UCF’s chapter of Jewels, a newly registered student organization focused on mentorship of urban girls, hosts its first general body meeting at the Nicholson School of Communication on Wednesday.
Courtesy of Kyla Monts
A national nonprofit organization centered around creating a safe, positive environment for “young urban girls,” has officially expanded to UCF, and hosted its first general body meeting Wednesday.
Jewels, Inc., founded at Howard University in 2006, aims to develop future leaders and promote social activism, according to its website. The organization emphasizes mentorship and service through its partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of America, a national nonprofit that provides after-school and summer programs for youth.
The meeting, open to both current and prospective members, was held in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media building and was inspired by the movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.” The organization used the movie to discuss common red flags in relationships.
Syven Walker, senior biology major and vice president of the UCF branch of Jewels attended the event and said she was excited to bring the organization to UCF.
“I feel as though Jewels, Inc., offers something different with our mentorship program working alongside the Boys & Girls Club,” Walker said. “I can’t wait to see how we impact the youth.”
Two potential members said they were excited to be there and hopeful about what joining the organization could mean for them.
“I’m looking forward to being able to volunteer and mentor kids with Jewels,” Melva Diei, junior industrial engineering major, said. “I’m hoping to make a meaningful impact.”
The organization will host Jewels Week Feb. 16-20, offering students a chance to meet current members, learn the organization’s history, make new friends and experience sisterhood.
“I can’t wait to give back to a community which has provided me with so much love and support,” Kaitlin McKay-Cohen, junior sociology major, said.