On Thursday, May 9, 2024, Empowerment Resources, Inc. gathered to celebrate a significant milestone: the 20th annual Journey Into Womanhood Celebration. This event, marking two decades of profound impact, brought together community volunteers, sponsors, family, and friends to honor and reflect on the positive changes and growth fostered through the Journey Into Womanhood (JIW) program. 

This year’s theme, The Wiz, was shared throughout the night as guests joined us in The Land of ERI among emerald lights and our very own yellow brick road. Dorothy, a lioness, a scarecrow, and a tinwoman joined us to share special awards for intellect, heart, and courage to a few JIW participants. This year’s awards also included The Flowers EmpowerHer Scholar Award, a special presentation to two of our rising seniors presented by JIW Alum Mia Flowers and her parents. Seven alumnae from various graduating classes joined us to commemorate the event. 

Journey Into Womanhood is a 25-week rite of passage program that helps young girls make the healthy transition from girl to young woman. The program includes workshops, enrichment trips, and community service projects to introduce young girls to the “12 Vital Aspects” of life. The annual celebration marks a culmination of the program year. News4Jax Anchor Brianna Andrews returned as our wonderful emcee.

Guests in attendance enjoyed live music by JIW alum, Nikayla Byirt known creatively as Nikayla and the PhuNK while networking at the pre event reception and participated in our chance drawing. Guests also enjoyed a performance by JIW participants Maleah and Marae B. This year’s event included special fundraising efforts through our Empower the Purse drawing. One lucky ticket holder went home with a brand new Silver & Riley handbag.

The success of the Journey Into Womanhood program is due in large part to the investment of community members, sharing their financial resources and time as volunteer mentors and presenters to advance our mission of helping girls in our community make the healthy transition to young women. 

You can download the program booklet by clicking here. You can view the photo gallery by clicking here. 

Thank you to our 2024 event sponsors!

Thank you to our donations for the chance drawing: 

Adinah Johnson 

Alligator Farm 

Andrea Kemp

Arden Ward 

Bravoz 

Cathryn  Bartley 

Chad Smith

Constance Faulk

Daphne Colbert 

Dr. Theron Douglas / Dr. Derrick McElveen / Every Day Fresh Club 

Elexia Moss 

Hemming Jewelers

iFly 

Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp

Jacksonville Sharks 

Jasmine Brooks

Kendra Scott 

Kimmie Walker 

Markin Barnes / Sho’Off Kuts & Accessories 

Naajia EL-Amin 

Natalie Mitchell / N’sentials 

Penelope Knox 

PRP Wine Tasting 

Skate Station of Mandarin

Valla Brown 

Veronica Ward

There’s still time for you to show your support of ERI by giving an anniversary gift to the Journey Into Womanhood program. It’s truly a brand new day because of supporters like you!

Author: Jasmine J.