In the heart of the beautiful Hawaiian island of Maui, a powerful movement of empowerment was brewing. On July 29th, 2023, the island witnessed an inspiring gathering of mothers and daughters, coming together to celebrate their strength, forge stronger bonds, and prepare for an enriching school semester. Organized by "What Makes You Feel Beautiful," a Maui-based 501(c)3 nonprofit female empowerment organization, the "Empowered Minds: Back-to-School Event" promised to be a day of transformation and growth for all who attended.
The Island Art Party:
The Island Art Party, nestled in the Azeka Shopping Center, Kihei, Maui, welcomed all attendees with open arms. From 9 AM to 11 AM, the venue buzzed with excitement as mothers and daughters eagerly anticipated the empowering experiences that lay ahead.
The Highlights:
Female Empowerment Talk:
The event began with an awe-inspiring talk led by Chantelle Pamalia Nani O Kekai Brown, a true trailblazer from the County of Maui's Department of Fire & Public Safety, Ocean Safety Bureau ~ South District Captain. In a male-dominated field, she had shattered glass ceilings and emerged as a leader. Her story of perseverance, courage, and empowerment left a profound impact on all who listened.
Vision Board Workshop:
Next up was a workshop hosted by Savannah Gankiewicz, Miss Hawaii USA, where creativity knew no bounds. Attendees were encouraged to set goals for the upcoming school year by creating personalized vision boards. Armed with art supplies, magazines, and guidance, mothers and daughters envisioned their dreams and aspirations, ready to manifest them into reality.
Keynote Speaker:
The event's esteemed keynote speaker, Primrose Lehualani Harris, President of "What Makes You Feel Beautiful's" steering committee, graced the stage. With wisdom and passion, she shared effective strategies for planning a successful school semester. Her insights on self-care, goal setting, and nurturing a positive mindset provided the audience with valuable tools to navigate life's challenges.
Special Education Talk:
A topic of utmost importance was addressed by Reyhan Ma-Albertson, the founder of Womb Garden Maui, an expert in special education. Her talk on "Navigating Periods with Confidence" tackled menstrual health and offered self-care tips for maintaining physical and emotional well-being. By fostering open dialogue, the session empowered mothers and daughters with knowledge and understanding.
Back-to-School Supplies and Pupus:
As the event progressed, attendees were delighted to receive back-to-school supplies and goodies, setting the stage for an exciting new academic journey. Delicious pupus, generously provided by India Brassingram of Island Sotheby's International Realty, added flavor to the day, offering an opportunity for mothers and daughters to connect with one another and forge new friendships.
A Message from the Founder:
Monica Marrow, the visionary behind "What Makes You Feel Beautiful," addressed the gathering, expressing her mission to create a platform for mothers and daughters to connect, learn, and grow together. She emphasized the significance of self-love, authenticity, and finding one's unique gifts to serve others, drawing inspiration from great figures like Dr. Martin Luther King and Oprah Winfrey.
Gratitude and Appreciation:
In a heartfelt message, Monica extends her gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event. From board members, volunteers, and speakers to sponsors and donors, each person's commitment played a vital role in making the day unforgettable.
The "Empowered Minds: Back-to-School Event" was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of all who attended. As the attendees departed, they carried with them the seeds of empowerment, ready to bloom and spread throughout the Maui community and beyond. The event had accomplished its mission of empowering mothers and daughters to embrace their potential, to love themselves unconditionally, and to stand tall as they walked into the future with renewed vigor and confidence.