This afternoon, I am deeply moved and profoundly enriched. Today, I had the privilege of meeting the family of my exceptional Girls of Legacy mentee, Alaiysha, an outstanding STEM major at Texas A&M University. Her family made their first journey to America to attend her A&M Ring ceremony. We enjoyed a delightful lunch together, where I was able to engage with them personally. As her mother, Terri, expressed her gratitude for my role as Alaiysha's coach and mentor, and shared her personal impact story after reading my book, LostGirl, I was genuinely touched.
When I initiated the Girls of Legacy program three years ago, I could not have anticipated the profound, lifelong impact it would have on these extraordinary young women. The program has not only offered support and guidance but has also empowered these women to make a global impact in their communities and beyond.
Our charitable contributions, received through our 501(c)(3) organization, LaunchPad, enabled Terri, her husband, and their 3-year-old son to visit the United States for the first time, allowing them to celebrate Alaiysha’s significant Texas A&M ring ceremony. This event marked not only her academic accomplishments but also a monumental milestone for their family, as she is the first to attend college.
This embodies the very reason for my work and efforts in building the Girls of Legacy Program. A particular statement from today's meeting will remain with me: “Because she has you, Ms. Rebecca, I know she will succeed. Alaiysha is the FIRST in our entire family in Jamaica, across generations, to attend college. She has broken the cycle, just as you did in your own story with LostGirl. I was eager to meet you in person to express my gratitude.”
Indeed, she has broken that cycle, and I am filled with pride as I consider Alaiysha’s future. Soar, Alaiysha, soar! I eagerly anticipate witnessing the remarkable ways in which she will change the world and inspire others to follow her path. The journey ahead is promising, and I am thrilled to support and encourage her on this transformative journey.
RC
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