Mentoring program teaches girls how to be ladies
Magnolia Middle School girls received a gift of pearls yesterday after completing a mentorship program focused on womanhood.
“Just like a pinning ceremony for nurses, we wanted to pearl them today. Pearls are one of the most precious gems in the world,” said Judge Veldore Young, who emceed the event.
Sponsored by the Agape Storehouse Apostolic Church and Ella W. Ministries, the program was designed to help girls through their transition years.
“We mentor them on etiquette, what it means to be a lady, and how to take a stand in life in terms of being yourself,” said Linda Williams, co-pastor of Agape.
Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade girls each received a necklace, bracelet, and earrings as a symbol of what their futures may hold.
“[A pearl] is when a little piece of grit or sand or any type of irritant that gets into the oyster shell. The oyster protects itself by making a beautiful pearl. We also want to teach them that they’re going to have obstacles in life and that they can’t forgo life without obstacles,” said Young.
Soraya Conley, who participated in the program, said she believes the program was helpful to all girls.
“Some young ladies don’t come from the same home environment. So, maybe they need somebody to carry them and need a shoulder to lean on.”
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