s Room: http://www.zoeysroom.com/

Empowered Flower Girl is all about sharing positive, empowering and inspiring news with our fans, followers and friends. That’s why when we heard about the 2011 Girlapalooza, we just had to tell you about it. If you’re in southeast Michigan and looking for something cool and chic to do this weekend, head over to downtown Birmingham for fab and fun festivities that celebrate GIRLS!

Visit the Girlapalooza website for more information and to purchase tickets!

Local non-profit kicks off B8M with community events for teens and adults

DETROIT/ROYAL OAK – The Association for Youth Empowerment (AYE), a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to bringing transformational programs to schools and communities in southeast Michigan, announces the launch of the Bridging 8 Mile initiative to transform the way people relate to one another in the region.

On July 23 and 24, 2011, groups of everyday people, youth, community leaders, politicians and clergy will participate in two Community Challenge Day events designed to bridge Detroit and its surrounding suburbs, cities and towns. Challenge Day is an award-winning experiential program that has been featured on Oprah, MTV’s “If You Really Knew Me” and Tom Brokaw’s “Bridging the Divide” program.

“We are excited to kick off the Bridging 8 Mile initiative with two potentially life–changing events,” said Jean Ritok, AYE executive director. “The Challenge Day program through its creative, ground-breaking techniques has a spectacular track record of breaking down barriers between people and causing them to see each other with new eyes. Seeing others with new eyes is the doorway to new possibilities between people and between communities. It’s exactly what this region needs.”

Registration for the Bridging 8 Mile Community Challenge Day events is open to youth and adults 16 and older. Southeast Michigan community leaders are encouraged to attend.  

Bridging 8 Mile Community Challenge Day Events:

Saturday, July 23, 2011, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Boys and Girls Club of South Oakland County
1545 East Lincoln Ave
Royal Oak, MI 48067-3400

Sunday, July 24 2011, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

YouthVille Detroit
7375 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48202-3158

About Bridging 8 Mile

Bridging 8 Mile is an initiative developed by the Association for Youth Empowerment that is dedicated to transforming Detroit, its suburbs, its people and the way we relate to one another. Bridging 8 Mile was founded on the belief that when people unite for the greater good, positive change is inevitable. Our ultimate goal is to connect COMMUNITIES, inspire COMPASSION and take ACTION. For more information call the Bridging 8 Mile hotline at 313-226-1626 or visit www.bridging8mile.org.

About Association for Youth Empowerment

Founded in 2006, AYE is dedicated to challenging and empowering young people to create positive change. The organization partners with community members and organizations who share a common goal of eliminating social oppression and of fostering respect, acceptance and compassion in our schools and communities. Visit www.associationforyouth.org.

img class=”aligncenter size-medium wp-image-268″ title=”Bridging8mile-flyer” src=”https://empoweredflowergirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Bridging8mile-flyer-264×300.jpg” alt=”” width=”264″ height=”300″ />

Social media monitoring advised

As summer vacation kicks into high gear and the new school year approaches, parents are advised to be mindful of their children’s social groups, especially those they interact with online. While tweens and teens may consider it snooping, Empowered Flower Girl CEO Rasheda Kamaria considers it conscious parenting.

“We’ve witnessed first-hand the affects of unmonitored children online,” said Kamaria, who leads the workshop Chica Chat ™ in an effort to combat drama, cyberbullying, teasing and cliques among middle and high school–aged girls. “With the increase in bullycide incidences, parents should be aware of and somewhat engaged in their children’s online activities.”

Bullycide, a term coined by authors Tim Field and Neil Marr to describe suicide attributable to the victim having been bullied, is a serious concern for schools and communities across the nation.

The best thing parents can do –Kamaria said – is have open dialogues with their children about their friends and even “frienemies” on and offline. “The new school year not only signals new lesson plans, it also welcomes new friends, new cliques and new challenges fitting in. Sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation and active listening for teens to open up and share their concerns, fears and aspirations.”

For parents seeking additional resources to prevent and address bullying, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers tools and resources at www.stopbullying.gov. For more information about Empowered Flower Girl, visit www.empoweredflowergirl.com.

Check out the Y.E.S. Leadership Camp – Register through May 27th

Michigan Association for Female Entrepreneurs (MAFE) will host its Young Entrepreneurs Series (Y.E.S.) Leadership Camp, a leadership development program for girls age 14 to 18.  The camp will take place July 10 – 13, 2011 at Howell Conference & Nature Center located in Howell, Mich.

Leadership Camp is open to girls in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb Counties. Registrations are due by May 27, 2011. 

http://www.youngentrepreneurseries.com/LeadershipCamp.html

Check out Empowered Flower Girl CEO Rasheda Kamaria in her May 13th column in B.L.A.C. magazine. Kamaria, who was bullied in middle school, gives a first-person account of the taunting, teasing and alienation and the impact it had in her life. She also shares how she overcame the drama to pay it forward to youth.