My name is Amoni Poole. I am 18 years old, and I am a senior at William M. Raines High School. I will graduate with the class of 2024 and will be attending Florida State College at Jacksonville, majoring in nursing.

I have been in Girls Inc. since I was in the 11th grade. Before I got to high school, I always told myself that when I got there, I would not participate in anything, and I didn’t want any friends. I was very anti-social before joining the program, but I gave it a try and met some amazing women. Since being in the program, I have been on top of my academic life and networking with people who can put me in higher positions.

I really enjoy being in this program. It feels good to know that you have help from different women in this program. Ms. Brenda has done a lot for me by always helping to further my education by meeting great people who can impact my future. Girls Inc. has had a positive impact on my life because I enjoy working with girls around my age who are also trying to be successful in life. Girl Inc. is all about sisterhood and lifting one another up.

Throughout my high school experience, Ms. Brenda and my mentor Ms. Alexis have been very supportive of me. They are always there for me whenever I need to vent, or feel down, and to help celebrate the good times. I used to be very closed-minded and not open to trying new things, but they were always there to assure me of the good things to come. I am very appreciative of them because I don’t feel alone, and they assure me that it’s a safe space and feel comfortable. This program has helped me as a person by talking to people I normally wouldn’t talk to and building friendships I normally wouldn’t.

Girls Inc. has taught me to open up more and be more responsible. By being responsible I have the responsibility of being the president of Girls Inc. and a member of the National Honors Society. Being open to trying new things has helped me to expand my knowledge. You can’t come across many people who care for you and are willing to have patience with you like this program. This program gives you the opportunity to speak with many people who can make an impact on your career. No idea or future is silly when it comes to this program, instead, these women can help achieve your goals.

To my mentor Ms. Alexis and Ms. Brenda thank you for giving me a chance and believing in me when I wasn’t so sure of myself. I appreciate the love and support you guys have offered me these last few years. I will continue to think of you all on my journey to success because y’all are a part of the young woman I have become today. Again, thank you for the love you give me daily.

To all the young ladies out there: start giving things a try and adjusting to change. Start reaching out to people you normally wouldn’t, they can help you in the long run. It’s okay to be shy and to yourself but starting to make small conversations with people can be beneficial. Don’t be afraid to share your goals and ideas, remember anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions because no question is dumb it can be a key reminder for you in the long run. Remember you are the one who chooses your life, so think wisely before making a decision.