I have been mentoring young African-American girls for about two years now through the program Strong Women, Strong Girls. Through this program, I have learned that these girls need someone to care about them and show them that they are exceptional. I knew growing up as a young, black girl, I had insecurities about my appearance; I struggled with a low self-esteem, and I had trouble displaying confidence due to what people thought of me and what I thought I needed to become in order to be accepted. These issues I had are issues that I see in my mentees, which deeply saddens me because they are phenomenal girls. Now at the age of 20, I have learned to accept myself and be the person I want to be without concerning myself with what people's opinions are of me. I am happy to share my experiences with my mentees and being a part of helping them develop into strong black women. I compiled a list of 30 things I want to say to my mentees and all young, black girls around the world. What I have to say is meant to encourage these young ladies and make it known that they are special.

Here are the 30 things I want to say:

1. You are beautiful no matter what shade you come in.

2. Do not accept that you are pretty for a black girl as a compliment.

3. You are important and let no one tell you otherwise.

4. Your life matters despite what society says.

5. Believe in yourself and you will go far.

6. Never waste your potential.

7. You are not less beautiful just because you have kinky hair.

8. Do not let anyone besides yourself control your happiness.

9. Never give up on your dreams.

10. Have a role model that you can look up to.

11. You do not need a guy to tell you your worth.

12. Take school seriously, what you learn will ultimately help you in life.

13. Get along with each other because if you guys try hard enough, then you will learn that you guys have more in common than you think.

14. Build each other up instead of tearing each other down.

15. There are people out there that care about you.

16. Do not strive to achieve a beauty that is unrealistic.

17. Your talents are meant to be shared with the world.

18. You are not a menace to society.

19. If you are feeling rejected by society, then it is not your loss, it is society's loss.

20. Never listen to a teacher that tells you that you are never going to amount to anything.

21. Have a great support system that builds your self-esteem.

22. You should not be discouraged for being curvy or have a little meat on your bones.

23. Your race and gender should never restrict you from being a leader.

24. Be the best you you can be.

25. Our voice is meant to be heard.

26. Never settle, you deserve the best.

27. Make your mark on the world; I know you can.

28. Learn about yourself and get to know who you are.

29. Respect yourself.

30. Love yourself.

I cannot wait to share these words with my girls this fall and girls all around that need to be told these words more often. More young, black girls need to be set up for success instead of failure due to society's expectations. These girls deserve to know that they are great and can make a difference.