Meet Chantia Thompson | Executive Director, Girlz Empowered

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chantia Thompson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chantia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I wanted to start Girlz Empowered because I saw a need for young girls to have a safe space where they would be seen and heard. But also have a place where they can be their selves without judgement, learn about boundaries, taking care of their minds and body, while also being empowered to learn and try new things. This program was a way for girls who could not afford they afterschool activities where there was a fee to come and not have to worry about anything as there is no fee and we provided the supplies and materials.

When I was growing up, I needed a space like what we have created for the girls. The young ladies are creating the space and setting the tone for what they want within their group. I started and kept this organization going because I know there is a need for authentic women leaders who are passionate about working with community youth and not afraid to work with the kids they label “bad, out of control, etc.” I have a lived experience with feeling how a lot of these kids do. I show up so they know I care; I want to help, and I am a trusted adult who will listen and help them as much as I can and as they put in the effort.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It has been a long 5 years getting my program where it needs to be. I am proud of how far I’ve come in a short time and through a pandemic. Things were uncertain at times going through that. Funding was a worry, still is at times, but we do our best to raise funds, apply for grant opportunities, and donations. I had issues with finding reliable staff. Four years I had to do everything by myself. I was ready to give up at times and just wanted to find a consistent setting to run my program. God wouldn’t let me give up. The kids wouldn’t let me. I was showing up for them and I knew I had to be the example that we are not stuck and can get through many challenges if we do the work to help ourselves and others help us also.

I really love what I do! I am always thinking of what I can do next or more that will better support today’s youth. On this journey I had to be very patient and understanding of some community challenges and issues that may arise with working with youth. I was prepared and up for anything. I made sure anyone I partnered with or hired was authentic about working with children and not just in it for just a paycheck. Anyone can work with kids but not everyone will really care to help guide them and break generation curses.

Currently we are collaborating with schools for more consistent afterschool and summer program for the girls. I am excited about these new opportunities and growth within my business. We have support from moms, dads and grandparents which has been a great help. We all are supporting the youth ladies and being the village that is raising them to reach new heights.

I teach from a lived experience and have had training to better serve the community youth I work with. I am always looking for new was to engage and learn more knowledge to help support the challenge and barriers young ladies face in a disadvantage community. Yearly I take trainings and continue education to stay up to date with date driven practices that will not only help the youth. But help myself so I can show up ready to serve knowing my mind and heart is in the right place. I want to be there not because I have to be and that is a big difference.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some of my favorite spots around the city is Belle Isle State Park and downtown Detroit. If I were showing a friend around, I would start with some of our local parks and activities for all ages. There are so many walkable trails, bike routes and outdoor activities no one would get bored here. Lunch or dinner at one of our many great restaurants in the city would be next. We have cuisines to treat all pallets. Whether your vegan or looking for homestyle meals Detroit has you covered. My favorite brunch spot is The Dime Store and that is aways my favorite place to take someone who has not been. Visiting the orchards while here is a must. We have some that have haunted hayrides, warm cider and Carmel apples for a treat. Tt really is so many opportunities to choose from any friend of mine would have plenty to see and do while visiting!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to shoutout my program team for believing in the mission and taking their passions that aligned with mine so we could make a bigger impact in the community, together.

Website: https://www.goodvibzyoga.com/girlzempowered

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlz.empowered/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantia-thompson/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GirlzEmpoweredClub