There is a version of yourself you longed for as a young woman, the one who had guidance, encouragement, and a voice cheering her on when the world doubted her. The woman you are today has the power to become exactly that person, not just for yourself, but for every young woman who will cross your path.
I often reflect on my own journey and think: “If I could go back, what would I have wanted to hear? What would I have needed?” The truth is, I wouldn’t have needed perfection or flawless advice. I would have needed someone who believed in me, someone who reminded me of my worth, and someone who said: “Your dreams matter. Your voice matters. Your story matters.”
Becoming the woman you needed isn’t about heroics or doing everything right. It’s about showing up, with empathy, courage, and authenticity.
1. Start With Yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup. The first step is nurturing yourself, your mind, your heart, your dreams. Speak kindly to yourself. Give yourself grace for mistakes. Celebrate your wins, however small.
When I first started coaching young women, I realized that before I could inspire them, I had to motivate myself daily. Journaling, affirmations, prayer, and reflection became tools that grounded me. They reminded me that I am enough, capable, and worthy of the dreams I hold.
2. Share Your Story
Your story has power. Every challenge you have overcome, every lesson you’ve learned, and every fear you’ve faced can guide someone else. Young women need to see real, relatable examples of resilience and courage, not just highlight reels.
I remember sharing my story with a group of young women, how I started Proudtobeme, the obstacles I faced, and the moments I doubted myself. Afterward, several came up to me, saying, “I thought I was the only one struggling with this.” Your transparency can be a lifeline.
3. Be Present
Sometimes, becoming the woman you needed doesn’t require grand gestures. It’s being present, listening without judgment, mentoring with patience, or offering encouragement when it’s needed most.
A simple conversation, a thoughtful note, or showing up consistently can have a ripple effect. Young women remember those moments, the times someone genuinely cared, believed, and invested in them.
4. Challenge Stereotypes and Expectations
We live in a world that often boxes women into roles or tells us how we should behave. Becoming the woman you needed means challenging those narratives. Show young women that they can lead, create, and thrive on their own terms.
Every time I mentor or speak to young women about entrepreneurship, leadership, or creativity, I remind them: “Your worth isn’t defined by your circumstances, your background, or what others say you should be. You define yourself.”
5. Invest in Their Growth
Teaching skills, sharing opportunities, or guiding someone through a challenge are ways to invest in the women who come after you. Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal, it can be as simple as a supportive conversation, helping someone refine their ideas, or introducing them to someone who can open doors.
I’ve seen young women bloom when given even small opportunities to explore their potential. And the beauty is, the more we invest in others, the more we grow ourselves, learning patience, empathy, and leadership along the way.
6. Lead With Empathy and Grace
Becoming the woman you needed means understanding that everyone is on a journey. People will stumble. They will doubt themselves. They will test boundaries. Respond with patience, guidance, and encouragement.
I often tell young women, “Your mistakes do not define you. How you respond and grow from them does.” Being that voice of compassion and clarity can leave a lasting impact.
7. Leave a Legacy of Possibility
Ultimately, becoming the woman you needed is about creating space for others to dream bigger. When you model courage, resilience, and authenticity, you plant seeds of possibility. Young women who encounter you are inspired not only to survive but to thrive.
Every time a young woman takes a step she thought was impossible, whether starting a business, pursuing education, or standing up for herself, you have played a part. You have become the guide, the cheerleader, and the mentor you once longed for.
Becoming the woman you needed isn’t a destination; it’s a daily choice. Show up for yourself. Show up for others. Speak truth. Lead with love. And watch how your presence transforms lives, one young woman at a time.
When you become the woman you needed, you don’t just change one life, you change generations.