Monica is an inspirational advocate in the work of female empowerment, believing that when our own sense of love is fulfilled, we accept, care for, and value ourselves. This then creates positive life outcomes for ourselves and others. She knows this is vitally important because of the negative experiences and messages girls and women encounter about their identities,  bodies, and how they show up in the world.

 

Her core values of self-love, self-worth, and inclusivity also make her particularly passionate about reaching girls in the critical stages of their development. She created the F.L.Y. FIRST LOVE YOURSELF program, which offers workshops, classes, support groups, and mentoring to girls aged 13-17. Monica is also a state-certified youth health first aid responder.

 

Monica's background as a retired licensed cosmetologist and former salon owner of Essential Arts Studio, as well as her work as a professional media red carpet photographer in Atlanta, G.A., have provided her with a unique perspective on the importance of self-care and self-love. She has also worked at Hudson Pride Center in New Jersey as their program’s director, where she gained valuable experience in creating and managing programs that empower marginalized communities. In 2018, Monica moved from White Plains, New York to Hawai'i, where she continues to pursue her passion for empowering girls and women.

 

She believes that every person deserves to feel beautiful and worthy, regardless of their

background, identity, or circumstances. Through Monica’s work with What Makes You Feel

Beautiful and the F.L.Y. FIRST LOVE YOURSELF program, Monica is making a difference in the lives of girls and women across the country. Her vision is to help create a world of strong, happy, liberated women. A world where self-love is a fundamental part of every woman's life.