The Empowering Young Women club is just one of many clubs that RHS has to offer! The club focuses on creating a safe space for women throughout the school, as well as fun events and activities such as their iconic tailgate booths.
This year, Mrs. Cantwell is the new sponsor of the club. Although she’s sponsored an honors society in the past, she felt particularly honored when students approached her to ask about taking on the role.
She said that, “they’re incredibly independent and have already done an amazing job organizing and planning activities.” She is especially proud of the club’s fun events, including the “Barbie” themed tailgate booth that she witnessed the club working hard to organize. She expresses that the club is filled with very strong and independent young women.
Martes Chaves, the club’s Vice President, joined Empowering Young Women after spending her childhood in several different countries. Her diverse experiences opened her eyes to a universal truth: no matter where you are, women face discrimination.
“The club is a support system,” Marti explained, “a place to unite and uplift women.” She specifically values the sense of collaboration that the group develops. She furthered this by saying, “I love coming together with other women who support each other and help build confidence!”
Marti looks forward to seeing the club grow closer in the coming months, creating a safe space where everyone can collaborate and thrive.
Cora, a dedicated member of the club, was drawn to Empowering Young Women by its mission and the club’s name. “I believed in what the club stands for, and I hoped it would be a place where I could advocate for girls,” Cora said. She describes the club as a platform for young women to take on leadership roles and work together on meaningful projects.
One such project she coordinated was creating a canvas titled “Sisterhood,” which the group submitted to the Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault. To inspire other girls that may feel down, feel a part of the sisterhood.
Cora also mentioned the club focuses on school issues. “I think the most important quality that a young woman can develop to lead effectively is assertiveness. Assertiveness isn’t being bossy or selfish, it’s learning how to communicate with others and express yourself in ways that help others to listen. I think a lot of girls are taught to be meek, or “nice.” We aren’t taught communication skills like expressing our opinions and needs. When a lot of girls DO try to speak up, some may come across as bossy or rude because they never learned how to word things in an effective way.” Cora had expressed.
All in all, Empowering Young Women has spent the last four years creating a safe and healthy environment for women across Riverbend. They only have more exciting plans from here, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
