Empowerment, resilience, and leadership are paramount in today’s rapidly evolving society. Recognizing the need to instill these qualities from a young age, the Academy of Our Lady of Peace (OLP), an esteemed all-girls Catholic school, continues to make significant strides. On a sunny Saturday morning, the scenic campus in San Diego will come alive with the spirit of empowerment as it hosts the annual Be-YOU-Ti-Ful Leadership Conference. Scheduled for April 20, 2024, this event invites middle school girls from grades 2 through 7 to a transformative journey of self-discovery and leadership.
The Be-YOU-Ti-Ful Leadership Conference is designed not just as a day’s activity but as a foundational experience that echoes OLP’s commitment to cultivating leaders. This event uniquely introduces young attendees to the principles of leadership and personal development, which are core to OLP’s mission. Through a series of interactive workshops, engaging discussions, and enjoyable activities, these young participants are immersed in an environment that celebrates and nurtures potential leaders.
At the heart of the conference’s structure is its innovative approach to peer-led mentorship. Eighth-grade students are given a chance to step into leadership roles as mentors to their younger counterparts. This approach not only enriches the experience for the attendees but also significantly enhances the leadership skills of the mentors. Under the guidance of OLP staff and seasoned student leaders, these young women are tasked with important roles throughout the day, shaping the conference’s flow and imparting valuable lessons to their peers.
Photo Courtesy: Academy of Our Lady of Peace
Jamie Flannery, Assistant Principal of Campus Life at OLP, expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming conference. “We are thrilled to inspire and nurture the next generation of female leaders,” she said. Flannery’s statement reflects the sentiment of empowerment that OLP aims to instill in its students and conference attendees alike. This ethos was recently highlighted during a community spotlight feature with Drew Schlosberg, where Flannery, alongside community member Nicole Rubio, discussed the impact of OLP’s initiatives like the Women’s Symposium and the Be-YOU-Ti-Ful Leadership Conference.
The event will kick off with registration at 8:30 AM. In keeping with the informal and inclusive spirit of the conference, a casual dress code is encouraged. The $25 registration fee includes snacks, a conference t-shirt, and a swag bag, ensuring that the girls not only leave empowered but also with mementos that remind them of their potential. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day’s events.
Those interested in participating or seeking more details can find information on OLP’s website or by contacting the admissions office via email. This opportunity is not just an event but a stepping stone for young girls to realize and harness their capabilities, fostering a community that is well-prepared to lead with confidence and integrity.
As OLP gears up to host yet another impactful Be-YOU-Ti-Ful Leadership Conference, the anticipation within the community is palpable. This gathering is more than just an annual event; it is a vibrant celebration of young potential and a testament to the power of proactive leadership education. By providing these young minds with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed, OLP continues to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Let us come together to support this noble cause and watch as our young leaders blossom into the visionaries of tomorrow.
Published by: Khy Talara
