The Salvation Army Empowers Young Women Through BRAVE Programming
Each spring, The Salvation Army in Moncton, N.B., hosts BRAVE, a special event designed for girls aged 12-18, focused on fostering empowerment and solidarity among young women.
More than a one-day event, BRAVE is part of an international movement launched in 2014 to educate, uplift and support young girls from vulnerable backgrounds. The program provides a safe and inclusive space where nearly 60 participants each year can be themselves, feel supported, and discover their inner strength.
“We want to encourage girls and show them they can do anything; that there are people who care and will support them,” said Natasha Burkett, director of Moncton Community and Family Services. “We want them to feel seen and know they matter. BRAVE gives them a chance to connect with strong women, learn tips for positive mental health and engage in confidence building activities.”
This year’s event began with a lively welcome session where the girls decorated tote bags to use throughout the day for collecting resources, swag and other goodies. The group then gathered to learn more about BRAVE and the purpose behind it, participating in an empowerment chant that set a positive and energetic tone for the day.
Participants rotated through a series of engaging breakout sessions, including a vision board workshop, a DIY nail salon, and a relaxing yoga class. The day concluded with a shared dinner featuring a pasta and salad bar buffet, topped off with gourmet desserts prepared by a local pastry chef.
Reflecting on the event, Burkett shared, “BRAVE has the potential to make a deeply meaningful and lasting impact on local youth, especially young girls. It provides a safe and encouraging space for girls to explore their strengths, express themselves, and realize their value. Sometimes just knowing someone is listening and cares can be life-changing. BRAVE sends a clear message: you matter. That kind of affirmation can boost self-esteem and help combat feelings of isolation, especially for girls who may be struggling silently.”
For The Salvation Army, BRAVE is about more than a single day – it’s about building a lasting, supportive community. Thanks to the dedication of a passionate team of community members, the event continues to grow and thrive in the Greater Moncton area. This year marks an exciting milestone with the introduction of BRAVE CIRCLES – follow up gatherings to keep the connection alive year around. The first BRAVE CIRCLE, a community picnic, is set to take place mid-May.
To learn more about programming like BRAVE in your community, or to donate, please visit salvationarmy.ca/Atlantic to find your closest Salvation Army location.