For 2025 ANANIZACH LLC and MENTOR Maryland | DC, founding partners of ELEVATE H.E.R., want to elevate YOU! Follow our social media and Newsletter as we highlight leaders of the mentoring movement and youth development fields for Women’s History Month. ELEVATE H.E.R. is dedicated to Honoring, Educating, and Revitalizing. This year’s theme is ‘Honoring Her Journey, Shaping Her Wings,’. Join us during March as we celebrate the unsung women who inspire and build community engagement.
Jeannette Simon
Founder/CEO ANANIZACH LLC
“In 1992 I started mentoring a feisty 9th-grader with a short temper, a sharp wit, and a heart of gold. Tiny (nickname) brought to light something in me I didn’t know existed. She tried my patience and taught me to be nonjudgemental, to respect and embrace our differences, and to appreciate our commonalities. She allowed me to be authentic and vulnerable and she did the same. Her allowing me to be a part of her life changed mine. I switched careers. Years after her high school graduation, she thanked me for sharing my time with her. Our relationship continues.”
Laura Green
Executive Director, MENTOR MD|DC
“Sometimes, people mentor us without even realizing the impact they’ve had. I had a former boss who showed me the power of persistence—how to be tenacious and resourceful, and to never take “no” as the final answer. They never explicitly taught me these lessons, but by allowing me to shadow them, I learned by observing their actions and leadership.”
The Joy of Living Inc.
Organization Mission: To bridge the gaps of unmet basic needs (food, clothing, life essentials, and resources) for Baltimore/Howard County's most economically disadvantaged women and children.
EmpowerHER Mission:
Our mission is to empower middle and high school girls to embrace a promising future and thrive as resilient young women through personalized mentoring. We aim to cultivate self-sufficiency and excellence, guiding them to unlock their full potential and supporting them through their journey from 10-18 with service, education, and sisterhood
Organization Region/County: Baltimore County, Baltimore City and Howard County
How does your program 'honor her journey' and 'shape her wings’?
Celebrating Women's History Month with Purpose & Passion
At The Joy of Living, INC., we honor her journey—the strength, resilience, and determination of every woman and child we serve. Our comprehensive support programs provide a safe space for healing and the essential resources—food, clothing, and life necessities—that empower them to move forward with dignity and hope.
We shape her wings by creating pathways to self-sufficiency and growth. Through mentorship, job readiness training, educational support, and access to critical resources, we help women and children soar beyond their circumstances, embracing new possibilities and brighter futures.
EmpowerHER stands as a beacon of hope for young girls, honoring their journey by recognizing their unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations. With personalized mentoring, we ensure every girl feels seen, heard, and valued as she navigates life’s challenges and victories.
We shape her wings by equipping girls with the tools they need to soar—leadership development, education, and service opportunities that foster confidence and resilience. In a sisterhood built on support and solidarity, every girl learns to lift as she climbs, ensuring no one walks their path alone.
This Women's History Month, let us celebrate the power of community, empowerment, and transformation. Together, we uplift women and girls, helping them rewrite their stories and embrace a future without limits.
Social Media Handle: https://www.facebook.com/thejoyoflivingcenter
Website: www.joyoflivingcenter.org
Girls on the Run of Mid and Western MD
Organization Mission: GOTR inspires girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates running.
Organization Region/County: Frederick, Washington, Allegany, and Garrett Counties in Maryland
How does your program ‘honor her journey’ and ‘shape her wings’?
At Girls on the Run, we celebrate the unique star power that each girl brings to our program teams. Our curriculum is designed to build confidence, the persistence to accomplish hard things, and to share what is in their hearts. Meeting in small teams of girls in 3rd through 8th grade, our coaches lead activities that are designed to celebrate progress, not performance, reinforcing self-worth and building self-esteem. Girls learn how to successfully navigate conflicts, friendships, and peer pressure in positive ways. While running remains a core element of our program, we are also incorporating mindfulness, emotional regulation, and self-compassion practices. We place a greater emphasis on personal achievement over competition and help girls develop the skills to soar.
Center for Creative Life and Learning, Inc. (Girls on Fire Mentoring and Leadership Programs
Organization Vision: Preparing Girls to Become Today and Future Leaders
Mission: Creating a nurturing environment where every girl can reach her full potential, receive mentoring support, develop positive self-esteem, cultivate confidence, resilience, mental and emotional wellness, and become compassionate leaders.
Organization Region/County: Located in Howard County Maryland but also serves Baltimore County, City, and surrounding areas.
How does your program 'honor her journey' and 'shape her wings'?
We believe within every girl lies the potential for greatness and leadership development. It is our responsibility to come alongside providing nurturing mentorship and tools to help them reach their leadership potential and achieve success in life.
Social Media Handle: Instagram: cclalinc.org;
Facebook: Center for Creative Life Boys and Girls Mentoring Program
Website links: www. girlsonfiremd.com and cclalinc.org
Worcester Connects/ Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services
Organization Mission:
Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services is a non-profit organization providing mental health services and support programs to youth and families so that they may lead healthy, productive lives.
Organization Region/County: Eastern Shore- Worcester County, MD
How does your program 'honor her journey' and 'shape her wings'?
Our program strives to support and encourage all young females to be their best selves. Every day we embrace the sass, listen to the drama, and support every aspect of these students’ personalities. Being a female only staff, we are able to share our own experiences and do our best to inspire those we work with. It is so important to empower these girls by allowing them to be themselves, helping them explore their interests and curiosities, and never dimming their light. Our students share their dreams for the future and allow us the opportunity to help share information on how to reach these goals. One student will be a pediatric cardiovascular surgeon and as she says, “..then I will run for president. And they [the country] will be like ‘she saved a bunch of babies, maybe she can save our country’”. We are so lucky to work with so many amazing young women and girls.
Social Media Handle: worcesteryouthandfamily
Website link: www.gowoyo.org
Born and raised in Washington DC, Charmayne embodies a multifaceted persona, excelling in the realms of science, technology, and the arts. Despite the underrepresentation of women of color in STEM fields, Charmayne has dedicated over three decades to advancing her engineering career at leading Aerospace and Defense corporations globally. Transitioning from a STEM background, she ventured into entrepreneurship, crafting luxurious all-natural bath and body products. In 2017, Charmayne introduced her sustainable and innovative product line, The Bath Nut Co., infusing her passion for science and creativity into the brand's essence. Through this venture, her entrepreneurial spirit flourished, leading her to manage her son Myles Frost's entertainment career.
Charmayne's journey is marked by a trail of accomplishments, as she continually shatters barriers and advocates for increased opportunities for women of color. By intertwining science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), she endeavors to ignite curiosity and innovation, transcending the boundaries of traditional STEM fields. Charmayne's evolution from a woman in STEM to a woman championing STEAM reflects her commitment to empowering individuals and fostering creativity at the intersection of diverse disciplines.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“Pivotal moments throughout my journey that have shaped my perspective on life have come from being surrounded by incredible BOSS women in my sister circle. These women not only own, operate, and manage multi-million dollar acquisitions but also successfully balance family life. Seeing them confidently navigate their businesses with such strength and grace motivates me to keep pushing forward and never quit on my own path. Building a brand comes with its share of challenges, but with powerful mentorship and a strong support system, anything is possible.”
IG: @bathnut and @char.stray
Thank you to Mentor MD|DC for selecting me as an honoree for Elevate H.E.R 2025!
I am a personal chef/caterer. I have been cooking all my life, and professionally since 2007. I love food in all its aspects; being in the kitchen helped me find my purpose, and helped me understand who I am to my core. I love the controlled, structured environment of a kitchen, but I thrive on the freedom of creating art through food.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
I was told by my mentor, "An amateur practices until they get it right. A master practices until they CAN'T get it wrong."
chefpants187@gmail.com
NAACP & nationally award winning step coach affectionately known as Coach G. The Founder and Baltimore’s preeminent mentoring program Coach G Academy, Inc. She has over 10 years of experience in Step and Body Percussion as an art form but a lifetime of passion in empowering and inspiring the youth specifically young girls ages 12-18. With choreography credits including STEP the movie, Vogue Magazine, and even a private performance for former first lady Michelle Obama. She’s working hard to spread the artform of step and change the conversation about youth in Baltimore.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“I had a mentor Adrienne Watson Carver who is now a sorority sister of mine who saw me going down the wrong path and cared enough about me to encourage me to come to step practice. That invite changed my life it helped me actualize college and make better plans for my future.”
@CoachGStepisLife
#stepislife #coachgacademy #mentoringmatters to the post please
Dakotah is the Data Management Specialist at MENTOR Maryland | DC, where she helps drive insights on how best to serve youth-focused programs and increase the quality and quantity of mentoring relationships. Having been shaped by mentors herself, she believes in the impact of supportive relationships and is currently preparing for medical school with guidance from mentors who encourage her to pursue her goals.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“A mentor who continues to shape my journey is a physician who took an untraditional path to medicine while balancing a full life and career. She recognized qualities in me that I often overlook and reminded me that I am capable of pursuing this path. Her encouragement, along with her willingness to share her own experience, has been a reminder that women can define success on their own terms—and that support from other women can be transformative.”
Dr. Sophia Rudisill Holmes leads Baltimore City Public Schools' Mentoring and Adult Relationships (MAR) initiative. As a leadership coach and systems architect with a doctorate in Strategic Leadership, she has led the creation of district-wide mentoring programming that connects students with supportive adults. Her diverse experience across education, business, and nonprofits strengthens Maryland's educational goals by developing systems that help students thrive through meaningful relationships.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“I lacked formal mentors until adulthood. Nevertheless, as a child, I sought guidance from individuals like Linda Hall, my choral director, who invited me into the choir—shifting my sense of belonging and paving the way for future opportunities. In college, Reginald Pindell helped me find my literal voice, while early in my career, Beth Casey helped me discover my figurative voice. Each provided a model for navigating complex systems despite the odds. These pivotal relationships transformed my journey, teaching me that mentorship doesn't require formality—just someone who believes in your potential when you can't yet see it yourself.”
@mentoring_cityschools
Grateful.
Kianna is an accomplished youth-development professional with over ten years in the mentoring field. Currently serving as the Program Outreach & Support Manager for MENTOR MD|DC, Kianna brings her profound understanding of effective mentoring techniques and exceptional relationship-building skills. As a mentor, youth advocate, program coordinator, and District-level consultant, Kianna has consistently displayed her ability to foster personal and professional growth with her constituents. Her strategic guidance and insights optimize mentoring initiatives and outcomes, creating impactful experiences for mentors and mentees. Always seeking to improve her impact and stay sharp in the social-impact world, Kianna earned the Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential in 2024, enhancing her professional development and growth. She is dedicated to empowering the next generation and dismantling barriers that perpetuate social injustices faced by marginalized individuals disproportionately.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“In high school, I met a woman while volunteering as a Spanish-English interpreter at a church. She was the first adult I befriended, an askable adult I could talk to about anything, while treating me as an equal. A pharmacist who built a life on her own terms, she showed me what balanced adulthood could look like. She used her connections to support my career aspirations, but more importantly, she modeled independence, generosity, and community engagement. At the time, I wouldn’t have called her a mentor, but looking back, she was one of my most impactful, and our mentorship was mutual.”
I was born in DC. I work for FEMA as the Public Assistance Arbitration Section Chief. When not working, I volunteer in several realms including AKA high school outreach programs.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“I was a poor-performing student in high school. Actually, I may not have graduated but for my English teacher Dr Davy. Dr. Davy was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated (AKA) and started Girls Emerging as Mature Students (GEMS). This outreach program, in short, is solely responsible for my course correction. I continued to Frostburg State University where I was elected President of the student body. I continued to Berkeley Law School and studied at Harvard Law School in my third year. I was elected to the Takoma Park, Maryland City Council. I’d say I owe it all to Dr Davy!”
Thanks for all you do.
Maggy François is a multifaceted creative focusing on fashion, education, and the entertainment industry. Her love of writing came when she started journaling at 14 years old about her life experiences. Maggy began her career in film when she was featured in a documentary that spawned a desire to control her destiny through black stories. An Entrepreneur by day writer by night, she is currently an adjunct professor at Bowie State University. A Brooklyn native, she is a lover of naps, organic foods, and anything peaceful, and you can find her always multitasking. When she is not writing, Maggy spends most of her time reading, cooking, and catching her favorite Broadway show, “MJ The Musical.” Maggy has contributed to writing curriculums, non-profit programs, and editorials for Huffington Post, Glamour Magazine just to name a few. In 1996, Maggy began her stylish career producing events for clients up and down the East Coast landing her first contract with the Congressional Black Caucus. Her ultimate goal was to always increase awareness and bring visibility to the fashion design industry through productions and education. From humble beginnings to soaring above and beyond to achieve her clients her wildest dreams, she continues to turn fantasy into reality and is instrumental in the selection, planning, and development of every production. Francois is a visionary with unmatched talent and genius. With more than 25 years in the event planning, public relations, fashion, film, and marketing industry, she draws people to brands, causes, events, and ideas, by weaving in her certain “je ne sais quoi”.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors across various industries—fashion, entertainment, education, and film, each bringing a unique perspective. While I can’t pinpoint just one moment, the collective wisdom I’ve gained has taught me the importance of moving with grace, respect, kindness, and, most importantly, patience. In an industry as demanding as mine, success isn’t just about talent but about how you navigate challenges with integrity and perseverance.”
@fancyfrancois
Thank you
Patrice Lee is a results-driven business strategist, entrepreneur, and community advocate with expertise in enterprise sales, branding, and corporate sustainability. She has held leadership roles at major companies, including Dassault Systèmes as a Global Senior Software Sales Strategist and Maryland Energy Advisors as an Energy Efficiency Product Manager, where she has driven multi-million-dollar initiatives, expanded market presence, and built high-value partnerships with Fortune 500 companies. With an MBA and a background in Chemistry, Patrice merges science and strategy to create transformative experiences. In 2020, she founded a luxury fragrance brand that redefines confidence and self-expression through scent. Each fragrance is meticulously crafted to elevate moods and enhance individuality, bridging the gap between beauty and science. Beyond business, Patrice is deeply committed to community impact. As Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at St. Francis Neighborhood Center, she supports educational and economic empowerment programs aimed at ending generational poverty. An active fundraiser and mentor, she dedicates her time to advancing opportunities for underrepresented communities in Baltimore and beyond. Her career spans energy, education, and luxury branding, but her mission remains consistent—helping individuals and businesses elevate their confidence, presence, and success. Whether through strategic business development, fragrance innovation, or community leadership, Patrice is dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“Many people have shaped my journey, including my amazing parents and teachers, but my paternal grandmother, Willie Nell Lee, was a powerful reminder that circumstances don’t define your future. A widow with seven children, she had only a sixth-grade education but never complained—she persevered. Through her self-taught skills as a professional seamstress and community leader, she sent five of her seven children to college, including my father. Growing up in Africatown, USA, her resilience, entrepreneurship, and unwavering positivity inspired me to see business as a tool for empowerment. Her influence patriceylee@gmail.com shaped my confidence, ambition, and passion for serving others”
Instagram - @patrice_y_Lee FB: Patrice Lee"
Thank you for this amazing opportunity.
Tiaira Robinson, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, discovered her passion for art at an early age, which led her to pursue a degree in Urban Arts with a focus on Arts Administration from Coppin State University. She later earned a Master’s degree in Curriculum Design & Instruction from Louisiana State University Shreveport. With experience as a Baltimore City Schools educator and over a decade of dedication to youth development, Tiaira currently serves as the Director of Programs for I AM MENtality Youth Male Empowerment Project. She is deeply committed to seeing Baltimore’s youth thrive, succeed, and reach their full potential, using education, mentorship, and community engagement to create meaningful opportunities. She is a past fellow of the American Express Campaign for Black Male Achievement, the Center for Urban Families' Practitioner's Leadership Institute, and the Baltimore Corps Mayoral Fellowship. She also holds youth and community-driven certifications from the Center for Creative Leadership, the Academy for Educational Development, and the Beloved Community Center. Her extensive experience, leadership, and passion continue to shape the landscape of youth empowerment and education in Baltimore.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“A pivotal moment in my journey was when my grandmother, my first mentor, brought me into her classroom as a teenager. She encouraged my creativity, allowing me to design bulletin boards and create drawings for her presentations. Through her guidance, I saw firsthand the impact of education and the power of engaging learning environments. Her passion for teaching and dedication to her students inspired me to pursue a career in youth development and education. That early mentorship shaped my desire to empower young people, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive, just as she did for her students.”
IG- iammentality, Facebook- Tiaira Robinson
A highly regarded corporate sales leader with nearly 20 years of experience, Danielle Brown is a seasoned professional in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry. Throughout her career, she has successfully led across a diverse portfolio of food and personal care brands and has consulted for several Fortune 500 companies.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Danielle is a best-selling children’s author, recognized for her book Girl Dad (2022). She is deeply committed to community engagement and serves on the boards of Associated Black Charities and iMentor Baltimore. Additionally, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Greater Baltimore Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“Early in my career, I found myself in a predominantly male-dominated industry, where I was consistently outperforming peers but not always receiving equitable recognition. Fortunately, I had an incredible mentor who championed the power of a “disruptive voice” and encouraged me to advocate for myself. She challenged me to have bold conversations about fair and equitable pay and to be comfortable showcasing my successes for visibility. Her guidance not only shaped my approach to leadership and innovation but also reinforced the importance of compassionate and empathetic leadership—a philosophy I continue to uphold in empowering those around me”
Social Media :📸 Instagram – @aboutthebrowns
Roxie Icon is a highly regarded esthetician with 10 years of experience, specializing in pro-aging, hyperpigmentation, and acne treatments. Her journey into the beauty industry began at Baltimore’s School of Massage, where she was inspired to shift from a successful career as a freelance makeup artist to skincare after a transformative makeup session ignited her passion for esthetics. In 2018, Roxie founded "LUX10Skyn," where she fosters a culture centered on learning and self-acceptance. Her story embodies the power of self-belief and highlights her mission to empower others to feel confident in their own skin.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“While I haven’t had a formal mentor, I've encountered many individuals and experiences that have significantly shaped my journey. The most impactful moments come from my interactions with clients. Their stories and aspirations inspire me to continually learn and grow—not just for myself, but to better serve them. These shared experiences fuel my passion and commitment to the art of esthetics, driving me to elevate both my skills and their confidence.” Instagram: @RoxieIcon
Erica was born and raised in Georgia, though has resided in Baltimore, Maryland for the last 15 years. Her life journey has always involved acts of service whether it was personal or professional. She just recently celebrated 9 years of working at the American Red Cross. Her various roles there have allowed her to travel to many cities around the country to help those affected by disasters. When she is not serving in her professional role, she serves in her personal life as the Vice President of the Ladies of Vision Enterprise (L.O.V.E.). The group hosts different events like bus trips, dances, and raffles to raise money for charities in Baltimore.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“I was fortunate in one of my previous roles to have supervisor who was more than just my manager, she was a mentor as well. Tessa Lovro was my supervisor when I was a first-time manager. She helped me to get more comfortable with seeking feedback about myself as well as providing it constructively to others. I would previously avoid conflict, but she gave me tips on how to lean into it and focus on the actions and not making it personal. “
Miss Mission USA Jenny Nguyen is the Program Specialist for Southeast Asia at the U.S. Institute of Peace, where she works on the Vietnam War Legacies and Reconciliation Initiative. She is the founder of MentorSHIP: Sailing to Success, an initiative promoting the transformative power of mentorship through Awareness, Advocacy, and Action. Jenny also serves on the Girls on the Run Montgomery County Young Professionals Advisory Council and is a dedicated volunteer for MENTOR MD|DC, Liberty’s Promise, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival. She previously served as President and Board Chair of the National Association of Asian American Professionals, Washington, D.C., leading efforts to promote leadership and professional development within the Asian American community. Jenny proudly holds the title of Miss District of Columbia under the Miss Mission USA Organization. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics from Wichita State University and a master’s degree in International Development Studies from George Washington University.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
"The first time I volunteered for a pageant, I never imagined myself on stage. One day, the pageant director sat down with me and told me she believed in me—that I had the potential to grow, lead, and inspire others. Her words gave me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and embrace something I had never considered before.”
“Now, through pageantry, I empower and mentor other women to take that same leap of faith. I help them see that pageants are not just about appearances, but about personal growth, confidence, and leadership. I guide them through the process, offering encouragement, advice, and support so they, too, can find their voice and strength on stage. Seeing them grow into empowered, self-assured women reminds me of the impact mentorship can have, just as my director’s belief in me changed my own path." @jennyk_nguyen
Rev. Dr. Greta Willis Elder, Advocate for Social Equality& Victims of Crime, Police Reform Activist, Motivational Speaker and Community Outreach Leader Greta Willis is an ordained Elder at the Pillar Worship Center under the leadership of Apostle Roger Johnson, Pastor. She received her Doctor of Philosophy in Theology at the Pillar Bible College, Baltimore, MD. She is a wife (Deacon Mark Willis), mother, grandmother (Janaya & Kimani), sister and friend. Her only daughter is currently serving in the United States Military (OSCS) Nichole D. White. She uses her spiritual gifts of giving to assist others in all areas of life. She always gives the LOVE of the LORD to all that she meets. She is fondly known in the community as “Momma Greta” for her door may be knocked upon daily for a helping hand. Whether someone needs food, clothing, financial resources or shelter, she is there for not only her immediate family but also the entire community. The gifts that were bestowed upon her have allowed her to advocate for youth and their families. Her primary focuses are at risk youth between the ages of 5-21. She motivates and inspires them. Her slogan is “Transforming Youth into “CHAMPIONS”. She is the co-founder of the Kevin L. Cooper Foundation, Inc., name after her youngest son Kevin L. Cooper whom life was stolen unjustly by a Baltimore City, Police Officer on August 12, 2006 at the tender age of 14 years old. Thrusting her to advocate against Police Misconduct holding them accountable for their actions. Rev. Willis is dedicated to advocate for the youth through her personal pain. She travels nationally encouraging others through the word of God and standing with families who experienced loss. She has been able to turn her tragedy into Triumph. Through her Foundation she yearly, donates books, clothes and other necessary educational tools to various schools to promote education. Also, through the Foundation she has a Scholarship Fund, Achievement Award, FREE Summer Camp, Summer Connect program where school supplies, clothes, food, health screenings, literature and other items are given to the community at no cost. Rev. Willis story is featured in the documentary Protect, Serve and Care, which won the Emmy Awards in Massachusetts. Rev. Willis leads a grief support group at Liberty Elementary School in Baltimore, City for youth. She also graduated from the Ropers Academy …advocating for Victims of Crime and their families. Rev. Willis was blessed to speak at the 2017 NAACP National Conference as well as Loyola College for Social Equality. Rev. Willis is the Director of the Pillar Worship Center Family Kitchen (pantry) and Outreach Program in Southwest Baltimore. She is committed to strengthening families and communities as well as positively impacting the lives of our youth.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
"Having kindred spirits is the best mentorship when it's from the same family tree. My eldest sister Elder Patricia Campbell was my mentor without even realizing the impact she had on my life. She showed me the power of faith, stability, persistence and how to be tenacious and resourceful. I learned by observing her walk and actions in keeping the faith. “
Kevinlcooperfoundation.org
As the owner of Anita’s Harmony, I see a world where communities are reunited as a village. Individuals to help one another and make positive changes. I believe the community needs God-fearing, positive people to show the next generation how to become positive role models for the future.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are
“From an early age, my mother instilled in me the importance of hard work, resilience, and kindness. She led by example, demonstrating how to face challenges with grace and determination. Whether it was through her encouragement during my academic journey, her patience in teaching me life skills, or her ability to turn setbacks into learning experiences, she consistently guided me with love and wisdom.”
www.anitasharmony.com
Hi, my name is Rita and I'm a program outreach specialist at MENTOR MARYLAND |DC.
Rita is a dedicated and passionate person who has a bachelor’s in psychology with a Global Business minor from Troy University class of 2021. She went ahead to further education by getting her master’s in marketing from University of South Florida class of 2023. She served first in the Americorps with the Virginia department of social services as a marketing and outreach coordinator VISTA. Her current position at MENTOR MD|DC is Program Outreach VISTA. She is excited to make an impact in her community and at large by making a change with her marketing skills and learning more on program outreach in the Maryland and DC area.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where a mentor shaped who you are today?
“A mentor shaped me in college by choosing the right degree and career path.” riwelumo@mentormddc.org
Divine By Design Mentoring
Organization Mission: Our mission at DbD is to inspire and empower vulnerable at-risk girls to help them to live out their full potential. By creating mentoring relationships, teaching leadership skills, self-confidence, independence, and self-worth. Our program was designed to help girls find their voice and purpose.
Organization Region/County: We serve the DMV but based in Charles County Maryland
Instagram- @divinebydesignmentoring
Center for Creative Life and Learning, Inc
(Girls on Fire Mentoring and Leadership Programs)
Organization Vision: Preparing Girls to Become Today and Future Leaders
Organization Mission: Creating a nurturing environment where every girl can reach her full potential, receive mentoring support, develop positive self-esteem, cultivate confidence, resilience, mental and emotional wellness become compassionate leaders.
Organization Region/County: Located in Howard County Maryland but also serves Baltimore County, City and surrounding areas.
How does your program 'honor her journey' and 'shape her wings'?
We believe within every girl lies the potential for greatness and leadership development. It is our responsibility to come alongside providing nurturing mentorship and tools to help them reach their leadership potential and achieve success in life.
Social Media Handle: Instagram: cclalinc.org;
Facebook: Center for Creative Life Boys and Girls Mentoring Programs
Website link: www. girlsonfiremd.com and cclalinc.org
Imagine Me Ministries
Organization Mission - Changing the trajectory of Girls’ Lives in Overlooked Urban Communities to Become Self-Sufficient, High-Achieving Leaders Who Reach Their Full Potential!
Organization Region/County - Baltimore City
How does your program 'honor her journey' and 'share her wings'?
We honor our girls by dignifying and valuing the beautiful details of what makes them unique! We celebrate their voice, their lives and surround them with long term support and love that gives them the platform to go in the direction of their hopes and dreams, not only for themselves but for their homes, communities and the world we live in. Imagine Me is blessed to be a part of their story!
Social Media Handle - imaginemeministries(Instagram)...Imagine Me Ministries (Facebook)
Website - www.imaginemementor.org
STELLA’S GIRLS, INC
Organization Mission:
At Stella’s Girls, Inc., our mission is to educate and empower youth to become
social change agents in their communities through mentorship, leadership
development, and advancing the feminist movement.
Organization Region/County:
Our headquarters is in Charles County, but we have chapters in Frederick County, St Mary’s County, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Uganda, and Kenya.
How does your program ‘honor her journey’ and ‘shape her wings’?
We live in a dark and unsettling era, particularly given the current political climate.
By providing a mentoring program for our youth, we offer them an avenue to
develop leadership and communication skills, enhance self-confidence, foster
self-awareness, establish early networking opportunities, and achieve their life
Social Media Handle
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/StellasGirlsInc
Twitter- https://x.com/stellasgirlsinc
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/stellasgirls/
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/stellas-girls-inc/ Website link
https://www.stellasgirls.org/
Woman to Woman Mentoring, Inc
Organization Mission: Our mission is to provide adult women with guidance, support, and community connections through mentoring relationships. We are a small nonprofit based in Frederick, Maryland and serve adult women in Frederick and Carroll counties.
How does your program ‘honor her journey’ and ‘shape her wings’?
Our programs honor each woman's journey by offering opportunities to connect with other women in a safe and welcoming setting while providing tools and resources to help her build confidence and explore her own personal and professional goals. Woman to Woman Mentoring programs serve adult women who live, work, or go to school in Frederick county of all stages and backgrounds and we believe in the power of one-on-one connection and community building through mentoring relationships.
We help each woman shape her wings by allowing her to use the tools and resources offered through our programs to build community and access opportunities that suit her needs and goals. Our CORE Mentoring Program, our Women in STEM Mentoring Program, and our Mentoring Circles are tailored to different audiences, and we are able to serve different ages, stages, and expertise through these programs. All of our programs are available at no cost to all participants.
FB: Woman to Woman Mentoring
IG: w2wminc
Website: www.womantowomanmentoring.org