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

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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. 

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

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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. 

Enrollment Open for Girl World Peace Academy Course + Coaching Program

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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.

She’s EmPOWERed: California Teen Activist Advocates for Women’s/LGBTQ Rights and Freedoms

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Empowered Flower Girl salutes Aria-Vue Daugherty this Women’s History Month!

Aria-Vue Daugherty, a powerhouse teen activist, is leading the charge for change in California. As co-chair of the Young Feminists Committee (an initiative of the Santa Barbara Women’s Political Committee), she advocates fiercely for women’s and LGBTQ rights, demonstrating the power of young voices. But her impact doesn’t stop there; Aria-Vue also serves as director of the California Young Feminist Party. Through her advocacy, Aria-Vue not only fights for equality but also demonstrates the immense power and potential of young leaders in shaping a more inclusive and just society.

“I was motivated to get involved after realizing that other young people were also passionate about the Equal Rights Amendment, but was surprised by the lack of YFP activity in California,” she explained. “I have been attempting to revitalize the movement in our state because I think it is extremely important to realize that Californian girls, women, and LGBTQ people are still put at risk by sexist legislation in other parts of the country despite our progressive state government.”

Aria-Vue, who identifies as queer, said the Young Feminist Party has been lobbying on local, state, and federal levels to get elected officials to realize the importance of the Equal Rights Amendment to the safety of women and queer people. 

Last spring, Aria-Vue and several young people were quoted in a Los Angeles Times article highlighting Solvang City Council’s decision to turn down a proposal to hang pride-themed banners downtown. During the council meeting, Aria-Vue shared students’ feelings about the banners. She said “a vast majority of them are absolutely unbothered by rainbows and would really appreciate representation for everyone and inclusivity for everyone.” 

She was also featured in the Winter 2024 edition of California Woman Magazine, a publication of the California Federation of Business and Professional Women.

“In California, in partnership with organizations like the YMCA Youth and Government’s Female Leaders in Power Caucus, we’ve been working on educational and legislative campaigns surrounding issues currently affecting American women, like child marriage and menstrual inequity/period poverty,” she noted.

Aria-Vue is on her way to a purpose-driven future. 

After high school, she will attend Harvard University, where she plans on studying government and computer science. “I want to go to law school, and work in regulation or public policy so that I can help make the internet a safer place for girls and women,” she said. 

Check out Aria-Vue’s work with the Young Feminist Party via Instagram.

Empowered Flower Girl Encourages Youth to Embrace Peer Mentoring During National Mentoring Month

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Listen to episode 23 “Teens Mentoring Teens” of the MindShift Power Podcast on January 16, 2024

Empowered Flower Girl, a social enterprise on a mission to transform the way young people relate to one another and themselves, is urging young people to consider the profound impact of peer mentoring as the nation observes National Mentoring Month. Founder and Chief Empowering Officer Rasheda Kamaria Williams encourages both adults and teens to engage in mentoring, emphasizing the transformative power of supportive relationships.

Empowered Flower Girl champions the idea that everyone, regardless of age, can make a meaningful difference as mentors. Peer-to-peer mentoring is a particularly effective way for young people to provide support and guidance to one another.

“Peer mentoring empowers young individuals to share experiences, offer insights, and create a supportive community,” Rasheda said. “It’s a reciprocal relationship that fosters personal growth and resilience, benefiting both the mentor and mentee.”

Empowered Flower Girl invites youth and youth advocates to tune into the MindShift Power podcast with Fatima Bey on January 16, when Rasheda will discuss the vital role of mentors in the lives of 21st century teens. The podcast episode explores the benefits of mentoring relationships, highlighting the positive impact they have on personal development, goal-setting, and navigating challenges.

Interested in adding mentoring to your program offerings? Empowered Flower Girl offers training for organizations and associations as well as individuals who desire to make a difference through mentoring. Email rkamaria@empoweredflowergirl.com for more information.

Empowered Flower Girl Seeks Submissions for She’s EmPOWERed Program Recognizing Outstanding Young Changemakers, Entrepreneurs and Social Impact Leaders

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Empowered Flower Girl, a social enterprise on a mission to transform the way young people relate to one another and themselves, is accepting submissions for its She’s EmPOWERed program. The initiative aims to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of girls, young women and gender-expansive youth ages 5 to 25 who are making a positive impact in their communities and the world.

Since the program’s launch in 2020, She’s EmPOWERed has highlighted the achievements of 30 remarkable female-identifying changemakers. Young people have been recognized in diverse fields, including entrepreneurship, non-profit leadership, literature and positive social media influence.

“She’s EmPOWERed serves as a platform to amplify the voices of young visionaries and inspire others to make a difference,” said Rasheda Kamaria Williams, youth empowerment speaker, author and founder/chief empowering officer for Empowered Flower Girl. “We are inspired by 21st century teens and tweens who are challenging stereotypes, breaking down barriers, standing up and using their power for good.”

In addition to the She’s EmPOWERed program, Empowered Flower Girl has facilitated youth empowerment initiatives like the Be the Impact Virtual Summit, which showcases and celebrates young people making or aspiring to make positive contributions to society as well as helps them discover their passion for community service.

She’s EmPOWERed nominations are accepted year-round from those residing in the United States and Canada. Youth selected receive recognition via social media, empowering swag and an opportunity to join Empowered Flower Girl’s alumni network.

Interested in being featured or know someone who should? Email rkamaria@empoweredflowergirl.com or complete the questionnaire at https://bit.ly/shesempoweredform. Parental consent is required for individuals under the age of 18. Empowered Flower Girl reserves the right to reject incomplete or irrelevant submissions. Companies interested in sponsoring swag bag items are encouraged to email us.

How to Help Your Teens Make Healthy Choices and Build Resilience

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By Laura Pearson

Parenting a teenager can be tricky. Your child is gaining independence and going out into the world on their own. You want to protect them while also giving them the freedom they crave. By teaching your teens how to make healthy choices, you can trust that they’ll stay safe. You also want to give your child the tools they need to nurture resilience, so they can navigate life’s challenges more easily. The below pointers can help you prepare them for the world.

Teach them how to prepare healthy meals

Good nutrition is important for growing teens. Get your child invested in their own health by learning how to make healthy meals together. BBC Good Food has a roundup of recipes specifically for teen chefs that are delicious and easy to prepare. Since teens love to snack, make sure there are healthy choices available. Instead of chips and soda, for example, encourage them to chow down on nuts, fruit, or smoothies.

Help them find a form of exercise they love

Regular exercise is another essential component of good overall mental and physical health. Encourage your teen to try out different sports, from track to basketball, to see what they enjoy. Simply taking a walk together is another option. If your neighborhood isn’t ideal for walking, check out pedestrian-friendly areas online. You can scope out the “walk score” for various locations. Target areas with a walk score of 70 or more.

Encourage them to find ways to tackle stress

Raising resilient teens requires more than paying attention to their physical health. You also want to consider your child’s mental health. Create a communicative space at home where they can share their feelings. Also, encourage your teen to create their own mental health toolkit for dealing with stress. For example, they might try activities like meditation to build resilience. Finally, if your teen is struggling with mental health, turn to a professional.

Talk to them openly about drugs and alcohol

Many teens experiment with alcohol and drugs as they get older. This can be worrisome for parents. By creating a non-judgmental space to discuss these issues, you can help your child stay safe. Family Lives offers tips for parents who want to talk to kids about substance use. They recommend staying calm, being supportive, and creating a two-way dialogue. Remember, your child’s safety is the number one priority.

Discuss your child’s future education with them

It’s never too early to talk about your child’s educational aspirations. Find out what career paths they’re considering and discuss what educational paths those require. You can also help set a good example by pursuing your own educational dreams. For example, if you want to work with kids, a bachelor’s in education lets you work with elementary-aged and pre-school-aged kids. Online degrees like this one are ideal for busy parents.

Find ways for your teen to connect with the community

A sense of community can go a long way in helping teenagers feel confident and secure as they navigate the world. Look for opportunities for teens to connect with others, from team sports to volunteer activities. Online communities like Empowered Flower Girl can also be a great outlet for teens looking to connect. Teenagers may be more open to talking to other people who aren’t their parents, so it’s important they have their own community

Raising teenagers is full of challenges. As a parent, you can gain peace of mind by giving your kids the tools they need to build resilience and make smart, healthy choices. The above tips can help.

For more resources to help build resilient teens, visit the blog.

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

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

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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

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.

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