The Sports Training and Role-models for Success Citywide Girls Initiative (STARS CGI) is a collaboration of ten leading New York City nonprofits (PowerPlay is the lead agency), with missions to support girls and young women of color overcome barriers to success, grow emotionally, academically and physically stronger, and give them the tools that they need to develop as leaders in their communities.
STARS CGI recently hosted – #SelfCareSaturday, which served to connect young women and gender non-conforming youth to resources that supports their overall well-being. The over 200 young people in attendance engaged in amazing discussions and activities around Wellness and Mental Health, while gathering tools that they can use on their own timing. Corporate partner NIKE graciously donated their NYC HQ among other in-kind services to help elevate the experience.
Our panelist lineup consisted of three fantastic women whose authentic and raw approach to self-care captivated our youth audience. They included:
- Akira Armstrong, founder of the Pretty BIG Movement – a dance company catering to plus sized dancers
- Phaidra Knight, former international athlete, sports media talent, motivational speaker, lawyer and business entrepreneur.
- Nicole Cardoza, yoga instructor and entrepreneur passionate about the reclamation of healing.
- Shantae Edwards (Moderator), empowerment speaker and impact coach, committed to motivating, facilitating and building relationships for the purposes of accessing equity, education, social and economic sustainability.
