Our PowHERful Inspiration for 2024!
COMPASSIONATE LEADERSHIP
Dr. Patsy McNeil's resilient spirit illuminates her journey from aspiring paleontologist to ER doctor. Influenced by strong women in her life, she worked relentlessly and was awarded with scholarships for college. She transitioned from anthropology to medicine and went on to save lives and in the ER, eventually, impacting others in her role as a healthcare leader. Dr. McNeil, reflecting on her personal growth, underscores the importance of guidance and striving for equity in shaping futures. She has a deep understanding of the importance of mentorship for girls and women, and sees PowHERful as her go-to in support of it. Her daily life is grounded in meditation, faith, hobbies, and her beloved dog, Louis. Read More
SUPPORTING BIG DREAMS
Lisa Setyon, a multilingual journalist pursuing a dual master’s degree, joined PowHERful Foundation to empower young women. Through her experience and belief in mentorship, she's supporting Naina, an ambitious accounting student at UConn. Lisa's diverse background in journalism and her observations of the media's lack of diversity drive her passion for varied perspectives in storytelling. For Lisa, mentorship is not just about advice; it encompasses skill development, broadening horizons, and fostering decision-making. Her commitment to guiding Naina isn't solely altruistic; it's a learning experience, broadening her own perspectives. Lisa's mission champions diversity in journalism and empowers aspiring individuals like Naina to dream big and realize their potential. Read More
FACING TRANSFORMATION BRAVELY
Deshawna Henry, a PowHERful scholar, shared her inspiring journey at Soledad O’Brien’s Champion of Children award speech. Originally from the West Indies, DeShawna’s family faced hardships when they arrived in the U.S. Despite struggles with poverty and tragedy, Deshawna found ways to maintain her spirit, finding solace in education and community involvement. A chance encounter with Soledad O’Brien led to a supportive relationship and a PowHERful scholarship, lifting her from homelessness to pursuing her dreams. Now a successful DevOps professional at IBM, Deshawna emphasizes the transformative power of the support of caring individuals. Her story reflects resilience, gratitude, and the ripple effect of empowering others after overcoming adversity. Read More
THE POWER OF EDUCATION—AND ROLE MODELS
Aviva Kamath, a physician, found her calling in mentoring high school girls through PowHERful. Inspired by Sharon Sheppard's dedication to helping girls in her community despite battling cancer, Aviva initiated 'Sharon's Squad' to uplift girls as they continue their education through high school and into college. Both women emphasize the importance of visible role models in guiding marginalized communities through challenges that put future successes at risk. Aviva's emotional support and tailored partnerships empower these girls, underscoring that true success stems from education and mentorship. Sharon and Aviva stand as beacons, shaping futures through compassion and wisdom. Read More
HELPING STUDENTS BECOME JOURNALISTS
Mikayla Newton overcame personal challenges to establish herself as a TV reporter in Washington, D.C. and become a PowHERful mentor. Her journey, rooted in a passion for journalism since middle school, led her through internships, daunting assignments, and a brave move away from home. Despite her mother's cancer diagnosis during the pandemic, Mikayla's faith and determination prevailed. Now, she's founded her own nonprofit, mentoring aspiring journalists and providing resources through the Mikayla Newton Foundation. With a firm belief in hard work and perseverance, Mikayla is empowering the next generation to pursue their dreams in journalism, bridging the gap for young women who are too often discouraged in this competitive field. Mikayla’s dedication through mentorship stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for budding journalists from diverse backgrounds. Read More
THE CIRCUITOUS PATH TO A COLLEGE DEGREE
Isabella Moles relates how homelessness, grief, and pandemic setbacks tested her resilience during her roundabout journey through college. In the face of mental health struggles, Isabella left school to seek solace with her family and confronted longstanding fears. Rediscovering her drive, Isabella excelled professionally, becoming the Executive Director of a local business alliance. The return to college was daunting, marked by doubts and a medical withdrawal. But with PowHERful's support, Isabella recommitted, realizing that readiness isn't a prerequisite for progress. Diploma in hand, Isabella feels liberated, ready to explore the world beyond academia, embracing the unknown with excitement and gratitude. Read More
HOW THERAPY HELPS SCHOLARS
A PowHERful scholar shares the transformative impact of therapy in navigating life's challenges. Experiencing help through nine different therapists, our scholar found therapy to be a lifeline for depression, anxiety, sexual assault, grief from losing parents, and work-life balance amidst a pandemic. Each therapist addressed specific struggles, from identity exploration to PTSD, equipping her with tools like clear communication and finding joy in the present. Therapy, a privilege, proved invaluable, offering what she feels are enduring skills to help navigate life's complexities. Read More
A JOURNEY OF EMPOWERMENT AND BELONGING
A fortuitous meeting with Soledad O’Brien and a PowHERful scholarship opened doors for Ariana Luz Quiñones—known as Ariluz. She thrived at Smith College, embraced [her/their] Queer and Trans Puerto Rican identity, and now shoulders important leadership roles supporting others. Ariluz worked as a coordinator at Rutgers, then spearheaded influential programs at YWCA, earning a dedicated day in her honor. Despite pandemic challenges, Ariluz found her calling, focusing on youth support at the Sadie Nash Leadership Project. Her dream now centers on establishing a haven for LGBTQIA+ youth, inspired by PowHERful's support, to create a positive ripple effect for future generations. Read More
POWHERFUL TIES – AN INTERGENERATIONAL MENTORSHIP
Kim Bondy, an early mentor at PowHERful, was struck by the drive of her future mentee, Sheba Turk, in a course she taught at the University of New Orleans. Supported by PowHERful, Sheba completed her degree and went on to find success in broadcast journalism as a renowned TV anchor. Kim and Sheba’s relationship transcended mentorship, evolving into a warm, supportive bond amid career challenges. Kim's openness about career missteps guided Sheba, who, in turn, mentored Tassion Minor. While initially questioning her abilities as a mentor, Sheba successfully guided Tassion through college obstacles, passing along wisdom that echoes Kim's valuable lessons about embracing discomfort to learn and grow. Read More
MENTORSHIP BEYOND GUIDANCE
Kim, Sheba, and Tassion's mentorship journey extends beyond guidance, forging a family-like bond. Together, they've cultivated a network of support and inspiration and a space of love and acceptance founded on shared values and ongoing encouragement. Their story exemplifies the depth and impact of intergenerational mentorship through PowHERful. Read More