BeaYOUtiful Six-Week Confidence Program

The Cause

Our initiative, the BeaYOUtiful Six-Week Confidence Program, aims to address the pressing issue of low self-esteem among female and non-binary youth aged 8 to 14, a challenge amplified by the social isolation experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the diminishing availability of free social services. Through our recent programming, feedback from parents and school administrators highlighted significant concerns regarding youth mental health, revealing a need for safe spaces that foster connection and personal growth.

The BeaYOUtiful Six-Week Confidence Program fosters long-term mental wellness by building a supportive community network. Our dual focus empowers both youth participants and mentors, many of whom experience isolation in their communities. By connecting these female mentors with youth in a group setting, we create opportunities for meaningful relationships that extend beyond the program. Each six-week session consists of intimate groups of 12 to 15 participants, tackling vital topics such as self-worth, media literacy, body positivity, leadership, and goal-setting. We emphasize the importance of mentorship through our unique “Soul Sister” experience, pairing each participant with a female mentor from their community. This personalized support is crucial for enhancing the sense of belonging among participants.

In response to increasing demand for self-esteem education, we also offer single-day workshops that accommodate larger groups of 25-35 participants, ensuring broader access to our resources. These workshops involve paired mentorship opportunities and larger group discussions, further enriching the learning experience.

Each of the six weekly sessions lasts 1.5 hours and focuses on critical topics:
Week 1. Self Worth & Affirmations: Participants practice gratitude and self-affirmations, enhancing their self-image.
Week 2. Media Literacy: Educates youth on online safety and the influence of media on self-perception.
Week 3. Positive Body Image: Addresses societal pressures on appearance, encouraging confidence through supportive exercises.
Week 4. Goal Setting: Introduces the SMART goal framework, empowering participants to set and achieve personal objectives.
Week 5. Sisterhood Mentorship: Facilitates discussions on challenges like bullying and self-esteem, fostering a sense of belonging.
Week 6. Female Leadership: Features inspirational guest speakers, showcasing diverse role models and career paths.

Who Will it Benefit?

The BeaYOUtiful Six-Week Confidence Program is designed to benefit a diverse group of individuals and communities, primarily focusing on female and non-binary youth aged 8 to 14. This demographic has faced significant challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased social isolation, low self-esteem, and mental health issues. By providing these youth with a supportive environment, we aim to empower them to develop a positive self-image, enhance their confidence, and foster resilience that will serve them well into their teenage years and beyond.

Parents and guardians of the participants will also benefit from the program. Many have expressed concern over their children’s mental health and social skills, and our initiative addresses these needs by equipping youth with vital life skills and a stronger sense of self-worth. As children gain confidence and make meaningful connections, parents can feel reassured that their children are thriving in a nurturing space.

Additionally, female mentors from the community will gain invaluable benefits from their involvement in the program. Many mentors experience feelings of isolation themselves and find purpose through their roles in guiding and supporting youth. This mentorship fosters a sense of community and belonging for both mentors and mentees, creating networks of support that extend beyond the program’s duration.

Lastly, the wider community benefits from the program’s emphasis on building connections and fostering resilience. By partnering with school administrations and youth organizations, we can address broader social issues, such as bullying and mental health challenges, cultivating a culture of empathy and leading to a more inclusive atmosphere for all students.