We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Therese Myers. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Therese below.
Therese, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Finding my purpose was a journey of self-discovery, fueled by a deep-seated belief that I was destined to lead and create change in the world. Despite many moments of doubt where it seemed an impossible task, a pivotal moment of clarity changed everything for me.
I realized that true impact and change were more about benefiting others than about personal gain. As a mother of three daughters, this realization was especially poignant. I wanted more for them in terms of representation and opportunities, but I wasn’t sure how to provide that. It was in contemplating this need that my purpose became clear.
I knew I needed to create a safe and nurturing space for my girls and others like them. A space where they could freely explore their creativity, see potential role models, and envision their future successes. This vision led to the creation of Yes Girls Create, a manifestation of my mission to empower young girls.
Yes Girls Create is more than an organization; it’s the realization of my dream to inspire and nurture the next generation of creative, confident women leaders. My journey from a personal vision to a broader mission has been transformative, not just for me, but for the many lives we’ve touched through our work.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As a corporate executive, non-profit founder, and advocate for an inclusive culture, I would have never imagined that living a life in service would be what truly fuels my soul. With over 30 years of leadership experience in a luxury jewelry company, I’ve always been inspired to lead, motivate others, and coach employees to transition from good to great. I’ve felt a compelling need to ensure that people I connect with recognize their greatness and discover their true gifts.
This drive to inspire and empower naturally extended to my love for children and my desire to cultivate positive leaders. It seemed inevitable that these passions would converge to make a significant impact in my community.
As a wife, mother, and community leader, I understand the importance of nurturing leaders from a young age. This understanding is at the heart of Yes Girls Create. Our mission is to inspire girls aged 8-18 to create, enhance their self-esteem, and encourage them to dream big. My heart is full whenever I think of ways to introduce our girls to positive female leaders in the community, women who are pushing past their fears and dreaming out loud.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the impact of our work, to know that we’re helping shape the next generation of leaders. This journey has shown me the immense value and joy found in serving others, particularly the young minds who will shape our future. Our monthly cohorts are a constant reinforcement to inspire them to dream, each experience has a different creative them where our girls are learn they can do and be anything they can dream of.
We also have an annual BE WELL BE CREATIVE girls conference (Co-led by Everything Be Well) which is a full day of wellness and creative activities lead by female leaders at St. John University on 2.24.24.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The top 3 areas of knowledge that are most impactful for me was understanding that we can not do it alone. Support is key and we have to allow people to show up and support your mission the best way they know. When we operate in our gift and keep it focused on being in service you CAN NOT FAIL. This means “A giving hand is never empty”. Lastly, the most important tip i have for anyone starting out is “Impact is not instant”. We may not see the results of your hard work in one day. Everything will work out and at the right time. Just trust the process.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
As a Black female founder, I’m acutely aware of the challenges that could potentially hold me back, but I’ve made a conscious decision not to let them deter me. One of the most significant hurdles I face is related to financial support. Yes Girls Create operates in a service-based industry, with a core mission to encourage our girls to dream big, live boldly, and embrace their natural gifts. To sustain this mission, securing diverse financial backing is essential.
Although we are a membership-based organization, we firmly believe that financial constraints should never be a barrier to participation. We are committed to ensuring that every girl who wishes to join us can do so, regardless of her financial situation. This philosophy makes the role of donations, fundraising, and corporate financial support incredibly crucial to our operations.
This financial support is not just a contribution; it’s the lifeblood that keeps our heart beating. It enables us to provide quality programming, mentorship, and resources that empower our girls. Every dollar raised helps us to break down barriers, open doors, and create a world where all girls have the opportunity to realize their potential. Despite the challenges, our commitment to this cause and the girls we serve remains unwavering. It’s a journey filled with obstacles, but the impact of our work and the difference we make in the lives of these young girls is a constant source of motivation and fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yesgirlscreateinc.org
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yesgirlscreate_inc
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/yesgirlscreate_inc
- Linkedin: www.Linkedin.com/yesgirlscreate_inc
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/uS5VDH4sxuM?feature=shared
Image Credits
professional headshot and group shot of Therese Myers and Yes Girls Create team Stacy Be Photography (www.stacybephotography.com)
