Empowernest Inspires Connection and Boosts Confidence

In a world where young women face many challenges, friendship and camaraderie can be transformative and through Empowernest, an innovative new Salvation Army program, opportunities for personal growth can be achieved.

The six-week program for girls aged 13 and 14 is filled with engaging activities, but within that fun is the chance to make new friends, learn from each other and develop skills to help them as they enter high school.

Ten young women participated in the London Community and Family Services program, including 13-year-old Malak Darwish, who says the program helped her overcome her shyness and make new friends.

“I found girls similar to me, and we have become friends. I discovered confidence in myself and that I should be more confident in talking to people,” Malak explains. “In school that will help me make more friends because I am not the person that would go up to someone and talk to people.”

Malak says she most enjoyed the baking and painting sessions, as she enjoys those hobbies in her spare time. Through Empowernest, she reconnected with friends from her former school who also participated in the program. These bonds build deep personal connections, trust, and encouragement within a supportive group.

“Discovering their unique strengths and building confidence before high school can help girls embrace their true selves and navigate their journey with authenticity and self-assurance,” says Nicole Pelcz, Salvation Army Community and Family Services outreach worker. “We want them to know that it’s okay to stand out and be different—those qualities that make them special.”

Visit www.londoncfs.ca for a list of vital programs and services in London. To support these and other life-changing experiences for people across Ontario, please donate today at www.salvationarmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.