Today we’d like to introduce you to Valencia Smith.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Valencia. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
As a teenager, I was fortunate enough to be part of an organization that helped me make healthy lifestyle decisions. An organization that was so influential that it helped shape me into the woman I am today. Unfortunately, it took some time for me to realize there was no feasible way to repay this organization other than, paying it forward. And once the light bulb clicked, I grasped the torch and used it as a beacon of light to not only help girls recognize their worth but maximize their potential.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has not always been easy and time management is still my biggest struggle. I tend to neglect myself and my needs simply because there just are not enough hours in the day. Juggling a full-time job, serving on the board of numerous organizations, constantly planning, coaching and mentoring can be a bit overwhelming. Not to mention, time with my family, friends and loved ones are also on the list. For me, the culmination of these makes the road bumpy. However, I’m learning to value and embrace self-care and to sometimes so no, my current schedule does not permit.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I mentor adolescent girls and I absolutely love it! As we all know, being a teenager is difficult and although I may sound bias, I personally believe being a teenage girl is even more difficult. So being able to reach teenage girls in ways that can be challenging for parents and teachers makes me most proud. My team of mentors and I are completely transparent and we operate in a judge free zone. We have a very non-traditional style of mentoring and strive to create a fun and safe space for girls to be girls. We steer away from long lectures and presentations and instead engage in interactive/hands-on workshops, all of which sets us apart.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
Absolutely, we have unlimited opportunities! God created us as powerful beings and we have the opportunity to change the world as we know it. We have the opportunity to make history, to lead, to empower, to influence and the list goes on. I believe, “inside every girl lies something hidden; an unseen woman waiting to be discovered.” And once a woman discovers who she is and taps into her God-given potential, she can accomplish any goal or aspiration that her heart so adamantly desires.
Contact Info:
- Website: GROWgirls.org
- Email: GROWgirlsmentorship@gmail.com
- Instagram: GROWgirlsmentorship
- Facebook: GROWgirlsmentorship
Image Credit:
Eric Harris, Candance Moore
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
