MADETOLEAD
MADEXXX
S T R O N G W O M E N C R E AT E
STRONG GIRLS
THE POWER
OF ROLE
MODELS
S
ociety is in a state where there seem to be
fault lines across just about any and all social
groups. It is vital that young children and today’s
youth of all race, color and creed, have a positive
role model to guide them. By definition, a role
model is a person whose behavior, example or
success can be emulated by others especially
by younger people. Role models are especially
important for young girls, and young black
girls who history has provided with less women
to look up to. Despite the strides women have
made through the women’s suffrage movement,
they still struggle to have their voices be heard
in areas that have traditionally been male
dominated such as the board room, politics, and
just about any position of power.
Young girls grow into strong women with
the help and support of positive role models,
which are not always easy to find in underserved
communities. Through the influence of role
models, females of all ages shape their own
potential and confidence by looking to women
in their lives that have traveled tough paths
before them. It is hard for these young girls to
MADE BY
THERESA SIAW
imagine being something they have never been
able to look at before.
In neighborhoods that are known for chronic
poverty, crime and a lack of resources to all
youth, there is a much greater chance and risk of
poor outcomes for those children. According to
research done by Urban Institute, females that
grow up in these types of neighborhoods face
gender specific risks from sexual harassment,
exploitation, pressure and sexual violence. While
role models in these types of communities
may not be easily found in plain sight, they are
always there. Some simple ways for members
of these communities to locate and identify
them is to ask other women about their lives
and work, whether it be a teacher, shop owner,
or whomever it may be. They likely have an
inspirational journey to encourage staying
strong and following one’s dreams.
With proper role models, these girls are able to
made-magazine.com |
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