Presenting the Young Ladies of
Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters Annual Gala April 28, 2018
“Embracing A Healthy Lifestyle”
3 John 1:2 “…I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” Empowered girls become empowered women who become leaders and contributors in our communities, country and the world. Embracing a healthy lifestyle is essential to truly being empowered and living a fulfilled life. This term we focused on eight key areas of life that we believe equate to living a healthy lifestyle and promoting a rewarding life. When we are balanced in these areas, our lives will prove to be fulfilled. The key environments are “Spiritual”, “Relationships”, “Network”, “Financial”, “Physical” (health), “Body” (fitness), “Self” and “Nature”.
“Embracing A Healthy Lifestyle” “Self” is intangible however it is affected by everything we encounter in life. You can’t see it but as we study who we are, we find out about our strengths, gifts and/or talents and we connect with the vision, mission and purpose for our lives. It is crucial that we strive for a healthy “self” because it determines our self-image and/or identity. It also determines the quality of people we attract into our lives. Being “Spiritual” is one’s connection to a higher source, love and self; for us this source is God or the Holy Spirit. It may also be referred to as energy, source or divine. These titles are what we use to describe a non-tangible experience with a higher being (God). “Relationships” describe the way in which two or more people or groups talk to, behave toward, and deal with one another. It’s a strong, deep or close association or acquaintance between two or more people that may range in duration from brief to enduring. Your relationship environment should be a place of inspiration, love, connection and joy. What is the impact you’re having on your relationships and they’re having on you?
A “Network” is related to a group or community of people you surround yourself with. Your network should add value to you and you provide value to the network. Your network should be designed to be a part of where you’re headed in the future and not tied to your past. If you are the biggest fish in your network, you need to change or expand your circle of influence. The “Financial” environment has to do with, not only money and the kind of currency you have, but it also has to do with the support, structure and systems you have in place. The way you think about your finances may require a mindset change for you to reach financial abundance. The steward you become in your finances will determine your financial freedom. Your “Physical Health” environment has to do with how well you take care of your overall health. Physical health is critical for overall well-being and is the most visible of the various dimensions of health, which also include medical, dental, emotional, spiritual, mental and environmental health. Some of the most obvious and serious signs that we are unhealthy appear physically. Addressing this dimension is crucial for anyone attempting to sustain overall health and wellness. Your physical environment includes addressing minor ailments or injuries and seeking care as necessary. One’s overall fitness (“Body”) includes physical activity (exercise), nutrition (a wellbalanced diet to include water), rest and sleep. Substances (specifically alcohol) that alter mood or other bodily processes should be avoided. Of course, we always endorse the absence of illegal drugs. “Nature” is a very important environment however it is often overlooked. Nature affects our bodies, as well as, impacts our relationships and emotional well-being. Having an appreciation for and communing with nature is one of the best ways to reconnect and reground the body. We benefit from exposure to green environments, nature and wildlife, both in relation to our physical and psychological well-being. Nature has a positive effect on our health and happiness.
A Message From Our Leader Greetings Family & Friends, We’re in our second year of new beginnings for Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters as a stand-alone non-profit organization, so I’m overjoyed that you’ve chosen to support us this evening with your presence. Each year I’m more humbled by the commitment and determination it takes to run programs such as Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters. God has been with me through every step and I could not be more grateful for His leadership and guidance. I have a team of Board Members and Advisors that support me in more ways than one can imagine, and I would not do this without them. I love and appreciate everyone who believes in and supports the continuation of GN2U & Lil’ Sisters. A heartfelt “thank you” to our parents who have entrusted your daughters in our care. God laid on my heart to address the elements of life that allow us to really love and value ourselves, and from that came the theme…“Embracing A Healthy Lifestyle”. As indicated on the cover, embracing a healthy lifestyle is essential to truly being empowered and living a fulfilled life, so this term we focused on eight key areas of life that we believe equates to living a healthy lifestyle and promoting a purposeful life.
GN2U participants and Lil’ Sisters…to reach your dreams and fulfill your purpose, you must take care of yourself “first”. Your very essence is affected by everything you encounter in life. As you continue to learn about “YOU” and truly comprehend your strengths, gifts and/or talents, you’ll connect with your vision, mission and purpose for your life. It’s imperative that you strive to embrace a healthy lifestyle; it will determine your self-image and identity. It will also be a factor in the quality of people you attract into your life. No matter what you’ve been through or you encounter in the future, it is important for you to be committed to loving yourself beyond measure. Our mission is to ensure you are equipped with information and knowledge that allows you to develop into the best person possible. Your decision to participate in Growing N2U or Lil’ Sisters is the beginning of your journey toward living a healthier lifestyle. I believe in you and I am convinced if you trust God as your guide and stay focused, you will realize your dreams beyond your imagination. It is my prayer that God continues to keep and bless each of you and that He infuses in you the determination and drive you need to be your very best self. You are destined for greatness! Remember, in order to experience all that God has for you, you must embrace a healthy lifestyle…. a healthy outside starts on the inside! With much love, Ms. Sharlynda
“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul opens.” – B.K.S. Iyengar
Our History The preparation of GrowingN2U started approximately fifteen years ago with ideas and thoughts being written down although it took several years before I understood why I was gathering information and researching the needs of young ladies through adulthood. The more I learned and grew personally, the more I had a desire to help young ladies become their best selves. I soon understood it was my life’s purpose to offer a program where girls and young ladies are groomed and developed to reach their greatest potential. Of course, this ministry was inspired by God and every aspect of learning incorporates Christian values and principles. The learning is offered through “Life Skills” sessions that utilize activities, lecture, experiences and opportunities many of the participants have not experienced before. This program consists primarily of class sessions; however, it also includes community service, field trips and college tours. In 2010, the first Debutante Program proposal was presented to my pastor and it was approved and thus it started in the church. The kickoff for this ministry was August 2010 and we started with approximately seven young ladies in the 12th grade. That year the program ran from August 2010 through March 2011. Conceding to the call of the Holy Spirit and being reminded of the purpose for the ministry, the program was revamped. With that, I revised the program and presented it as a ministry for girls 7th through 12th grades instead of a Debutante program. The program’s purpose is primarily to instill principles and values that will equip young ladies to make sound decisions while teaching them how to better understand who they are so that they walk in their purpose and have fulfilled lives. My pastor requested the name Naomi Circle and on October 1st the program was rolled out. The ministry was blessed with approximately ten committee members and most also served as facilitators. We also had facilitators who did not serve on the committee. Each year we’ve had approximately fifty participants show interest in participating; however, we’ve ended each term with anywhere from 23 to 29 participants. In 2013, it was laid on my heart to grow the program to be accessible throughout the community and Growing N2U was organized, filed and approved by the State of Texas as a non-profit organization. In August 2015, the Lil’ Sisters program was added for girls in grades 4th through 6th. We adopted the “zebra” theme because of the similarities between this graceful animal and humans. We share many attributes such as being unique, family oriented, nurturers, travel in herds and strive for excellence to name a few. We have also dedicated the “purple Iris” flower and the colors pink, purple and turquoise as our accent colors. The Lil’ Sisters’ flower is the “blue Iris” and the colors are cotton candy pink and baby blue. As of the end of this term, we have completed eight years in which time we have touched the lives of approximately 181 young ladies and girls. We look forward to serving even more in the years to come.
Founder/Executive Director/Leader: Ms. Sharlynda Bedford
Mission Statement
"Our mission is to grow and develop young ladies, grades 7th through 12th, by equipping them with life skills and imparting knowledge that will allow them to make better choices which will in turn avail them opportunities to reach their greatest potential, while also becoming young women God can use for the up building of His Kingdom."
Scriptures
Psalm 139:13 – 15 “For thou hast possessed my reigns: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.” Philippians 4:8-9 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do and the God of peace shall be with you.
Mission Statement “Our mission is to grow and develop girls, grades 4th – 6th, by training them in the ways of Christ; teaching them to love themselves and understand their worth; and equipping them with skills that will enable them to make wise choices.”
Vision Statement GN2U will equip younger girls with life skills that help them make wise decisions into adulthood that will ultimately allow them to live a life of abundance and prosperity while fulfilling their life’s purpose.
Scriptures Proverbs 1:5 “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
In Loving Memory of JaiShree Ausbrooks
January 8, 1993 – March 3, 2016 JaiShree was a participant in the pilot program for this ministry in 2010; then named CMBC Debs for Christ (later named Naomi Circle and now Growing N2U). JaiShree loved what this program stood for and those who participated in it. She desired to see young ladies taught, nurtured and developed into young women God can use. JaiShree believed in empowering young ladies by instilling confidence and self-esteem. Many participants not only looked to JaiShree as a role model but also as a friend; they confided in her and she built strong relationships with several of them. Although JaiShree graduated in 2011, she continued to be an active servant in this program. JaiShree served as a mentor and co-facilitated her first session during the term Aug. 2015 - May 2016 and she was looking forward to facilitating alone beginning in August 2016. JaiShree also assisted Ms. Sharlynda for five years. She did whatever was asked of her and many times she initiated serving and being of assistance. One of the greatest joys everyone looked forward to was seeing JaiShree at the door of the tea and gala. Her smile and glowing personality was the first face the guests met before entering the events. JaiShree and her service did not go unnoticed and she will never be forgotten.
Gone But Never Forgotten!
The Growing N2U family loves and salutes you; a life well lived!
Mistresses of Ceremony
Syrenthia Rice is the second eldest daughter of four to Ms. Tawanda Dabney and her father is Mr. Carlos Rice. Syrenthia is a 2014 graduate of DeSoto High School where she participated in Family Career and Community Leaders (FCCL) of America, as well as, the Spanish and book clubs. During her junior and senior years of high school, Syrenthia participated in Growing N2U (then Naomi Circle) and she now pays it forward through her continued service to the organization. Syrenthia states, “It is an honor and privilege to have helped choreograph Growing N2U’s dance this year and to work as the assistant to Ms. Sharlynda. God has truly blessed me. Syrenthia is currently a student at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, TX, where she is pursuing a degree in English with a concentration in writing and a minor in film studies. Syrenthia has experience in music performance, theater arts, and conducting social events on behalf of their campus sororities. Syrenthia aspires to be a film director and screenwriter. Syrenthia’s favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11, which states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. (NIV) Syrenthia wants to be known for her great personality and her talents; her motto for living is “treat others the way you want to be treated”.
Thank you, Syrenthia, for serving as our Mistress of Ceremony this evening. May God continue to bless and keep you!
Keynote Speaker
Attorney Leah Beverly- Greetings! I am honored and blessed to be able to meet all of you beautiful and intelligent girls/young ladies. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak with you and get to know you.
Dynamic, determined and passionate are just a few words that describe Chief Deputy District Attorney Leah Beverly. As one of the youngest prosecutors with the Clark County District Attorney’s Office in Las Vegas, Leah has prosecuted an astounding 1000 cases and counting since 2012, including 24 felony jury trials. A native of San Antonio, Texas, Leah aspired to have a law career that would forge a positive change within society. In 2008, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science. Upon graduating she attended law school at the prestigious University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. While there she served as president of the Moot Court Advocacy Program while also participating in clinics that helped gain temporary protective orders for victims of domestic violence. Leah also did internships at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, the Clark County District Attorney’s office in Las Vegas, and at the Atlanta, Georgia, City Solicitor’s office before graduating with cum laude honors in 2011. Currently Leah is a licensed attorney in both California and Nevada. As a CDDA she diligently prosecutes crimes that range from possession of a controlled substance to child pornography to homicide and arson. Several of the cases she has taken to trial have gained national media attention, including securing one of the first felony convictions within the state of Nevada, for the synthetic drug Spice and the widely-publicized evidentiary hearing for the State of Nevada vs. O.J. Simpson in 2013. With an astonishing conviction rating, Leah was promoted to her current position of Chief Deputy District Attorney in 2017. Leah has also appeared on several criminal law television shows as a legal commentator. As an esteemed prosecutor, she also gives time to aspiring lawyers by coaching high school students who participate in mock trials while also speaking throughout the Las Vegas area assuring the community of the D.A.’s office fight against crime. An accomplished Lawyer and pillar of her community, Leah Beverly continues to rise in the practice of law as an advocate of truth and social justice. Attorney Leah’s favorite scripture is Philippians 4:13; “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Her personal philosophy is “hard work is the key to everything in life”.
Thank You, Chief Deputy District Attorney Leah Beverly, for sharing this evening with us. Our prayer is that you continue to be blessed in your business and life’s pursuits.
Growing N2U & Lil’ Sister Participants Term 2017– 2018 (By Grade)
4th Graders Maddison Ayers Saliha Binns Kymora May 8th Graders Adrienne Black LaDasia Busby Kimberly Jones Mariah May Arianna Polius
9th Graders Cayla Harris Nayah Jenkins
10th Graders Kayla Jackson Kourtney Jackson
11th Graders Alexyz Bowen Ravyn Davis Jaila Whitaker
~~ PROCESSIONALS ~~ Entrance of Mothers
“Go Get It” by Mary Mary
Entrance of Participants
“Me Too” by Meghan Trainor
Participants Introductions & Creed Mistress of Ceremony Miss Syrenthia Rice
~~ PROGRAMME ~~ Opening Prayer Adrienne Black
Welcome
Kayla Jackson
Occasion
Arianna Polius
Lil’ Sisters Presentation Amber Bedford Marcia Thomas
Paying Homage thru Dance
LaDasia Busby Kimberly Jones (choreographer) “My Testimony” by Marvin Sapp
~~Time to Dine~~ Paying Homage thru Song
“Rise Up” by Andra Day Song by Lil’ Sister, Kymora May
Introduction of Speaker Mariah May
Keynote Speaker
Leah Beverly, Las Vegas, Chief Deputy District Attorney
Dance ~ Lil’ Sisters & GN2U Participants
Syrenthia Rice, Choreographer Assistants: LaDasia Busby, Kimberly Jones and Mariah May “Girls Run The World” by Beyoncé
Introduction of Past Participants Irma Washington
Reflections:
Sabrina Davis Taylor Williams
“A Celebration of Purity” Embracing a New Walk with GOD! Purity Pledge & Dedication Facilitated by Albany Harris
Entrance of Candidates
“Turning Away” by Bryan Wilson
Ceremony Participants LaDasia Busby Kimberly Jones Mariah May Arianna Polius
Ring Presentation by Mothers Father-Daughter Dance “Daddy’s Girl” by Dnyce
Acknowledgements/Presentations Ms. Gail Ausbrooks Ms. Sharlynda Bedford Ms. Irma Washington
Closing Remarks
Ms. Sharlynda Bedford
Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters Departure “Scars To Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara
(Please remain seated during exit song.)
Thank you for choosing to share this evening of celebration with us! We Love You!!
What do you dream about doing that would change your life and the lives of those you touch? What’s holding you back from fulfilling your dream? Would you like to remove the drama and/or get past the trauma you’ve experienced in the past? Being passionate about women being empowered to walk in their purpose and live fulfilled lives, I have made it my life’s mission to encourage, inspire, support and empower women through monthly workshops and one-on-one coaching. Our workshops are designed to help women sift through the fog and realize their greatest potential. Join us each month to discover how to gain clarity that will make way for you to pursue your dreams and live a purposeful life. Workshop Topics: Embracing Self-Love; Your Inner-Self Makeover; Becoming Your Best Self; Understanding Your Social Styles and so much more. Contact Sharlynda Bedford for more information regarding these workshops and/or private coaching. Phone: 972.757.2911 or Email: sharlynda@wurc180.com
Note: Sharlynda Bedford is a Certified Life Coach specializing in Girls & Women Empowerment
“Black Girls…. Always believe in yourself, even if nobody else does. Sometimes in life, you won’t always get the encouragement and support you desire, but don’t allow that to stop you from accomplishing your dreams. You’ve got to learn how to encourage yourself and be happy for yourself in spite of life’s disappointments. Everybody won’t be happy for you and that’s ok. Always see the best in yourself! Do it for YOU! Don’t focus on the negative; it’s only a distraction…Stay the course and stay focused! Be encouraged and do GREAT things. You’ve got this!” ~ Stephanie Lahart
Growing N2U…Your Black is Beautiful! You Rock! Love, The Whitaker Family
Jaila…Our Lovely Daughter
You are amazing as you are; Stronger than you know; More beautiful than you think; Worthier than you believe; and More loved than you can ever imagine. We are so proud of the young lady you have become. Follow your dreams and continue to walk in God’s footsteps. You are destined for greatness! Love, Mom & Dad
“Jaila Whitaker�
Illusions Track Club Coach Carver Davis Red Oak, Texas 469-358-0794
Diversified Marketing Promotions DMP 6409 Crystal Ct. Waco, TX 76712 254-498-7347
Game Day Football Program Magazine
Many blessings to my niece, Jaila, in all your future endeavors. Keith Willis/Owner/DMP
Congratulations Kimberly Jones & Maddison Ayers
Congratulations Maddison Ayers, GN2U & Lil’Sisters
Congratulations to Maddison Ayers from The Crew at Cookson
Passionate Leader of Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters Affectionately known as “Ms. Sharlynda”
(wife, mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt and great aunt)
Congratulations on “8” years of service to the young ladies of GN2U & Lil’ Sisters! Remain steadfast and continue to follow God one step at a time. Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying His presence. Walk by faith, not by sight, trusting Him to open the way before you. You have every reason to be confident because His presence accompanies you. Fix your eyes on God, the Author and Finisher of your faith, and all things will work together for yours and GN2U’s good. Be Encouraged!
We Love You!
Freeman, Marsha, Amber, Ja’Rod, Irma, Era, Crescentia, James, Maresha, Steve, Chris, Tristen, Adrienne, Jordan, Carmin, Shontrell, Christin, Sir Tyler, Lil’ Chris and Jordyn
Congratulations Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters May God bless this organization ABUNDANTLY!
Healthy Hair Studio, LLC 1116 Lavon Drive Garland, TX 75040
Congratulations Jaila!
To Schedule an appointment, contact Cheryl @ 469.298.2762 or www.healthyhairstudiollc.com Jaila, You Are Kind; You Are Smart; You Are Important!!! We are so proud to call you a child of God, daughter, sister, leader, advocate, student athlete and achiever! “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.� ~Matthew 5:16
Blessings from Your family and Friends! We Love You!!
Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters Congratulations On Completing Another Term
~ PARTNERS ~ Ms. LaTasha ~ TEA N TEE Party & Event Rentals Ms. DuWanda Thomas ~ Moments With Wanda Photography Kiona Robinson ~Videographer DJ Courtney
~ ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ~ Miss Syrenthia Rice ~ Mistress of Ceremony & Choreographer Attorney Leah Beverly – Las Vegas Chief Deputy District Attorney
~ Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters ~ ~ Board ~
Sharlynda Bedford, Founder/Executive Director Amber Bedford Louella Quezergue Irma Washington
~Advisors ~
Gail Ausbrooks Sabrina Davis Pamela Debose-Bowen Sucondra Holloway Syrenthia Rice Marcia Thomas
~ Facilitators ~ Albany Harris Crescentia Hawkins Jauron Isaac Jacqi Lathers Beverly Morris
Whether through prayer, time, talent or service we appreciate your contribution to Growing N2U & Lil’ Sisters!