I am thrilled to witness the ongoing progress of the Maui GEMS initiative. Currently, we have successfully identified nine approved mentors who are ready to guide and support our participants. Our next step involves raising awareness among potential students and their parents about the program and facilitating their registration. This is an exciting phase as we continue to expand our reach and impact within the community.
In the pursuit of personal and professional growth, the presence of a mentor can be transformative, especially for young girls navigating the complex journey of adolescence. Mentorship provides not just guidance and knowledge but also fosters emotional support and confidence. For young girls, mentors act as role models who demonstrate the potential paths their lives can take, offering insights into a world of possibilities that might otherwise seem out of reach.
Why Mentorship Matters
“I don't know what I would have done without mine!” Monica Marrow, Executive Director at What Makes You Feel Beautiful
Mentors provide more than just career guidance; they are pivotal in shaping young minds with their experiences and wisdom. This guidance is crucial in helping girls from diverse backgrounds to overcome obstacles and achieve their potential. Through mentorship, young girls learn resilience, empowerment, and the importance of networking. These are invaluable tools in any field, particularly in entrepreneurship, where challenges are frequent and often daunting.
Studies have shown that girls who engage with mentors enjoy better school outcomes, higher self-esteem, and are more likely to pursue higher education and successful careers. This positive influence is especially significant for girls from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, who may lack access to role models in their immediate environments.
I can't imagine what I would have done without my mentor. She entered my life during my teenage years and skillfully guided my career from its very beginnings. She shaped who I am as a businesswoman today, providing hands-on experiences that allowed me to learn and grow. She challenged me to exceed my own expectations and recognized potential in me that I couldn't see. She taught me to love myself, a gift for which I am eternally grateful. For 38 years, she has been a source of empowering wisdom and inspiration, and continues to be so.
Transforming Aspirations into Achievements
The benefits of mentorship extend into professional realms, particularly entrepreneurship. By interacting with mentors who are seasoned professionals, young girls can gain firsthand knowledge about running a business, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Such interactions open doors to new ideas and innovations, setting the groundwork for future success in ventures they might choose to pursue.
Meet Us at the Pacific Media Group Job Fair!
We are excited to announce that the Maui GEMS program will be at the Pacific Media Group Job Fair on April 27th from 11 AM to 2 PM at Queen Kaahumanu Center Court in Kahului. Find us at booth five to sign up for our summer internship and take our college and career readiness quiz. This is a fantastic opportunity to get a head start on your journey to empowerment and success.
Join Us at the "Emerging Innovators: Maui GEMS Youth Entrepreneur Workshop"
In line with our dedication to mentorship, we invite you to the "Emerging Innovators: Maui GEMS Youth Entrepreneur Workshop" on May 10, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM at 483 S. High St., Wailuku. This event is designed for young girls interested in entrepreneurship and will feature hands-on sessions with accomplished mentors and local business leaders. It’s a unique chance to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit, explore innovative ideas, and lay the groundwork for your future endeavors.
For more details and to register, please visit our event page: Emerging Innovators: Maui GEMS Youth Entrepreneur Workshop.
Stay Connected
Be sure to follow us on social media and check out the Maui GEMS webpage regularly. Each week, we're highlighting our Maui GEMS Mentors, showcasing the diverse backgrounds and unique skill sets they bring to our program. This is a great opportunity to get to know the inspiring individuals who will be guiding our young entrepreneurs, and to learn more about what they have to offer. Join us in this journey of mentorship and empowerment! This week we introduce Katie Farley
We look forward to seeing you at these events and helping you turn your aspirations into action. Sign up now for the internship,
download our quiz, and take your first steps towards a brighter future!
Please help us spread the word about our program and the opportunities it offers to young women in our community! Mahalo