
Marlena Simmons
White Plains High School students at the International Day of the Girl conference at Manhattanville College
Sixteen White Plains students attended the International Day of the Girl conference on October 9, an event focused on empowering female-identifying students while teaching valuable lessons and future skills. The conference was held at Manhattanville College and is the result of a partnership between the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Sister to Sister International, a non-profit dedicated to strengthening women and promoting African culture.
Students who attended had the opportunity to hear from a variety of Westchester County officials and speakers, including Keynote speaker Lauren Morris, a local entrepreneur. Morris created her own brand of designer bags, facing challenges such as rejection from department stores and COVID shutdowns; she spoke about her experience as a rising female business owner, sending a powerful message about the importance of persistence and risk-taking.
In addition to speakers, students had the opportunity to attend two of a variety of workshops. These were interactive small-group activities designed to educate, inspire and prepare students for a future world. Workshops such as AI for Youth, Mirror Magic, Girls4Tech, and Candy Consent taught skills such as digital literacy, self-esteem, business design and consent. Others focused on email etiquette, confidence in a professional world and career readiness.
Thank you to the Youth Bureau and Sister to Sister International for organizing and Manhattanville College for hosting such a valuable conference!