Black History Month One-On-One: Felicia Gibson Jaycox
Anchored By 1010 WINS' Larry Mullins
Produced for 1010 WINS Radio by Sharon Barnes-Waters
NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- With a mission to inspire teen girls in New York City "to dream big and empower them with the necessary tools to realize their dreams," it's no wonder Felicia Gibson Jaycox is a 2015 Black History Month honoree.
The CEO and founder of Harlem-based The Power of You Teens said the program has grown successful over the years through word of mouth within the community.
"I always say we're changing the world one girl at a time," Gibson Jaycox said. "...Every month we get together and we have these Power Girl meetings, and it's all about improving their self-esteem and self confidence and making them feel great about themselves."
Part of the success of The Power of You Teens is the support from the parents in the community.
"The moms love the program," Gibson Jaycox said. "As a matter of fact, for our Power Girl workshops, the moms aren't just dropping the girls off. The moms are bringing the girls in and staying for the program because they enjoy it so much as well."
More: Black History Month Photo Gallery | Larry's Blog: Felicia Gibson Jaycox
One of the programs, Dove Day, places an emphasis on a young girl's contribution from the heart and mind, rather than their outward appearance.
"Our girls are exposed to so many negative images and Dove Day is all about making a girl feel powerful from the inside," Gibson Jaycox said.
The former model and television host said it's amazing to see such a transformation in some of the girls who attend the program.
"...One of my girls, when she came in, just kind of very, very shy, just kind of head down, and just sat back and observed everything that was going on," she said. And now, "She's just ready to tackle the world."
Web Extras: Thepowerofyouteens.com | Full Interview With Felicia Gibson Jaycox
Gibson Jaycox said she tells her girls all the time that it's all about poise, posture and how you carry yourself.
And despite many opportunities and other projects on the horizon, Gibson Jaycox said she plans to continue her work with The Power of You Teens.
"To me, when I think about a life that is well lived...I think about a life of service," she said. "I have dedicated my life to being of service to these girls and to the world."
