Why She Needs a Supportive Community
I am the proud grandmother of an extremely bright and curious 13-year-old girl, and yes, I’m a little biased when it comes to her! But I do worry about her confidence and her ability to navigate a world that, all too often, still isn’t a level playing field for women. I want her to live her best life and feel empowered to unleash her voice—knowing her thoughts and dreams are worthy of attention and respect.
How can I do that alone? The answer is simple—I can’t! She needs a community: a supportive network of like-minded young women, mentors, and role models who can help her find her voice and grow her confidence as they all navigate their journeys together.
“The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.”
COCO CHANEL
Finding Resources to Inspire and Empower
One incredible resource for young girls like her is Dream It, Be It: Career Support for Girls. This program provides girls with valuable tools, guidance, and inspiration. As Soroptimist puts it, “Through education and access to role models, girls will be empowered to pursue their career goals and reach their full potential.”
Confidence-Building Activities
Beyond programs like Dream It, Be It, there are many ways to support a young girl’s journey. Encouraging her to join clubs or activities that build leadership skills, such as debate clubs or STEM programs, can provide her with outlets to explore her interests and grow comfortable with self-expression. Simple activities like journaling can help her clarify her own thoughts and dreams. By exploring her own voice through creativity, she builds confidence in her unique perspective.
The Power of Role Models and Mentorship
Role models are invaluable. When girls see women who have followed their passions, spoken their minds, and achieved success in different fields, they gain a sense of possibility for their own lives. Mentors, whether teachers, family members, or coaches, provide personal guidance, answering questions and offering encouragement in ways that shape confidence.
How can her community give her the confidence to unleash her voice? First and foremost, I will be her #1 fan, confidant, and supporter! I can also ensure she builds the confidence needed to create a community that shares her dedication. Is it difficult to do? Not at all. After all, there’s already a strong network of confident, empowered young women ready to take on the world—their decision to take action already firmly rooted in their young minds.
Taking Action: The Role We Can All Play
Do you have a young woman in your circle you want to cheerlead as she unleashes her voice? Start today—you won’t regret it. Just think of the incredible things we can accomplish together, as women!
Tina Cranford is a retired financial services manager living in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. She lives happily surrounded by her girls—a granddaughter and four fur babies.