Empowering the Next Generation of Female Leaders
On Monday, over 50 enthusiastic young girls from Gadsden County and the surrounding Big Bend area gathered at the Leroy Collins Main Public Library for the inaugural ‘Girls Out Loud’ Career Exploration event. Hosted by the nonprofit organization Citizens for a Sustainable Future, this event was designed exclusively for 6th-grade girls to dive into a variety of career opportunities spanning healthcare, technology, and the arts.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
This event held special significance as it coincided with Women’s History Month, offering the girls a unique chance to engage with female leaders who are making significant contributions in their fields. Dr. Margelet Hamilton, one of the dedicated volunteers, spoke passionately about the need for young girls to have opportunities to meet and learn from inspiring women.
“We’re working to amplify the voices of our young ladies, helping them realize that numerous paths are available to them,” stated Dr. Hamilton.
Building Connections and Friendships
Dr. Hamilton expressed particular excitement over seeing girls from her own neighborhood participating in this empowering event. She noted how it not only provided an opportunity for career exploration but also fostered connections among peers from different schools. “Making friends across campuses is something I’ve always dreamed of, whether it’s in music, science, or chemistry,” she shared.
A Glimpse into Future Careers
The event provided attendees with an intimate look at how women continue to shatter barriers across various industries. Quashier Flood-Strouble, the Director of Career Development at Citizens for a Sustainable Future, articulated her inspirations for organizing this event aimed specifically at young girls.
“At the age of 6th grade, I felt it was crucial to plant the seeds of education, with hopes that they would eventually sprout into aspirations for careers in STEM and other beautiful local professions,” Flood-Strouble articulated.
Hands-On Learning Experience
Flood-Strouble also stressed the importance of offering the girls a practical, hands-on career exploration experience. “It’s vital for them to actively engage, learn by doing, and be involved in meaningful interactions. That’s what true career exploration looks like,” she emphasized.
Continued Support and Inspiration
This was the first of what hopes to be many ‘Girls Out Loud’ gatherings, aimed at consistently reaching out to young girls throughout the year. Dr. Hamilton has confidence that the experiences they had will resonate long into the future. “I believe these girls will look back on this day, remembering the opportunities they had to connect with science and possibly form lasting friendships,” she reflected.
By the conclusion of the event, participants left feeling a renewed sense of inspiration, motivated by women who are not only leaders in their fields but also serve as role models for the generations to come.
In a fitting conclusion, Flood-Strouble remarked, “These girls are going home with fresh dreams and expansive possibilities, knowing that the sky is the limit.”
The Importance of Representation
The event served as a powerful reminder that representation is vital, and the future is bright with endless opportunities for these aspiring young women.
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