By: Lennard James
Memphis is a city with a rich cultural legacy, known for its creativity, resilience, and community spirit. Yet beneath its vibrant surface, many women and girls face barriers that limit their opportunities and hinder their potential. That’s where I Am She steps in, determined to break cycles of poverty, restore confidence, and open doors to brighter futures.
The organization’s mission is clear: “To provide opportunities for young girls and women to develop healthy lifestyles, advance their knowledge for lifetime learning, and build communities of support.” The I Am She Mentoring Program believes there are no limits to a young woman’s potential and works tirelessly to create spaces that inspire, motivate, and cultivate confidence.
I Am She’s approach is both holistic and deeply personal. Participants are paired with mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and accountability. These mentors help women set and achieve goals—whether that means graduating high school, enrolling in college, launching a business, or simply building a healthier lifestyle.
The program offers a variety of services, including academic support, job readiness training, leadership development, and personal wellness workshops. By addressing both internal growth and external opportunities, I Am She ensures that its participants are not just inspired but also prepared to take actionable steps toward their goals.
What sets I Am She apart is its deep integration into the Memphis community. The organization actively partners with schools, local businesses, churches, and civic leaders to connect women with resources and opportunities. These collaborations have led to internships, job placements, and scholarships for program participants.
Photo Courtesy: I Am She
I Am She also recognizes the importance of visibility and advocacy. Beyond direct service, the organization hosts community events, public forums, and awareness campaigns to highlight issues impacting women and girls in Memphis. These efforts not only raise awareness but also rally community support for systemic change.
The impact is undeniable. Women who have gone through I Am She’s programs have gone on to achieve personal and professional milestones they once thought impossible. Many return to the organization as mentors, eager to give back to the community that supported them.
In neighborhoods across Memphis, you can see the ripple effects: families strengthened, young girls inspired to aim higher, and communities becoming more cohesive and resilient. The organization’s belief that empowered women empower communities is not just a slogan—it’s a reality they see unfolding every day.
I Am She is not simply reacting to challenges; it’s building a future where every woman in Memphis has the tools, the network, and the belief in herself to thrive. The organization envisions a city where women’s voices are heard, their talents are recognized, and their leadership shapes the community.
Anyone interested in joining the movement, becoming a mentor, or supporting their work can visit www.iamshememphis.org to learn more.
In Memphis, I Am She is more than a name; it’s a statement and a commitment to every woman who has ever doubted her worth: You are seen. You are capable. You are unstoppable.
