In honor of National Mentoring Month, Strong Women, Strong Girls is asking our partners what mentoring and the SWSG mission means to them. Clara Sierra, a national Board Member, shares her SWSG story:
What inspired you to support SWSG, and what speaks to you about the SWSG mission?
I was looking for an organization to support, one that focused on teaching lessons about great women in history to young, school-aged girls. What I was surprised to find was the amazing college age women doing the mentoring and teaching. I was very impressed with the young girls and young women who make up the program.
The entire SWSG organization, its mission, and the impact it has on girls and women speaks to me. SWSG works very hard to “create cycles of mutual empowerment for women and girls.” The work being done at SWSG inspires me daily.
Why do you think mentoring is important?
I have found in my life and career, you can’t possibly do it “alone.” In order to be successful, happy and balanced – you need help. To me, that comes in the form of mentors and mentoring. It is very important to be and have a mentor.
Have you had a mentor who impacted you?
Yes, I have had and currently have many mentors who have made a huge impact on who I am today. A BIG THANKS TO ALL MY MENTORS!
In your experiences with SWSG, do you have a favorite moment or story to share that expresses the impact of the SWSG mentoring program?
When the young girls have an opportunity to visit the colleges of their mentors. To witness that experience and to see how the minds of those young girls open up to the possibility that one day, they, too, can go to a college or a university. It’s thrilling to watch. That is one of my favorite moments!