Dr. Cheryl Watkins, YWCA Metro St. Louis president and CEO, holds an MBA and a commitment to make sure young women have a path into the business world if they desire.
She knows the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education and the doors it opens.
Her mission includes the YWCA partnering with Ulta Beauty and the I Define Me Movement to host “Pretty Empowered” on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Phyllis Wheatley Heritage Center.
The girls in attendance received “life-changing well-being resources, [that bring] transformative experiences to young women in the region,” according to Watkins.
Pretty Empowered is designed to engage students through a series of interactive sessions that focus on various aspects of wellness, cosmetic science, supply chain logistics, and career exploration.
“Our partnership with Ulta Beauty allows us to bring valuable resources and mentorship to young women and girls in our community,” said Watkins.
“The Pretty Empowered initiative is a meaningful opportunity for girls to envision bright futures in STEM and beyond while strengthening their well-being and sense of self. We are proud to offer this program that not only educates but empowers each participant to pursue their dreams.”
The program emphasizes the importance of self-care and confidence, the exploration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, and creating a positive sense of connection, aiming to inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders.
Launched in 2022 by YWCA Metropolitan Chicago with funding from the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation, the Pretty Empowered initiative has grown in scope and impact.
Initially starting with a single site, the program grew to four locations in 2023 and hosted 400 participants.
YWCA and Ulta Beauty have doubled the program’s impact, seeking to reach 800 participants at eight local associations nationwide, including YWCA Metro St. Louis, YWCA El Paso Del Norte Region, YWCA Glendale & Pasadena, YWCA Greater Atlanta, YWCA Kitsap County, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, YWCA Northern New Jersey, and YWCA South Florida.
Watkins called the increased participation “a significant milestone in the program’s mission to empower young women and girls through education and career exploration.”
Ulta Beauty’s support has been instrumental in the initiative’s growth. Through its Charitable Foundation, the company supports “the holistic well-being of women and teens – a mission that aligns perfectly with YWCA USA’s goal to eliminate racism and empower women,” according to a release.
“Together, we are creating a platform that not only educates but also inspires participants to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.”
“We are incredibly excited to expand the ‘Pretty Empowered’ initiative this year,” said YWCA USA CEO, Margaret Mitchell.
“Our partnership with Ulta Beauty and the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation allows us to reach more young women and girls, providing them with invaluable resources and opportunities to explore their sense of well-being, interests in STEM and leadership.
“This program is a testament to our commitment to empowering the next generation and fostering a diverse and inclusive future.”
According to a study commissioned by the Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, “Empowering more women of color to pursue and thrive in STEM careers would help create a dynamic and innovative workforce that can advance the country’s competitiveness in a technology-driven global economy.”
The Pretty Empowered events feature hands-on workshops, mentorship opportunities, and discussions led by industry professionals.
Participants gained insight into critical well-being resources and the cosmetic industry’s scientific and logistical aspects while developing essential leadership and life skills.
According to YWCA Chicago, 89% of girls who participated in ‘Pretty Empowered’ agreed or strongly agreed that they understood the value of self-care and self-confidence and 90% said that they better understood the value of leadership.
“Through my involvement with YWCA, I have seen firsthand the power of helping young women and girls gain the confidence and capabilities they need to believe, dream and pursue their passions,” Amiee Bayer-Thomas, chief store operations officer at Ulta Beauty and board member for YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, said in a release.