This blog post was written by Nyasiah Colon, a Girls Write Now Mentee & Youth Board Co-Chair.
Four years ago, I began writing to escape the isolation I experienced in middle school due to bullying and my lack of self-esteem. My first short story was entitled “Scarlet Haired Beauty.” The lead character was everything I hoped to be — strong, confident and smart. Little did I know, she would lead me on a journey to Girls Write Now where I have found community, friendship, and leadership. I submitted Scarlet with my Girls Write Now mentee application and was offered the opportunity to participate in an interview for the Program. Shortly thereafter I accepted a position with the Digital Media Mentoring Program that changed my life.
The Digital Media Mentoring Program taught me to transform my words into digital art. Over the last four years I was introduced to coding, podcasting (e.g. sound editing) and video editing. The program also shaped my career path and has been a huge help during the college application process. The Girls Write Now team organizes partnerships and experiences at publishing and technology companies in New York City. In addition, I was a Posse finalist, and I am currently applying to universities that have art and technology programs to continue learning what I started at Girls Write Now. It is my goal to become a game designer.
Girls Write Now isn’t just a writing program; it’s a community. My mentors have been wonderful, creative partners who are generous with their time and talents. My fellow mentees are smart, funny and super creative.
There are other girls who do not yet know what they are capable of, but Girls Write Now is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of women writers.
Your tax-deductible gift this week will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $5,000 by a generous donor. Every donation — big or small —accelerates Girls Write Now’s work to help more young women writers. Double your impact and give now.
I am grateful for the Girls Write Now community for helping me find my voice and for teaching me that I am leadership material. I am strong, smart and growing in confidence. I am Scarlet Haired Beauty, and I will always and forever be a part of the Girls Write Now family.
This holiday season, I hope you will support girls like me.