By Emma Stavens
Mentors and trailblazers can come in all shapes and sizes. On Tuesday night at Bristol Eastern High School, both were on display as the BE Empowered Club hosted their first ever speakers panel. Nine amazing women took to the stage and spoke to their experiences in different careers. The Empowered Club’s mission is to provide support to girls in the BE community and beyond as they embrace their strengths, learn to lead, and consider their future careers.
Each of the women come from a variety of different backgrounds.
- Riley Carbone, Medical Student at Dartmouth College
- Dr. Melanie Edwards-Taveres, President and CEO of Southcoast Community Foundation.
- Violet Giannone, Registered nurse and
- Melissa Jacobs, Senior Litigation Paralegal
- Dr. Gislaine Ngounou, Senior Advisor for Organizational Development at Co-Impact & Learning Heroes; Former Foundation CEO/President
- Officer Caterina Labella, Bristol Police Department
- Cristina McIntyre, Owner of Undone Salon
- Chelsea O’Donnell, Owner of Journey Communications
- Nakiya Troth, Regional Property Operations Director; Former Executive Director of Miss CT Scholarship Organization
Each woman offered a unique perspective on life and gave great advice to help young girls feel empowered. They spoke of challenges, setbacks, and perseverance. In the process, the women told stories of mentors on their own journeys, and the many ways in which they set their paths to success.
The Panel was moderated by members of the club, and their advisor, Ms. Nocera, helped to put the event together.
The evening started with prepared questions from the members of the club, followed by open questions from the audience, and was followed by a meet and greet with refreshments.
Hearing the women’s stories was inspiring and hopefully made those who attended feel empowered to make a change. The club hopes to continue this event and for it to grow in the years to come.
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