Meet Tyra Moore

We recently connected with Tyra Moore and have shared our conversation below.

Tyra, 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?

I discovered my purpose through the challenges and life choices I faced as a teenager. Navigating the journey of being a teen mom forced me to confront the responsibilities of adulthood and helped me understand what I needed to do to grow and provide for my child.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am the Founder and Executive Director of A Girl Like Me Inc., an organization that is deeply rooted in my personal journey. My story began in 2007 when, at the age of 14, I unexpectedly found myself pregnant, a reality I hid from everyone around me. Just days after giving birth, my mother discovered the truth, and in that pivotal moment, our world changed. Although I was initially unprepared, my family, friends, and community rallied around me to ensure that both my baby and I had everything we needed. Their unwavering support lasted for years, and during that time, I made a promise to myself: I would one day pay it forward by helping young girls, teens, and mothers facing similar circumstances.

Fast forward to today, and I stand proud of my perseverance. I completed high school, pursued further education, and now I am happily married with two additional children. My experiences have instilled in me a profound desire to create a nurturing environment for other young girls, particularly those like me. It is my mission to educate them not only on how to prevent teenage pregnancy but also to equip them with essential skills and support should they find themselves in that position.

What makes A Girl Like Me Inc. truly unique is the power of my story as a teen mother. I know firsthand the challenges that come with early parenthood, and I also know the importance of community support. The generosity I received without question inspires me to ensure that other girls have access to the same kindness and resources, while also working to prevent such situations from occurring in the future.

I believe it is vital for everyone to approach others with compassion and understanding. We never truly know the circumstances others face, and I am committed to fostering a spirit of empathy and support. God has placed us in this world to uplift one another, and that is precisely what I strive to achieve through A Girl Like Me Inc.

As we continue our mission, I am excited to announce that A Girl Like Me Inc. will be hosting our 3rd Annual Prom for Teen Moms aged 17 to 100 who missed their high school prom due to parenthood. This special event will take place on August 24th, offering these incredible young women the opportunity to celebrate in style. Additionally, we will be launching a new parenting class designed specifically for teen and young moms aged 17 to 25. In this program, we will focus on pivotal topics such as Crucial Conversations, Financial Literacy, Social and Emotional Learning, and Communication Skills. Together, we can empower the next generation of mothers to thrive. #AGirlLikeMe

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?

Reflecting on my journey, I believe three qualities were particularly impactful: resilience, empathy, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

1. **Resilience**: Overcoming the challenges of becoming a teen mom taught me the importance of resilience. Life can throw unexpected obstacles our way, and having the ability to bounce back and keep pushing forward is crucial. For those early in their journeys, I advise developing a resilient mindset by embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Practice positive self-talk, set achievable goals, and always remind yourself of your strengths.

2. **Empathy**: My experiences instilled in me a deep sense of empathy for others who face similar struggles. Understanding and connecting with others on a human level has been vital in building supportive relationships and communities. My advice for developing empathy is to actively listen to others’ stories, seek to understand their perspectives, and engage in volunteer work or community service. This will help you appreciate diverse experiences and cultivate a compassionate approach.

3. **Commitment to Lifelong Learning**: The journey to personal and professional growth is ongoing, and a commitment to continuous learning has been essential for me. Whether through formal education, workshops, or self-study, expanding your knowledge and skills can open new doors. For those starting out, I encourage you to embrace curiosity. Read widely, seek mentors, and don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone by taking on new challenges.

In conclusion, these qualities—resilience, empathy, and a commitment to lifelong learning—have shaped my path and continue to guide me. For anyone embarking on their own journey, focusing on these areas will not only help you navigate the challenges but also enrich your life and the lives of those around you. Stay dedicated to your growth, support others, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goals.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

One of the most significant challenges we currently face is securing the funding necessary to establish our own resource hub for the community. The vision for this hub is to create a dedicated space where individuals, particularly young mothers and at-risk teenagers, can access essential support services, educational resources, and a safe environment to connect with one another.

Currently, we rely on various grants, donations, and fundraising efforts to fuel our initiatives, but these resources are often limited and do not always provide the consistent funding needed for long-term sustainability. This challenge is compounded by the growing demand for our services, as more individuals in the community are reaching out for assistance.

To tackle this issue, we are actively exploring multiple avenues for funding. This includes applying for larger grants, partnering with local businesses and organizations for sponsorship opportunities, and organizing community fundraising events. Additionally, we are seeking to raise awareness about our mission and the critical need for a resource hub within the community, hoping to engage more stakeholders who share our vision.

We believe that with the right funding, our resource hub can become a lifeline for those who need it most, providing comprehensive support and fostering a sense of community. We remain committed to finding creative solutions and mobilizing our networks to turn this vision into reality, and we are optimistic that with persistence and determination, we will be able to overcome this challenge and make a meaningful impact in the lives of the individuals we serve.

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