South West Illinois News

In a world where young people often struggle to find their voice and make a difference, the Women's Leadership Initiative is providing a platform for success. This program, hosted by State Representative David Friess, pairs high school students with successful and influential women in their fields of interest. Through mentorship and guidance, these students are encouraged to take risks and embrace new challenges.

One shining example of the impact of this initiative is Hanna, a former mentee from Chester High School. With the support of her mentor, Rita Sickmeyer, Owner of EZ Travel in Sparta, Hanna created a food pantry called "Just for Jackets" to provide clothing, food, and other necessities for her fellow students. Speaking about her experience, Hanna said, "This program helped me do something amazing that I would have never had the courage to do before!"

Hanna's dedication and passion have not only made a difference in the lives of her classmates but have also inspired other students to follow in her footsteps. Mabry, a senior who joined the Women's Leadership Initiative this year, has continued Hanna's legacy by volunteering in the program and providing food bags to those in need over the Christmas break. Despite the challenges of studying for exams and applying for college scholarships, Mabry remains committed to this worthy cause. She proudly stated, "I plan to continue donating my time to this worthy cause."

The success of these mentees showcases the power of mentorship in shaping future leaders. By providing guidance and support, the Women's Leadership Initiative has created a gateway for personal and professional growth. These examples of leadership and service are a testament to the effectiveness of the program.

Through the Women's Leadership Initiative, young women like Hanna and Mabry are discovering their potential and making a real difference in their communities. As these mentees lead the way, they inspire others to step up and contribute to the betterment of society. With the continued support of mentors and programs like this, the future looks bright for the next generation of leaders.

To find out more, go to this link: https://repfriess.com/2023/12/21/womens-leadership-initiative-stories-of-success-mentees-leading-the-way/