YOUNG WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

 

In-School Group Mentoring Program

The in-school group mentoring program is the heart of Young Women of Excellence (YWE). Held weekly during the academic year, it provides consistent, empowering mentorship for girls directly within their school environments. YWE partners with schools across the five boroughs to support students who are at risk of academic failure, chronic absenteeism, suspension, exposure to community violence, or justice system involvement.

YWE is open to all girls, fostering inclusive, nurturing spaces that celebrate identity, encourage resilience, and promote academic and personal growth. In Harlem alone, nearly 64% of girls live in single-parent households, and over 90% qualify for free or reduced lunch, reflecting systemic challenges that disproportionately affect young women of color. Additionally, Harlem reports one of the city’s highest rates of school absenteeism among girls, linked to both mental health challenges and unmet socio-emotional needs.

Our mentors—many of whom are women of color from the same communities—are trained, relatable, and passionate about uplifting the next generation of female leaders. They serve as role models, advocates, and champions of each student’s potential.

The results speak volumes. After one year in YWE, participants show an average 24% GPA increase, a 78% reduction in disciplinary referrals, and improved attendance. Teachers and administrators report noticeable improvements in behavior, confidence, and classroom engagement. We track outcomes through academic records, behavioral data, surveys, personal testimonies, and partnerships with local universities for independent evaluations.

We teach our young girls the importance and power of G.R.A.C.E

(Gratitude,  Respect, Accountability, Caring, and Excellence)

Young Men & Women of Excellence - YME/YWE  is an innovative year-round mentoring and leadership academy developed and designed to matriculate youth ages 9 - 18, from young boys and girls to great young men & women of excellence. We teach our youth the importance and power of G.R.A.C.E (Gratitude,  Respect, Accountability, Caring, and Excellence!). Our mission is to mentor, motivate, guide, enlighten goals, provide opportunities, and to build communities of young men and women that will work together empowering each other. We believe  young men and women must take initiative and become the change they want to see, advocate for justice, understand the difference between right from wrong, be accountable, strive to become successful and become young men & women of excellence.

 

At Young Women of Excellence (YWE), our philosophy is simple: We are here to uplift and empower our girls.

Our community-based mentoring model serves girls ages 8–18 across elementary, middle, and high schools. We are dedicated to creating safe, nurturing spaces where young women receive consistent support through school partnerships and community outreach.

PROGRAM ELEMENTS

Our comprehensive mentoring program includes:

WEEKLY MENTORSHIP IN ACTION

Each week, YWE mentors visit schools to offer something many girls are missing: a supportive, consistent community of positive female role models.

In these group sessions, girls experience:

  • A sisterhood of mentors who listen, inspire, and empower them

  • Positive role models who demonstrate strength, compassion, self-respect, and integrity

  • A safe space where they can speak their truth and grow with confidence

  • Encouragement to embrace their individuality and recognize their worth

  • The understanding that they are not alone—others share their experiences and journeys

WHAT HAPPENS IN A YWE MEETING?

Weekly meetings focus on building leadership, self-esteem, resilience, and character. Sessions include peer mentoring, self-discovery activities, and opportunities for young women to uplift and support one another.

Meetings are led by YWE lead mentors and supported by trained volunteers. Groups typically include 12 to 18 girls, with an average mentor-to-student ratio of 1 mentor for every 8 girls, allowing for personalized guidance and attention.

OUR MISSION

The mission of Young Women of Excellence is to mentor, motivate, guide, and empower young women to discover their voice, embrace their power, and lead with purpose through G.R.A.C.E.
(Gratitude, Respect, Accountability, Caring, Excellence)

We believe young women of excellence must:

  • Step into leadership and be the change they wish to see

  • Use their voices to advocate for themselves and others

  • Recognize their inner strength and worth

  • Embrace accountability and self-love

  • Strive for excellence and lead with confidence

At YWE, we don’t just mentor girls—we help them rise as Young Women of Excellence.